World Colleges Information

A ‘like’ instead of a handshake, a ‘comment’ instead of a hug and a ‘post on the wall’ instead of that personal tête-à-tête – that’s how folks meet and greet in today’s digital era. And, this social media craze hasn’t leisurely over decades but has exploded on our generation, literally, revamping every spec of our society – even our very own corporate orb! With 2014 turning out to be a year for many firsts, here’s the latest trends that’s going to contour the social media and digital marketing horizon.

The visual treat:

The most engaging posts online are the visually arresting ones. Irrespective of the age factor, demographic or nature of your consumer, the concept of instantaneous optical engagement is the only means to seize attention and score the desired first impression. Supporting this idea is the statistic stating that 63 per cent of social media is made up of imagery and video content. The likes of Pinterest , Vine and Instagram has boomed and have risen as a medium for featuring info graphics, micro videos, visual posts will keeping it alluring and attractive, making it a dream launch pad for businesses with an edge and bounty of data Gearing to take over the social medium, 2014 will be the year of the visual marketer. So, keep it simple, sharp and catchy to gain visual engagement from your prospective consumer like never before.

Google plus will reign supreme:

Slowly yet steadily taking over the social media landscape, Google + is going to be bigger and better than ever this year.

With an ever swelling user base, the audience interested in social networking are slowly shifting base from the popular networks like Facebook. The latest concept of ad free environment introduced by Google+ has come as a big welcome relief to both the promoters as well as the punters. And, among those looking to market their product or business without shelling a penny, this medium has become an instant favourite.

As with Google+ every update by the marketer makes it to the follower’s feeds, where as the competitors allow only 6% of brand posts to make it to your consumer’s newsfeed. Building brand image and identifying likeminded consumer by the means of connecting to them on an interpersonal level has made Google+ all the more reliable and user friendly. And now, more than ever, with an upgraded search option and a swanky layout, google + is the place to take your business – right now!

Blogging, podcasting and online advertising continue to boom:

Unlike the common notion that blogging has lost its’ footing, blogging – the concept of curating content still remains one of the most influential platform to voice and place your product. With the trend of business blogging continuing in the same force through this year will undoubtedly be the hub to mark your social footprint. With Wordpress flaunting a 63 million blog base and Tumblr a whopping 100 million, it still is the place to create original content and place it front of your customers in the most easy and inexpensive manner.

As for podcasting, a social concept that can be defined as the multimedia file made available online for downloading to a portable media player, the next 12 months will be crucial. While only 5 percent of marketers have engaged in this medium at this point, a solid 24 per cent plan to the bandwagon

Mobiles to go mainstream

Think responsive design, interactive interface and compact yet instant promotion, taking over the social media with such promising feature, cellular medium is going to go massive this year. Connecting with your consumer by the means of a mobile application or via sms or email is the quickest and easiest way to reach out for any product or business. As customers constantly want to connect with their preferred brands and stay updated, the provision of customised content based on their individual behaviour is sure to enhance sale and brand loyalty. Cashing-in on this idea, investing on the possibility of personalising an app according to your customer’s needs and environment is fast picking pace when it comes to interpersonal marketing. Innovative ways to reach your customer via a mobile app is one the top marketing strategy of not just small start –ups but of massive world conglomerates as well.

Daily deals might die

A solid chunk of marketers, 80 percentage to be premise are signing out of daily deal websites this season. With no indication of retreating back to this once popular medium of daily deal marketing model,this sector is sure to take the plunge for the worst.Lack of returns and profits from this format seems to be the reason behind this slack. Marketers also believe that these daily deals concepts, though initially effective, don’t have any long term profitability privilege.With jumbled spaces provided to the products and businesses on these websites, short span of scattered attention from the consumer end has turned out to be a all-loss situation.

BUDDING MANAGERS
JUNE 2014 ISSUE

From running between crowded corridors, wrapping up endless assignments to piling on unquenchable daily chores and battling never-ending bouts of homesickness – the maddening lifestyle of a study -laden college student has become a pitiable state of affair.

With chaos, clutter and clamor becoming the three governing C’s of their lives, how do these future managers and corporate moguls-to-be find the time to evolve, learn and eventually fulfill their teenage dream? So, in an attempt to find the solution to this daunting question, we take a look at the perks of time management and its efficiency in resolving the mess.

We all wish for longer hours and more days per week at some point of our lives or the other. But the fact remains that 168 hours a weeks is all we are ever going to get. So, below are the strategies a management can use and apply to systematically cramp all facets of their lives.

Plan ahead

When you have more work and less time, planning ahead will be the handiest and most resourceful measure you would be taking. A clear account of your hours will not only save you a lot of time and confusion but will also give you clarity and enhance your efficiency. Jotting down a schedule will save your sanity and you might be surprised at the amount of work you can actually get done. Download an app to maintain your schedule on your phone or get yourself an electronic organizer or go the old- school way with a journal and a pen.

Start planning your days in advance, know your strengths and plan accordingly. Make a to-do list and keep jotting down all the assignments, engagements and deadlines as they come so that you don’t miss out on any event or task when you sit down to prioritize and allocate time.

