Raghavan N.’s Post

The biggest highlight of my career is I never settled at a single organization or role. I studied Chemistry at St. Stephen's College, Delhi, only to realize later that I don't see myself in labs. So, I started all over by learning cases in 2nd year and picked boutique consulting post my graduation. This time I enjoyed solving real problems but the hours, the #stress, and let's just say the ethics of the organization didn't gel much with mine. Later, in my mid-20s as I faced a quarter-life crisis, I decided to pivot completely to advise the Government of India. This time, I enjoyed the role, the ecosystem, and the mission at large- I grew the most in my 20s during this time as I worked with senior leaders and got a chance to lead a team for the first time. After a successful stint with Indian Gvt., I left it to land in the most uncomfortable role in my 20s- this time learning statistics, finance, business, and traveling internationally also during my #MBA. I learned immensely and eventually accepted to work with BCG as a management consultant. Then at BCG, I learned how to build powerful conjectures- supported by strong evidence. Just as I became comfortable with BCG, I was offered to work as a foreign policy advisor in Dubai. My world came full circle with public policy, #internationalaffairs, and consulting practice all coming in handy to my craft. I worked with an internationally diverse team while learning how politics, foreign affairs, and policy all work together! I eventually left my well-paying advisory role to start all over again to now become an entrepreneur to move the needle on the ground. I was done advising and talking. I wanted to #walk the talk finally. --- The thing is my father has worked for a single public sector unit throughout his life. It made sense in his time when opportunities were limited. I, on the other hand, haven't ever felt like marrying to one idea, or one sector in my life. For me, life is just too short to do just do a few things. We as humans have evolved from traveling unknown #territories, being uncomfortable, and experiencing unknown emotions- this is our core nature. It is not in our nature to get stuck. So, next time when you are stuck, know that you are not alone. You can learn and network to reinvent yourself to experience unknown territories. We are homo sapiens, not trees. You are built to move around!

🌟 Navigating the Road Less Traveled : My #Career Journey so far 🌟 Reflecting on my career, I see it as a mosaic—a series of tales, leaps, and unexpected turns that together tell a story of resilience, transformation, & purpose. From the early days of collecting business articles & advertisements on a two wheeler to driving strategic innovation on a global scale, each chapter has added a unique color to the bigger picture. 🔹 Foundation in #Resilience: My journey began humbly as a Research Analyst for The Indian Express, where I would travel over 80 kilometers daily on a two-wheeler to gather insights from local businesses. This role wasn’t just about collecting information; it was a lesson in ground-level resilience. Meeting entrepreneurs in the manufacturing and automotive sectors, I witnessed first-hand their grit, their determination to succeed against the odds—qualities that I strive to carry forward even today. 🔹 A Lesson in #Balance— Surviving Night Shifts and Learning Empathy: My career took a sharp turn with Citicorp and later, GE, where I worked through countless night shifts. Those long, quiet hours taught me the importance of balance and patience. The empathy & humor shared among colleagues became essential lifelines. It was a reminder that even in the dead of night, support and camaraderie are what keep us going. I learned that true strength lies not only in delivering results but in creating a supportive environment for others to thrive. 🔹 Seizing #Opportunities in Unknown Terrain: A defining chapter in my career was a turning point with Hitachi Consulting, where I was assigned to Riyad Bank in Saudi Arabia to conduct Business Process Re-engineering (BPR). Alone in a foreign land, I embraced the unknown. Like a navigator charting new waters, I discovered that cultural understanding and local wisdom are as essential to transformation as any technical skill. My mentors there became like family, guiding me not just professionally but personally. This experience transformed my approach to business & opened my eyes to the power of diversity and human connection. 🔹 Building a #Legacy, One Block at a Time: As I established the CRM and Master Data Management practice at Hitachi, I often saw myself as a craftsman laying bricks, creating a structure from the ground up. Over time, this “building” became a thriving team that won 50+ awards & over 200+ projects, earned recognition globally. To this day, I draw inspiration from the resilience & passion of that team. And as a leader, I learned that success is not about holding onto greatness but empowering others to build their own. 🔹 Adapting to New #Horizons— Embracing AI & Innovation: In recent years, I've embarked on an exciting journey into AI, ML, and IoT—fields that represent the future. Leading initiatives like the Centific Premier AI Hackathon, where we cultivate the next generation of tech innovators, I see myself not just as a leader but as a gardener, contd in comments....

