For the Record: A Call to Action for Newbies

Dear newbies,

I joined the workforce circa 1999. Back then, jobs were hard to come by. It was before Google, Meta, and OpenAI.

There were 100+ channels, radio stations, newspapers, and outdoor media. Lots of noise and distraction!

Mobile phones had just hit the market. Blackberries and I-mates? Only C-suite executives had those.

Yet, we ONLY left the office AFTER our boss did. Not out of fear, but respect. We called friends and family ONLY during lunch breaks. We dressed sharp to look the part (Channel [v] was an exception!). We addressed clients with courtesy and STUCK to timelines, even if it meant all-nighters at the office. We avoided gossiping about our paymasters during office hours, out of sheer gratitude for being given a chance!

In a country of 1 billion people, there were many options.

Why Am I Telling You This?

Not to berate or marginalize your contribution, but to forewarn you. At a time when EVERYTHING except giving birth and breathing can be automated, you need to up your game. NOT us. We are the dinosaurs fading into oblivion.

And I know you can do it! Just stop wallowing in pity. Creating a language NOBODY apart from your tribe understands or cares to.

The Importance of Gratitude

Be grateful. Put your head down and work when in the office. Party on your own time. Even the FANG guys have pulled back on the free lunches. Life is going to get seriously tough for ALL of us if we don’t collectively pull up our socks and get the global economy going again.

I don’t care too much for politics, so I’m not going there. But keep politics out of the office.

A Journey Through Experience

As an Indian, a human being, and a professional with over 25 years in the corporate world—from big MNCs to startups, IPOs, and struggling companies—I feel like I’ve been there and done that. But as my ex-chief from Star TV, Sameer Nair, says, “Your best is yet to come.”

The Bible says, “Those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

Stay humble, but not foolish.

Embrace Change

Change is inevitable. Embrace it! Adaptability is your best friend. The world is evolving, and so should you. Learn new skills. Stay updated with industry trends.

Networking Matters

Build connections! Networking is crucial. It opens doors to opportunities. Attend events, engage on social media, and reach out to mentors. You never know where a conversation might lead.

Invest in Yourself

Take time to invest in yourself. Read books, take courses, and develop your skills. The more you learn, the more valuable you become.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the road ahead may be challenging, but it’s also full of opportunities. Stay focused, work hard, and keep your head up.

Happy weekend and life ahead!