Get your priorities straight

It can get increasingly overwhelming as the pile of things-to-do keep mounting during your days at the B-school. The only way to tackle it head-on is to slot these tasks into doable chunks. Allotting specific time for each chore will keep you on track and organized. Once you have the list of things to be done in your hand, start arranging these tasks order of urgency and importance by ranking them in order of 1-10. Knowing what needs to be done when will get you half way through. Maintain a code of uniformity while prioritizing, take all the facets of your life into consideration. Don’t miss out on your social engagement and family time and allot every second to studies and work obligations. The whole purpose of prioritizing is to strike a balance and get as much as possible done in the given time. Include even the most meager chore in your schedule – like showering, commuting, browsing, socializing, eating, shopping and even sleeping. By doing so, you would be keeping a clear tab of your time which would in turn keep you from getting overwhelmed, overworked and exhausted.

"Being prepared will be your only ticket out to the corporate paradise. Examine yourself, self-analyze and work your schedule around your assets and flaws."

Go easy on yourself

Everyone has a pressure threshold – pushing beyond it would simply mean increased anxiety level and decreased efficient outcomes. The quality of your work gets compromised when you overwork yourself – so go easy. Learn when to decline and take a step back. Learning to multi-task and combine commitments is another great way to manage time and can come as a big relief for weary students. Clubbing trips to the laundry room with a book reading session or using your time on the train to catch a power nap would help tackle two chores at a time. For the ever busy B-school student seeking such opportunities to merge their school, work and social lives to get more work done in the same slot of time would come as a big relief.

Take smarter breaks.

Reward yourself by regularly allotting time for things that you love to do. Pacify your pet peeve and attend to that guilty pleasure. Celebrate every mission accomplished. It might be an assignment well written on grade well scored. Take time out for a pat on your back. Constant self- motivation by the means of smarter breaks will help you to refill your energy and rejuvenate your thought process. Note down every little victory in your planner to reminisce later. Keeping a track of your progress will keep you focused. Remember, unlike your hazy undergrad days, everyone at your B-school is here to learn, excel and overtake you. It is going to a dog-eat-dog environment, where only the best would survive. Having shelled out a huge chunk of money on this dream management course, being prepared will be your only ticket out to the corporate paradise.

Examine yourself, self-analyze and work your schedule around your assets and flaws. Gearing yourself with such fool-proof plan coupled with the zeal to outshine will alone give you an edge over your peers and a nudge to the top.

BUDDING MANAGERS
JUNE 2014 ISSUE

Either by natural charisma or a sheer look of authority this person will easily establish a connect with his audience without having even uttered a word. That power comes from what they are wearing and how they are wearing what they are wearing. This first non-verbal expression / communication that emanates from a person exuding power, authority and calm was first termed ‘power dressing’ in the early 80s.

The 80s idea of power dressing included boxy suits with padded shoulders, double-breasted suits, dress shirts, briefcases and silk ties, the colour palette dominated by black and other dark shades. Much earlier than the 80s, in ancient Egypt in 1497 B.C., Queen Hatshepsut rocked in what can be termed as one of the first most successful attempts at power dressing. She is said to have sat on the throne like a man would - bare-chested, in a man’s kilt, false metal beard and a headdress adorned with cobras, usually worn by a male pharaoh. She may have tried to imitate the style of male pharaohs in an attempt to reinforce the seriousness of her office and win the confidence of the public, which by the way could be construed as having worked, for, she ruled the country for 20 years. In those 20 years, Egypt is known to have flourished. She remains the best known female pharaoh. Historians often refer to her pioneering style of not just ruling, but also dressing, the power and sway of which no other female pharaoh could own.

The most powerful personalities of the world are half their attire and half what they do. Take any example - Condoleezza Rice, Vlamidir Putin, Barack Obama, Michelle Obama, Angela Merkel, Marissa Mayer, Leila Janah… they own power suits that are not just head-turners but statement makers. These power suits give them a lead; their dressing imparts that kind of a power that makes the others shut up and listen.

‘Power dressing’ does a little more than helping feel and impart power. It makes the outfitted look current, professional, fresh and effortless. It portrays the person as efficient and as having the knack to cope with whatever is thrown their way. Power dressing is ‘shouting silently’. That means every piece of garment and accessory involved are huge contributors to the overall look. That being the case, the key is to make the dress-up look effortless. It shouldn’t look like you took forever to get dressed. By making it look effortless, you also make a statement that you do not waste valuable time in getting ready which could be used to engage in business.

It is the demand of the corporate world that you own at least one go-to-business outfit, be it for an interview, or a board meeting. This is the piece that would make all the difference to who you are and what you can. From the 80s, the expectations of the corporate world with respect to dressing hasn’t changed much – you are still expected to be dressed in complete formals – tie, watch and shoe shine in place. What has changed are the cuts and the fabric. Now there are fancier, figure hugging and more endearing cuts and fabric one can choose from compared to the boxy wool suits of the 1980s.

With power dressing, the most important thing to keep in mind is to keep your look well-tailored and personalised and not off-the rack. There are plenty of suits you can buy, but it is not necessary that they offer you the perfect fit. Get it re-fitted or better still, find a tailor who can make you a personalised suit from scratch.

To complete your outfit and personal brand message, the next step is to accessorise right – a formal watch, tie/jewellery, shoes perfect for the occasion and an attitude that spells competent.

You can power dress irrespective of who you are in an organisation; no matter who you are, the rules of dressing remain the same – skip the slouch, get the smarter and structured silhouette. From interviews to every day at work – power dressing is crucial. Power dressing is not just a style statement, it is characterisation; so go ahead and be choosy about what will define you when you say hello to the big world out there.