I Lost My Job Before I Even Started It– and It Turned Out to Be the Best Thing That Happened to Me! 🤷♀️ Here's how the story goes: Two years ago, I moved to the UK to pursue my MSc in International Management at Imperial College Business School. As soon as I arrived, I realised that the job market was more challenging than ever. I questioned my decision, and felt the pressure to secure a job right away. After 30+ applications and a few case interviews, I finally landed a full-time consulting role in February 2023! It felt like an incredible relief and a major accomplishment. . But then…the setbacks began.👊 . Due to the economic downturn, my start date was delayed—not once, but TWICE. Eventually, the company revoked my offer entirely. I was crushed, and in that moment, it felt like all my dreams had shattered. I was back to square one but I didn’t give up. I picked myself up, and kept moving forward! Looking back now, I realise that the consulting job offer played a purposeful but limited role in my career journey. How? 💪 It kept me going when things got tough: Halfway through my MiM program, I had to return home to India for 3 months due to an unexpected illness. I was devastated to miss out on so much and was even advised by some to drop out. But knowing I had a job offer waiting gave me the motivation to go back to London and finish my course. 🚀 It led me to a startup – something I never expected: Today, I’m working at a startup—something I never thought I’d do! I used to chase brand names and titles, but this experience has opened my eyes to a whole new world of learning. 💼 It helped me rethink my career goals: Letting go of the Consulting rat race was unexpectedly freeing. Now, I’m in the Tech industry, learning things I never imagined, and enjoying every bit of it. Lesson: Sometimes, what feels like a setback is actually a redirection to something better. Embrace the “Burnt Toast Theory”—the idea that a small “disaster” can open doors to unexpected, even better opportunities. Do not hesitate to reach out to me at [email protected] or via DM if I can be of any help! #LinkedInLessons

🎓 Choosing Your Path: Big vs. Small Companies After Graduation 🎓 As you embark on your post-graduation journey, one of the key decisions you'll face is whether to target big corporations or small companies for your first job. Both options offer unique opportunities and considerations: Big Companies: 1. Brand Recognition: Big companies often have established brands and reputations, which can provide a strong foundation for your career and enhance your professional credibility. 2. Structured Programs: Many large corporations offer structured training programs, mentorship opportunities, and career development paths, providing a structured framework for growth and advancement. 3. Resources and Benefits: Big companies typically have ample resources, including robust benefits packages, access to advanced technologies, and opportunities for travel or international assignments. 4. Networking Opportunities: Working in a big company exposes you to a diverse network of professionals, industry leaders, and potential mentors, expanding your professional network and learning opportunities. Small Companies: 1. Entrepreneurial Experience: Small companies offer a dynamic and entrepreneurial environment, allowing you to wear multiple hats, take on diverse responsibilities, and make a tangible impact on the organization's growth. 2. Learning Agility: In small companies, you may have more opportunities to learn quickly, adapt to changing environments, and gain hands-on experience across various areas of the business. 3. Visibility and Recognition: Your contributions in a small company are often more visible, leading to faster recognition, opportunities for leadership roles, and a deeper understanding of business operations. 4. Innovative Culture: Small companies are often more agile and innovative, encouraging creativity, initiative, and the exploration of new ideas and strategies. Ultimately, the choice between big and small companies depends on your career goals, personal preferences, and desired work environment. Consider factors such as company culture, growth opportunities, learning experiences, and alignment with your values and aspirations. Whether you choose to start your career in a big corporation or a small company, each path offers valuable lessons, growth potential, and the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to your chosen industry. . . . #CareerPath #BigCompanies #SmallBusiness #ProfessionalDevelopment #EntrepreneurialSpirit #LearningOpportunities #CareerGrowth #CompanyCulture #CareerAdvice #CareerDecisions #GraduateJobs #CorporateCulture #ProfessionalExperience #CareerPathways #JobOpportunities #EmploymentChoices #WorkEnvironment #JobSearchTips #CorporateGrowth #SmallBusinessCulture #CareerGoals #LearningCurve #EntrepreneurialMindset #JobMarketInsights #CareerDevelopment #IndustryInsights