For interviews:

An interview being the first interaction with your future employers, what you wear will be the first score or no-score you will ever make with them. Despite all your abilities, what and how you wear it will determine whether you get the job or not most of the time. While clothing styles have undergone major changes over time, expectations of interview panels haven’t and for the same reason, power dressing for an interview will not be overlooked, in fact, it will be expected and appreciated. For interviews, shun designer wear but always always dress one or two levels above the role you are interviewing for. You will be surprised to see how well this trick works in your favour.

"choose outfits that are harmonious with your attributes (coloration, physique, personality), stature, goals and mission."

For every day other at work:

The overall rule in power dressing is ‘know yourself’. Understand what style, cut and fabric will work for your body type and your operating environment. Your clothing needs to help you blend in to a degree and yet, stand out to a degree. Stick to what works. Don’t wear clothes that keep tugging at you through the day so much that it keeps you from figuring out what you are at the table for.

Also important to know is the type of organisation you work for – are they extremely formal, do their clients expect complete formal attire, or are they creatively bent and would appreciate a surge of colours and takeover by high fashion suits? Track what kind of people you will interact with on a daily basis and how they react to your dressing. Great managers, CEOs and persons of influence have adaptable dressing styles that make them look like one among workers and a pack leader at the same time. They might pick a pair of blue denims and white linen shirts when talking to their creative team but will arrive in dark pinstripe suits while meeting their shareholders and board members. Either way, they will make it a point to stand out and flaunt their character.

Dark suits are not necessarily the last word in power dressing. While dark suits are considered the thing in formal settings, lighter tones can work as well if you have the confidence to pull it off, although you need to be in a position of greater authority to opt for the latter. If you are fledgling, you are better off in a darker suit with slight variations of your own should you want to be bold. With so much of dark going on in formal gatherings, it would be a great and acceptable idea to bring in colour with ties or scarves to stand out from the sea of black, blue and grey suits.

Although there are stereotypical wardrobes designed for “power”, you need more than the cliché. You need your suits to inspire, earn respect of fellow workers, those above and below you and, make you look and feel great as well. For every day at work, power suits are not sufficient. You also need appropriate ensembles and business casuals for more relaxed meetings and social engagements that are in line with the image that you have acquired through your power suit routine. Assemble a wardrobe that allows you total control of the visual messages that you are communicating. Marry off your key attributes with your clothing. Essentially, choose outfits that are harmonious with your attributes (coloration, physique, personality), stature, goals and mission. Pay attention to the tiniest of detail. For God they say, is in the details.

Now that your power wardrobe is ready, go bring on your power play.

BUDDING MANAGERS
JUNE 2014 ISSUE

Are the nasty comments slung by that shroud peer weighing you down? Are the insufferable insults snubbing your confidence and crushing your morale? Is the thought of going back to work scaring the living daylight out of you? If so, it’s time to hit back, fight those demons and face the reality that you‘ve fallen prey to evil pangs of corporate bullying

Being new at a foreign corporate environment can be both – an extremely nerve-wrecking as well as an exhilarating experience for any management fresher. It is therefore important to understand at this junction that nothing and nobody has the right to taint, disturb or interfere with these initial phases of experience and excitement Given the appalling statistics, be aware that bullying can be a possible practice in your new organization. So, whether it a taunt from a superior or an unwelcome personal comment by a peer– stepping up against bullying from the very start will be your best move to cope with the initial flutters of workplace ragging.

Early intervention

Anyone who creates a hostile environment at your workplace is a bully. Understanding that corporate ragging is a serious offense is the first step to combat this menace. According to a study conducted by Workplace Bullying and Trauma Institute (WBTI), about 35 percent of employees are victims of office bullying while 15 percent have witnessing it happening to fresher and others. Practicing personal courage is the most effective way to deal with office bullying. Knowing when you’ve been bullied is crucial – any form of aggression, hostility and act of intimidation or mockery is deemed as bullying.

Irrespective of the quarter it is slung from, that is, whether it is the boss, a team leader or a mere peer every gruesome act of bullying needs to be addressed immediately and eradicated at once. Use courage and self- confidence as bait. Be well- prepared and well read and also put a strong front. The best way to keep the bullies at bay is to make a solid first impression, your no nonsense attitude will send out a strong message.

Drawing the line

If it is an episodic flare-up or a manageable variety of bullying then marking your territory and defining your tolerance level should do the trick. Don’t over work to over please. Being made to do meager tasks or compulsory odd jobs like making coffee, buying breakfast, paying personal bills is also accounted as unreasonable ragging tactics. If you’ve been dumped with irrational amount of work then step up and say ‘no’, be vocal if you disagree or disapprove of the way you’re being treated. Dumped with work that is not part of your job profile is a form of bullying as well. Remember that being sincere and efficient at your work is all it should take to prove your corporate mettle. To avoid being misrepresented and discredited by a bully, tabulate and document your work and every move. Learning to step up when required will relieve you from overloading and might even earn you some respect from your peers, bullies and bosses.

Notify the authorities

If you have taken every possible measure and still failed to keep that bully at bay, then its time to make the call and notify the concerned authorities. Keeping the human resources department of your firm in the loop might help. These folks are usually pro-active and helpful. But if your bully is higher in the management hierarchy and manages to churn out numbers and results for your organization, there are chances that you’re complain will be deemed as a case of negative motivation. In order to avoid such a circumstance Produce evidence of your assault to build your case and prove your innocence. Be honest and provide examples of the abuse. Do not shy away from seeking assistance from your co-workers, managers and outside council, you will need a strong back up and support through the process.

Being a role model

Practicing the wise proverb ‘be the change you want to see’, a newcomer should always aim be a model employee. Set a good example at your workplace by being a good role model. Learning to appreciate, compliment and give credit can present an extremely pleasant and likeable front of your personality. Remain calm under pressure and always stick to deadline. Unfinished work and lousy presentation will project you as an easy target. Help your boss and your superiors to see you in a better light by being extremely professional in your every move. Be polite and courteous. Do not cross boundaries and take credit for someone else’s accomplishment. To come across as a team- player and a fair competitor use positive reinforcement while interacting with your peers.

If you are an unfortunate victim of corporate bullying, it’s about time you stepped up and took action. Though there isn’t a judicial law to combat this menace as yet, being the respectable and literate member of the corporate society that you are, you owe it to yourself and to all the 53 millions victims out there to rage a war and bring those bullies down, because at the end of the day ‘what we allow is what will continue.’

BUDDING MANGERS
JUNE 2014 ISSUE

Early this year, when folks back home feasted on pongal savouries, Ashok Raghuvaran had his cold coleslaw sandwich all by himself. This time, he wasn’t surrounded by the hullabaloo of festivities brought in by the rush of relatives and friends, he was alone. And while everyone around him carried on with their daily chores, he felt lost!

Why? Because, Ashok was far! far away from home, studying at a business school in London. In the past decade the exodus of students heading abroad to pursue their management degree has multiplied manifolds. Thanks to globalisation, students now can reach out to various international platforms without any hassle. The exposure to global corporate market and the scope to launch their career in an economically sound country is the prime stronghold that is luring these young MBA aspirants to pursue their master’s abroad. Though the preliminary challenges faced by a student is much higher than getting a Master’s back home, many consider that all the trouble would be worth it as they expect the potential returns to be umpteen . So, what does a student do? Go straight ahead and spend all those big bucks, fall prey to the homesickness, the culture shock and the unpredictability that comes along with flying out of your comfort zone to a land unknown?

The dicey dilemma:

With young brilliant minds migrating abroad to study and settle, Brain drain has now become a permanent fixture in our country. And this phenomenon still seems to be progressing in spite of the fact that in the recent year or two, India has witnessed a promising shift in its job tending sector.

Although the takers are increasingly sparse, it has definitely led the country’s corporate market to burst at its seams with business opportunities and job openings. Probably that’s the reason why experts from the commercial sector and big-wig hiring agents strongly opine that, given this changing scenario, the migration of possible future corporate curators of the country is immensely unreasonable and even unfair at various levels. Native minds belong to the native country they argue. But then again from a personal stand point it is only fair to allow the MBA aspirants to weigh and choose the option that suits them and their pockets best.

Planning your voyage overseas: Choosing an International B-school:

For the one’s looking to not only study but start a career abroad, an international degree would be the way to go. Along with an overall global experience, a foreign student is more exposed to the nature of businesses and corporate market on an worldwide level. Unlike a local student, the one’s flying out are pushed beyond their comfort zone - tried and tested by varying lifestyles, culture shock, language barrier and study patterns. Such international courses are sure heavier on the wallet, but many still prefer it as they believe it tends to globalize their resume, and hence, opening up a world of international job opportunities in the bargain. Adding to the pros, most of these colleges expect you to work part-time and make your own earning while you are a student - a facility not available in India. This requirement gives the student practical experience and an early sneak peak into the working class.

Along with expanding your horizons and enhancing your personality, a degree from a renowned university abroad also gives the student flexibility of course duration. A single master’s specialisation that might stretch for a period of two years in India can be squeezed into one at certain universities in a foreign country. So, many of those faced with time restrictions, can choose these universities with flexible study and time formats. Not just that, certain foreign facilities also offer additional diplomas along with their intensive one-year management course.

Laying your anchor at home – Choosing an Indian B-school

Now, that we’ve taken a detailed look at the prospects of studying abroad let’s turn around and head home to weigh out the positives of pursuing a degree at a local level. In today’s corporate as well global education scenario India is in par with all of its international counterparts. With colleges such as Indian Institute of Management (IIMs), the Indian Institute of Technology (IITs) and many others like it, India houses one of the best management colleges in the world. The exposure that a student is promised here is not just global but local as well. So, if you are planning to head home after acquiring a management degree abroad, choosing an Indian institute rather would be a more sensible choice. No other college in the world would give the kind of perspective and insight into the modus operandi of Indian market and fiscal status the way an Indian b-school can. And so, by the time they wrap the course from these Indian B-schools, the student will be absolutely equipped to launch an enviable management career right here at home. Also, these b-school campuses today flaunt an international infrastructure and an enviable list of ex-pert faculty from all over the world.

Let’s get statistical!