Meet Neha Sharma, a shining example of resilience and adaptability in the face of career transitions. Neha's journey underscores the importance of strategic planning and continuous learning in maintaining financial stability amidst evolving career paths. As Neha transitioned between industries and roles, she embraced income fluctuations with a proactive mindset. She established an emergency fund to cushion financial uncertainties and meticulously budgeted her expenses to ensure a sustainable lifestyle during transitional phases. Recognizing the value of upskilling in today's competitive landscape, Neha prioritized continuous learning to stay ahead of the curve. She invested in online courses, workshops, and certifications relevant to her evolving career interests, enhancing her skill set and marketability across industries. Moreover, Neha seized every opportunity for career advancement by networking, seeking mentorship, and actively pursuing new challenges. She remained open to diverse career paths, leveraging her transferable skills to pivot seamlessly between roles and industries. Through strategic planning, upskilling initiatives, and a proactive approach to career advancement, Neha not only maintained financial stability but also thrived professionally. Her story inspires us to embrace change, invest in self-improvement, and seize opportunities for growth in our careers. Let's follow Neha's lead and navigate career transitions with confidence, resilience, and a commitment to continuous learning. Together, we can chart a path towards financial stability and professional fulfillment in an ever-changing job market. 🌟 #CareerTransitions #FinancialStability #ProfessionalGrowth * Names of the Clients are changed on request to protect privacy.

🎉 22 Years of Risk, Learning, and Growth 🎉 Today marks 22 years since I took a leap of faith and arrived in New Zealand as an 18-year-old international student. I barely spoke English, had no idea where New Zealand was, and came with only a suitcase of hope and curiosity. One constant has guided me: taking risks, embracing uncertainty, and being fearless. Every unconventional choice led to growth far beyond what I imagined. Some defining moments of my journey: 1️⃣ 2002: Left China to study in New Zealand, trusting my parents’ wisdom. I had no idea what I was stepping into, but I dove in anyway. 2️⃣ Choose Applied Science when others went for Business, IT, or Engineering— taking a gamble on what felt right, not what was popular. 3️⃣ Started in Manufacturing as a labor hand, while others avoided the "unattractive" jobs. 4️⃣ Worked graveyard shifts (midnight to 8 am) — learning that real growth happens outside your comfort zone. 5️⃣ Started as Mr. Nobody, but constantly holding an open mind and continuously learning habits to build and accumulate knowledge, skills, and experience, to leading multi-million dollar improvements by staying curious and taking action. 6️⃣ Left a corporate job to lead a start-up, bringing a concept to life in 8 months. 7️⃣ Failed two start-ups — but bounced back to lead a national productivity program across New Zealand. 8️⃣ Took a leap into EY Consulting, leading transformational programs for clients locally and globally. 9️⃣ Left Big 4 consulting to explore the public sector, proving we can thrive in new environments when we stay open to learning. ✨ The Lesson learned: Don’t wait for the perfect moment or the safest path. Take risks, challenge yourself, and trust your ability to learn and adapt. Growth happens when we embrace the unconventional, and every setback is a setup for something greater. If my journey has taught me anything, it’s that fearlessness isn’t about never being scared—it’s about being scared and doing it anyway. I’d love to connect with anyone who resonates with this message or who is navigating their own path of growth and transformation. Let’s learn from each other, take those bold steps together, and see what’s possible. #RiskTaking #ContinuousImprovement #GrowthMindset #FearlessLeadership #OperationalExcellence #TransformationJourney #ConnectingForGrowth