To further aid your decision let’s take a look at the numbers and get some serious perspective into where India and the mobile students in our country stand when it comes to migrating for higher management education. United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) dug deep and held a nationwide survey among graduates who pursued their Master’s outside their country of residence. The survey was named “Degree mobility” drawn by UIS (UNESCO Institute for Statistics), OCED (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) and Eurostat data collection. According to the results issued, India stands in the fourth position in the list of countries that has its students migrating abroad to study. Compared to the year 2000, the percentage has spooked to an alarming 83% in the past decade and more. With Asian students being the most mobile, India also scored the second slot in ‘top sources of international students’ for countries that invite such international mobile students. Back home, researchers from Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Bengaluru, conducted a similar survey but concentrated specially on migration to European and North American countries and found more alarming answers – a stunning 256% hike in migrating students. But slamming the above claims and presenting paradoxical results, Higher Education Statistic Agency and Times Higher Education stated that there has been a 85% drop in Indian applications to colleges abroad. The reason cited for this decline is attributed to the global financial crisis, the depreciating rupee value against major world currencies like US Dollar and UK Pound.

Also, many of these countries have recently tightened their post-study work policies following the immigration crackdown. Though the picture projected based on these survey is unclear, the verdict pronounced by International Enrolment Surveys (IES) report that more than half of the mobile Indian students study on overseas education loans and are driven by the strong belief of potential return on investment in terms of promising post-study career growth.

Countries to consider:

With the alternative for migrating abroad emerging as a strong contender, let’s take a look at which countries would provide the best bargain alongside flaunting a strong academic credential. All the studies conducted regarding this by UIS, ASSOCHAM (Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India) and Institute of International Education (IIE) has placed United States as the top contender in the list of countries that has the highest flow of immigrating Indian student. US has been the most preferred destination with a whopping 53 % lead. What lure them are the valuable and prestigious academic credentials provided by top-notch B-school such as Harvard Business School, Stanford Graduate School of Business, University of Pennsylvania, Columbia Business School and the likes. The first runner-up with 17% of students flying there is United Kingdom. But due to their recent revision in post-study employment policies the numbers have started plummeting. In spite of this backslide one can’t help but acknowledge the fact that UK houses one the crème de la crème of B-schools in the world such as London Business School, Warwick Business School under the University of Warwick and Manchester Business School.

The next in the popularity list is Australia followed closely by contenders like Germany, Canada and France. Australian Graduate School of Management (AGSM), Melbourne Business School (MBS), Australian School of Business (ASB) – University of New South Whales are a college worth considering. Though there was a minor clamp down on citizenship and student immigrations laws couple of years ago, the country is again witnessing a renewed interest according to the latest enrolment statistic issued by the Australian Higher Education Sector. The reason is the revised and streamlined visa- processing schemes by the country’s immigration department. The latest countries to join this bandwagon are Sweden, Denmark Singapore and Italy, so if the top five countries don’t seem to fit the bill for you then consider the new entrants, who knows you just might get lucky.

The closing checklist:

Getting down to some serious business, the paperwork and the formalities that comes along right from the go-ahead to the time you board your flight is extensive and has to be done flawlessly. First comes first, once you have finalised on the destination, look out for the next closest date to appear for your GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) exams. There are various tuition and learning centres that offer both full-time as well as crash courses to help you prepare for this management test. Once, that is taken care of start the application process after thorough research and consideration. All the top-rung universities from the fore mentioned countries have very similar eligibility criteria. To be even considered for admission most of the top colleges in the US and UK primarily look at the GMAT scores.

After being shortlisted based on how you fare in this exam, the "The latest countries to join this bandwagon are Sweden, Denmark Singapore and Italy, so if the top five countries don’t seem to fit the bill for you then consider the new entrants, who knows you just might get lucky." second pre-requisite for MBA courses in particular is work experience. A three year of bachelor degree along with an impressive and consistent academic record is what will ultimately secure the seat. As mentioned earlier, for professionals looking to score the edge over the rest, an intensive one year management course would be apt and most of the time might not require a GMAT score for admission.

In a gist

The recruiters don’t really care about where your degree came from, not all of them at the least. All that will concern your hiring manager will be the quality of your personality, your compatibility to the job in question, your managerial skill sets and that ‘spunk factor’ that will thrust you above the rest. However, every student is unique and so are their requirements, so, get curious and research on. Get in touch with universities abroad as well in the country, weigh your options, finances and personal preferences. Talk to various alumni and current students about their experience. Join online management forums and get busy interacting with aspirants just like you. With the trajectory of your career graph at stake, ask as many questions as possible and remember, at the end the choice is really up to you, it your call to either soar high or stay grounded.

BUDDING MANAGERS
JUNE 2014 ISSUE

Whether it’s a barbeque in your backyard or a quick trip cross – country, you know you deserve a breather. With the first half of 2014 spent in the hustle bustle of corporate corridors, it’s time to put on that fedora, pack your summer bag and slip away for that well-deserved holiday to rejuvenate and recharge your body, mind and soul.

After a maddening dash through the first six month at your workplace, every overworked corporate newbie gets the surge to take a break. So, whether its your limited funds or lack of long leave, we’ll show you how to squeeze a quick holiday or a mere weekend away. The depressing statistic from the vacation deprivation study by a prominent travel agency in the country slated Indians workers as the 4th most vacation deprived folks globally. Deeper analysis into the matter revealed that, these workaholic corporate employee procrastinate vacations due to the lack of time, plan or money. Also, given the dog-eats- dog environment and performance/ deadline oriented work pressure many consider holiday as luxury instead of a necessity.

Many therapists dealing with patients complaining of work-related stress and depression opine that a quick weekend getaway is a must for employee with high-pressure job. A holiday not only provides the much needed relaxation but also, recharges your mind and eventually boosts your performance. So, here’s what you should be doing to sneak in tat perfect holiday

Plan, plan and plan!

Not just a cost effective, but planning in advance is sure to save you the last minute hassle.

IF it is more than a weekend getaway get your official paperwork for leave application processed way in advance, inform your bosses and superiors beforehand and keep your peers and team members in the loop about your plan. This move will not only reflect your commitment towards work but also avoid any last minute cancellations. With that out of the way, zero in on the destination, keeping it closer to home would be a better idea, as it will save you not only the cost of flying out but also the time spent on travelling. Get quotations on tickets and lodging prices from various websites and corporate travel agents to get the best offer of the season. If heading by road, be sure to service your tow and read your raod maps thoroughly. Read up on the location – the local attraction, weather conditions, local cosines, culture to equip yourself better and avoid any last minute surprises.

Pamper yourself!

Remember, you are on a holiday. So, relax, and let yourself go! Soak in the sun; enjoy the serenity of being away from the hustle-bustle of deadlines, extensive presentations and endless boardroom clatter. Treat yourself to a mid- morning soothing spa session with that special someone on a relaxing dip in the ocean. In the evening head out and enjoy a heady night out as you let your hair down and swirl over the dancef loor. For those who would rather stick to the calm tranquility – a quick shopping spree and a rooftop dinner would be just what the doctor ordered.

Relish dining out!

Living the cosmopolitan lifestyle in our urban concentrate jungle might leave you with less or no time to spend with your family or your inner circle of friends. So, for those special folks you’ve brought along to spend your getaway with – dine out with them! Exploring local cuisines and delicacies either from a kiosk on the pavement or a lavish eatery, on such getaways will not only encourage intimacy but also buy you that much needed personal time. Food is known to burns bridges and brings people closer. So, dress up, pop that bottle of bubbly or make reservations and surprise your taste buds - as your finally find the time to not just treat yourself but also the ones who put up with your tantrums and maddening lifestyle.

Don’t pack your work baggage!

First things first – turn off that mobile phone, disconnect your internet connection and go off the radar. Being constantly on the phone or your laptop is not just disrespectful but also defies the whole purpose of your holiday. Avoid any and every conversation that would lean towards your business or workplace. Don’t babble about your latest client or that new project that you’ve been recently scored – as firstly its not a business trip and also you’d be ruining not just yours but the holiday spirit of those around you as well. Leave your work baggage at home before you start, work will still be there when you get back – you enjoy and escape into serenity while you can.

Enjoy the ride back home!

Now, that your holiday coming to a close, make sure to pack your bags way ahead of check out time and enjoy yourself. Every minute counts, so either it be flight ride back or the road your plan to – enjoy the trip back home. Buy collectibles and souvenirs from the local shops to mark your getaway, click lots of pictures and make few local friends. Keep the conversation around you light and fun and recount your experiences as you battle to fight the on-coming post holiday blues. Once home try and put off any official work till you unpack or even till the next day if possible. Savor your final hours of holiday and before you know it would be time to head out again.

BUDDING MANAGERS
JUNE 2014 ISSUE

Suicide is the second most common cause of death in young adults. The incidence and figures are alarming. Young males are found to be 3 -5 times more likely to kill themselves than their female colleagues. Most people who attempt suicide are ambivalent about killing themselves - frequently what they seek is to put a stop to unbearable feelings or a situation that seems intolerable. Someone who is suicidal may well be feeling frightened, trapped, hopeless, helpless, confused and distressed - and desperate to escape from his or her suffering rather than actually wanting to die. While it is true that having thoughts about suicide are very common, the thought will probably cross the mind of the majority of people at some point in their lives but when a student puts an end to his life, it is not only disturbing, it points to a problem – the reluctance of the young to take problems in his stride and the deteriorated state of communication the young have with their caretakers.

One of the leading causes of suicide universally is depression. Although most depressed people are not suicidal, most suicidal people are depressed. Over 60% of people who die by suicide suffer from major depressive disorder. Depression is most of the time, unrecognized and untreated.

The leading causes of student suicides

For some, suicide could be a following-act post a period of depression while for others it is likely to be an impulsive act, triggered by a traumatic experience, like the death of a loved one, or by a relatively insignificant event which may be seen as the ‘final straw’. Other feelings and experiences that have been known to contribute to feeling suicidal include:

Lonelines:

Loneliness experienced by students especially when they move away from home into hostel settings can develop into a consuming feeling that there is no one for them and that no one will really care or notice whether they are alive or dead. These people will miss family and friends in a new setting and feel alone and isolated.

Feeling hopeless and helpless:

The student may start feeling that no matter what he/she does, nothing seems to get better and that no one is forthcoming with help.

Feeling worthless:

Every phase of life brings newer challenges. In new settings, even minor challenges can seem to students to be growing out of proportion and out of the scope of their ability to manage. They will feel caught and start feeling that they cannot possibly make any difference to the world, especially when faced with heavy competition. The feeling can lead them to having low self-esteem. Even commendations will start looking made-up to these people.

Depression:

Anything can trigger a bout of depression in a person. Teens have varied perceptions of themselves because of the different settings they are exposed to as they grow. Their minds can assimilate a lot of things faster and for the same reason, they also imbibe negativity faster. This will lead to them having deeply negative feelings about the world and its connection to their lives.

It is possible for a teen to be depressed despite all his talents and achievements. The depressed also often ignore those who care deeply for them. Their internal perception of themselves and their assumed problems are graver to them.