It was gratifying to deliver a keynote to a high energy group of 150 recent immigrants and international students at the Deloitte #Toronto office.  The Newcomer Summit, organized by Ritika Saraswat and Sayed Rahat, focused on upskilling and empowering these newcomers through workshops, panels, and networking, all through the power of #humanconnections. While I wasn’t there for it, Deloitte Canada CEO Anthony Viel’s address inspired the group. I began my remarks with: ”I too am an immigrant.”  I came to Canada (#Vancouver) at age 14 and like most in the room was thrust into new beginnings and the promise of a bright future in my new home.  Adjusting to a new country was exhilarating and scary, sometimes hard, but made easier when others reached out to give me a hand.  My career took twists and turns.  It was a lattice, not a ladder.  I continually pushed myself outside my comfort zone; I am always learning.  I shared lessons learnt from my extensive career journey “from teller to CHRO” at RBC, and now in my #PurposefulThirdAct. 🔹 Lesson 1 - Be proud of your heritage and roots: embrace them as strengths, leverage your perspectives and lived experiences for creativity and innovation at work. 🔹 Lesson 2 - Lead with your values: be clear on your values, what you stand for.  Ask yourself - Who do I want to be? What brings me joy and fulfillment? How do I want to be of service? 🔹 Lesson 3  - Your career is a long game.  To help you decide on your next job or career change ask yourself these questions: ▶️ What skills will I add to my portfolio?   ▶️ Which leaders will I work with and learn from?    ▶️ How will I contribute and stand out?   ▶️ Will this create more options for the future?  Judge your success by your own standards, not by what others will think. I took two lateral jobs and one at a lower level during my RBC career -  great learning opportunities. 🔹 Lesson 4 - Develop strong human skills: even more important as #AI, especially #GenAI  augments humans.  Skills like adaptability, curiosity, creativity, empathy and compassion, problem solving, communication. 🔹 Lesson 5 - Relationships matter, a lot: invest in building professional relationships inside and outside the organization; start early in your career, and make them #reciprocal, not one way. 🔹 Lesson 6 - Take care of yourself: prioritize your #wellbeing.  You simply cannot perform at your best without this.  Performance and wellbeing are two sides of the same coin. 🔹 Lesson 7 - Dream big and take action to get there. To the participants: as I requested at the session please share your biggest take-aways and how you plan to put them in action.  I learn from that, as do others.   #impactthatmatters

#SundayReflections: Connecting the dots This week, I was moved by Sarfira, a film that stirred up a mix of admiration and reflection. Akshay Kumar’s portrayal of Captain G.R. Gopinath, the ex-army officer who founded Air Deccan, brings to life the journey of a man determined to make air travel accessible to every Indian. It’s a powerful story, with a particular scene that stayed with me long after. In one intense moment, Vir (Akshay’s character) finds himself speaking with Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. At this point in the story, he’s struggling against a mountain of obstacles. Dr. Kalam offers his guidance to the school children: "Three things you need to succeed—clear aim, hard work, and perseverance." But Vir, with frustration in his voice, interrupts: "Opportunities…what about opportunities? It’s not just about hard work. In this country, opportunities are everything. And they’re far from equal.” This scene struck a nerve. Vir’s frustration echoes a reality many of us recognize: talent and hard work alone don’t guarantee opportunities. In our society, opportunities are still heavily shaped by caste and class locations. I was reminded of a recent job post shared by Zomato co-founder Deepinder Goyal. It wasn’t your typical listing—it included a requirement for applicants to pay ₹20 lakhs to work in the role. The rationale was to filter out those who weren’t “serious” enough. It made me wonder: does the ability to pay really signify someone’s seriousness, or does it simply reveal who can afford to “buy” an opportunity? Are we saying that people without ₹20 lakhs lack ambition or drive? It brought me back to Vir’s question in the film—what about those who already have the aim, the hard work, and the perseverance, but can’t afford the ticket into the room? In recent years, hustle culture has become a badge of honor. But is it fair to expect everyone to “hustle” equally when access to opportunities is so skewed? Asking people to work for free or even pay to work—these filters inherently favor those with the means, and they leave behind so many who are just as driven but have fewer resources. We’re not just excluding talent; we’re reinforcing privilege. Let’s consider how we define “dedication.” Can we measure it without financial filters that narrow the talent pool? Zomato Deepinder Goyal