Inability to cope:

A college student’s life while being very colourful can also be stressful. Youngsters find coping with the new life difficult for two reasons – their hormonal development and managing of expectations. Young adults are at a point where they feel overwhelmed by the expectations placed on them by parents, teachers and their immediate society; and the responsibilities they feel as a person reaching adulthood. Being overwhelmed can start making even a simple class project look unmanageable and can lead to a melt-down. Many students fail to cope primarily out of fear of making mistakes and because of their lack of experience. When faced with problems in different areas of life at the same time - for example academic problems, a family crisis and, the ending of a relationship - the sense of pain may be overwhelming and could weaken the coping threshold. Instances of ragging or harassment also contribute to the victim considering suicide as a way out of the pain, agony, embarrassment and humiliation.

When plans fail :

Expectations of oneself and goals a person sets for himself are a predominant part of his life. When people plan their lives, every instance that occurs is taken personally. Not being able to settle down into the college atmosphere, a sudden financial catastrophe at home, break-up of an important relationship, not achieving academic goals, etc. can result in the student feeling inadequate, ashamed, unloved and, a failure. Such feelings can induce inappropriate levels of stress and trigger a mental need to get away from it all, cultivating feelings of suicide in the student.

Falling apart under stress is more commonly noticed in students who are usually high achievers. Stress undermines even a bright student’s ability to attempt things differently. They start feeling an endangerment to their identity. Stress build-up around project submission and examination dates also are known to increasing drive students to attempt suicide.

Anger:

Suicides are sometimes an act of vengeance. Hurt and pain take avenging form to punish the causative agent – the person who gave them the pain. The suicidal feel the way to make the other person realise and repent for their mistake is to give them something unforgettable. They feel a need to reach as much pain to the other party as they themselves received from them.

Alcohol and drugs:

Suicides instigated by addictions are gaining ground. Suicides under the influence of alcohol or drugs, by impulse are also more common than the ones under cases of addictions. The vulnerability to attempt suicides are higher under the influence of drugs for, drugs dim a person’s cognitive abilities.

Difficulties in relationships :

New-found personal relationships such as a boy friend or a girlfriend can sometimes put undue pressure on a student. Because the relationship is new, the ability of the partners to assimilate the one another fully will be lacking. Everyone’s point of reference for any relationship is the people who are closely involved with them – mostly parents and siblings. Teens often lack the understanding that their new partner is a person different and that the same rapport, love, care and concern that existed in one’s family do not apply here.

A history of mental or physical illness:

Students who have a history of physical or mental illness find it easier to break in the event of stressful situations, their stress compounded by their ailment. When ailments block efficient functioning, it leaves the student feeling confused and powerless.

Risk indicators

As with CPR, it is vital for everyone to have an understanding of trigger points for suicide and the most generic indicators of the suicidal.

These indicators include:

Guilt, shame or uncontrollable rage

Thoughts of self-destruction and being expressive boy about them Vagueness Depression or trauma Detailing a suicide plan Talking about feeling suicidal Substance abuse

Behavioural changes: ranging from increasingly risk-taking to self-destructive actions Giving away of prized possessions Loss of a relationship Academic failure Feelings of humiliation and not receiving love and respect Lack of interest Low self-esteem Suicide prevention

In most cases, only the suicidal are aware of what is coming next for them. They usually plan the event for days and months although in some cases, it is a moment of madness, thoughtless and recklessness. The first step to suicide prevention is to examine one’s own feelings and views and seek help. To overcome suicidal thoughts and action, the victim needs to find someone they trust and confess to them their problems and feelings. It could be a friend, parent, relative, teacher or a psychologist.

Because the suicidal may be nervous and impatient, they will also feel that people they talk to do not understand the depth of their problem. It is also because of the fact that not everyone is mature, smart or intelligent enough to handle someone who is on the verge of bringing upon himself and others, a very big tragedy. Not everyone is born to be a good counsellor and friend. The way out of this vicious circle is to keep looking till a reasonable person is found and the problems shared. Most young people do not share their problems with others for fear of being not understood, laughed at or ridiculed. That is probably the second worst thought a suicidal person usually has, the first being considering suicide as an option to escape.

For the suicidal

A suicidal crisis is temporary. You might feel that your pain and unhappiness will never end but reality is that, problems however severe, are only temporary. Taking your own life does not make the problem go way. Suicide is a cowardly act. It is the refusal to be strong and fight for what is yours. It is running away. It is being spineless. During a suicidal crisis, being logical and staying calm are the last thing on the victim’s mind. But those are the only two things that can keep you alive. Do nothing about whatever you are feeling. Give it time. Let it go. Killing oneself has never resolved anything anywhere anytime. By killing oneself the problem doesn’t go away. You will only end up adding more complications to an existing uneasy situation.

It is always easy to crumble and give up in the face of opposition. But that is not how some of the world’s most celebrated achievements were made.

If every person killed himself over every problem, then the world would be barren. There is only a very small difference between pain and glory. The difference is called guts.

Life isn’t easy - neither for you, nor for anyone else. Take every day as it comes, one day at a time; or one concern at a time or even one hour at a time.

How to handle a suicidal person

Suicidal people are often at the verge of their patience. Their emotions may range from angry to moody, funny and childish but dangerously destructive. Persons who come face to face with the suicidal need to stay calm and in control.

It is necessary for the counsellor to take control early on in the conversation. If the counsellor feels that the person cannot be handled by them, they need to seek professional help to aid the suicidal person.

The four keywords to remember while dealing with a suicidal person are

The aftermath of a suicide

Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. The permanence of the solution shuts down the lives of many others. When a youngster commits suicide, it shakes up those close to him, especially the parents. It turns their world upside down. They never recover from the shock even after years pass. The shock of a child’s suicide has in some cases even driven the parents to suicide.

To the dead, dying may seem to end it all. The real problem however never goes away. In addition, the suicide opens up a barrage of problems for the ones alive. Family, friends and acquaintances face legal interrogation. Visits to police station, the wait in front of the morgue, receiving the autopsied body, signing of papers, answering investigators, being socially shunned, being at the receiving end of society gossip pretty much make up the rest the life of those parents who survive the casualty. There is nothing more heart-breaking for a parent than receiving their beloved child’s body from the morgue and having to bury their beloved. Years may pass, but the stigma attached to the family of the one who committed suicide never fades. The gossips never stop.

Probable reasons of the suicide never stop from being debated. The real truth behind the death is never really found out or known. Suicide is such an undignified way to die.

In conclusion

Suicide is being identified as one of the most leading causes of death alongside cancer, AIDS, cardiac arrests and accidents. The number of deaths by suicide can be stopped only if we as a society take charge and promise to look out for one another.

BUDDING MANAGERS
JUNE 2014 ISSUE

Although the advertising industry has changed dramatically, most college programs in marketing continue to offer a classical marketing curriculum. Many have simply added an additional elective or two on digital or interactive marketing and on international marketing instead of redesigning the requirements and courses necessary to obtain a marketing degree. In many college programs for marketing majors, the focus is often on the manufacturing business with some emphasis on global markets instead of on the advancement of marketing in the Internet and technology spectrum.

Marketing courses typically offered at colleges, for example, currently include the following:

Principles of Marketing
Consumer Behavior
Marketing Research
Business Marketing
Personal Selling
Marketing Management and Strategy
International Marketing

This is usually supplemented by a subject on Advertising and marketing, online marketing, e commerce and social networks. All this needs to change and change quickly because…

In today’s world of online advertising, “techies” and computer gurus are leading the way, not classically trained marketers. Just as digital technology decimated the newspaper industry and radically changed the business model for the music, book, television, and film industries, the assembly line of the ad production process has been obliterated.

Managing advertising in the realm of the Internet requires a new set of skills. Strategic thinking and a grasp of the creative side have always been important in advertising, but now an understanding of the complex, technology-related issues has added a new element to the skill set mix. Technical knowledge is an essential requirement in building e-commerce models.

Companies are expecting individuals with marketing degrees and experience to also have the technical skills. Students at technical schools are taught computer skills, whereas those receiving a university marketing education are taught theories and processes of advertising and marketing. Courses combining both these are not offered in traditional marketing degree plans. In the past, those educated at technical schools were hired to fill the techie positions in the advertising and marketing fields, while classically-trained marketers would rise to leadership positions that included overseeing a technical staff. In the fast-paced digital world of the 21st century, technically-educated students with marketing knowhow are slowly ascending the ranks, and experienced marketers are rapidly becoming dinosaurs.

The need for technical expertise is sending ripples of change throughout the advertising industry. People who were not initially attracted to advertising, such as MBAs and computer science majors, are entering the field. Some of the larger agencies have initiated training and management development programs to recruit talented young people who might otherwise be tempted to enter another field requiring their technical expertise.

Agencies are also bringing in people from the outside to lead digitally. For example, the Creative Director, a senior level position in an ad agency’s organizational structure, used to be the person with the most experience and creativeness. Today,this person is more likely to be the one with the most technical skills, the least advertising experience, and an average sense of creativity. Even the physical office space of the new-age advertising agencies is being rearranged: no longer are people isolated in offices and by long hallways where different disciplines never cross paths. In the new digital agencies, socialmedia people, creative’s, media planners, technologists, and user-experienced individuals are seated next to one another at modular desks. One progressive-thinking CCO (Chief Creative Officer) went so far as to change his title to that of Chief Social-Media officer!

Overall, both the advertising industry and the educational system have utilized a functional view of marketing’s processes and procedures and have operated or taught accordingly. Perhaps because of a combination of disintermediation by the Internet, economic considerations, and corporate blindness, many have not identified the emerging trend of integration of all disciplines in the marketing process. For example, traditional advertising media include print, radio, and television. Marketing educators continue to teach the advantages/disadvantages, appropriateness, and the most effective strategies for the use of each platform. Traditional advertising agencies have separate print and broadcast (radio and television) divisions, and to these companies, an “integrated marketing plan” often means simply using both divisions. In line with a functional view, the Internet and online advertising now constitute the fourth media channel or platform.

Today, the realm of digital has changed the entire landscape of advertising. An online digital platform is not just another advertising channel to be added to the traditional three (print, radio, and television). It is a “mashup,” a blending of all channels that requires a heavy emphasis on technical skills and that should be taught as such. This mashup of channels and the evolution of computer technology have made those individuals who can maneuver quickly to produce ads and campaigns the most valuable players. Real time response is the future of marketing. Those who use blended media and the latest technological tools to produce the fastest and easiest to view/read/or listen to communications will lead the industry.

Consumers today have a complex relationship with media, and the new challenge is how and where to engage with them.

The future is Digital, the platform is available, a wide range of career opportunities await you.

BUDDING MANAGERS
JUNE 2014 ISSUE