Global opportunities start with a mindset, not a passport... On Thursday, I had the privilege of attending the virtual event "Unlock Global Opportunities: The International Job Role" organized by Envisage Hub and led by Haoma Worgwu. It was an incredibly inspiring and informative session, featuring industry experts who generously shared their journeys and insider tips for navigating the competitive global job market. The lineup included industry leaders like: ° Rhoda Orovwiroro, AAT, ACA, Finance Manager at Microsoft ° Mary Akintelu AAT, ACA, ACCA(in progress), Assistant Manager at Deloitte, UK ° Ifeanyi Obata, Banking Analyst at Goldman Sachs, London ° Ewerechukwu A. , Ex-Product Manager at Spotify I won't also forget the host of the event that steered it in all the right directions; Tobi Oladimeji Here are some key takeaways that truly resonated with me: 1. The Importance of Skill Diversity: Each speaker highlighted how crucial it is to diversify your skills and continuously learn. In today's dynamic job market, being adaptable and expanding your expertise across multiple areas is key. 2. Networking and Building Authentic Relationships: It was inspiring to hear about the role that networking played in the speakers' careers. Building genuine relationships, both in-person and virtually, can open unexpected doors. 3. Confidence in the International Job Market: One recurring theme was the importance of confidence—knowing your worth and not being afraid to step out of your comfort zone. The stories shared reminded me that opportunities exist beyond borders, and with the right mindset and preparation, anything is INDEED possible! 4. Thriving in a Competitive Environment: The speakers stressed the significance of resilience and perseverance in a competitive job landscape. Their insights on navigating challenges, embracing failures as learning opportunities, and staying focused on long-term goals were truly motivating. This event has undoubtedly shifted my mindset, reinforcing the value of continuous learning and the power of a global perspective. I’m excited to apply these lessons in my career journey, pursue new skills, and explore international opportunities with renewed enthusiasm. A big thank you to the speakers and the organizers for an impactful session. I look forward to connecting with more amazing professionals who share a passion for personal and professional growth! #20daylinkedinchallengewithhaoma #CareerGrowth #GlobalOpportunities #Networking #SkillDevelopment #MindsetShift #LearningJourney #ProfessionalDevelopment #EventTakeaways #advancewithhaoma

Have you ever been thrown into a completely new area of work? It’s a bit like stepping into the unknown—both exciting and a little intimidating. In my career, I’ve transitioned into several functional roles, sometimes diving into entirely different domains. These shifts have been challenging, but they've also been some of the most rewarding experiences. Here’s what I’ve picked up along the way: - Each role and function has its own language, processes, and intricacies. It’s like learning a new dialect! From picking up unfamiliar terminology to understanding workflows, the learning curve can feel steep. But this is also the fun part—you’re expanding your skill set with each conversation. The fresh perspective you bring allows you to spot inefficiencies and areas for improvement that others may have missed. - Transitioning into a new area often means balancing learning with execution. You’re figuring out new tools, processes, and strategies while still trying to deliver results. It can feel like a juggling act! But the more you learn, the more everything clicks, and suddenly the work becomes more manageable. - One of the biggest perks -the relationships you build across departments. As someone with experience in different areas, you quickly become a bridge between teams. It gives you the opportunity to foster collaboration and break down silos that may have existed previously. For me, leveraging my IIT network has been a game-changer in terms of relationships. My reach within this strong, supportive alumni community has provided fresh insights, diverse ideas, as also sharp criticism which helped in resolving complex problems. - It’s not just about learning the technical skills of a new role—it’s about being flexible, open to change, and ready to embrace uncertainty. In every transition, there are moments of discomfort, where you may question your abilities. But being adaptable allows you to pivot, stay focused, and turn challenges into opportunities.  You develop an adaptive mindset that keeps you resilient, helping you not just survive but thrive in new environments. - The feeling of being out of your comfort zone is inevitable at first. The self-doubt creeps in: “Do I have what it takes?” But that’s where growth happens. Embrace the discomfort, trust in your ability to learn quickly, and before you know it, you'll have built the confidence and competence to tackle anything that comes your way. Have you faced similar challenges when moving into a new functional role? Drop your experiences in the comments below!👇 #OilAndGas #NewRoles #Leadership #ChallengesAndOpportunities.