|
|
|
|
|
|
image consultant
Career Hotline
scholarship
roundup
news
board
Cool
Counsel
field
in focus: packaging industry
course
cruising
course
chat: bba
PG in financial markets at IIM Shillong
office
mantra: power dose
ON MY OWN
Happiness
@ work
food
for thought
|
|
image consultant
Synonymous with names as wardrobe consultant, fashion stylist, or makeover consultant, image consultants are paid to show people how to create a lasting impression. They might recommend wearing different colours or new styles, go through closets to toss out clothing that isn't working, shop for a new wardrobe, and put together incredible outfits. They might advise a change of hairstyle, makeup, or grooming. But image is more than just looks and couture. In addition to guiding one on looks, image consultants also form impressions based on how someone talks and behaves. So image consultants may also advise people on their vocal communication like voice modulation, tone and tenor of communicating, syntax, vocabulary and non-verbal communication like handshakes, posture, eye contact, and etiquette — from presenting views, wining, dining to using cell phones or even the FaceBook. The first step to becoming an image consultant is to decide what type of services you want to offer. You could specialise in haute couture or fashion consulting, offer advice on soft skills that include both body language as well as verbal communication, or be a makeover consultant who looks at things from a holistic perspective. Since this career option calls for instilling a style statement as well as an insignia, the best way to do it is to get some hands on experience. When it comes to being an image consultant, while there are a variety of books and training programmes that you can use to quickly learn the basics, nothing beats hands-on experience. Offer free makeovers to friends and family members who will agree to let you take their pre and post photos. You can then put the pictures in a portfolio or on a website to help you get paying clients. There are many types of clients who use the services of image consultants — girls who want a to wear and experiment a new look, job-seekers, corporate executives, beauty pageant contestants who need to walk the ramp and leave an impression not only through their looks but also through six sigma responses to the judges’ questions. Besides the celluloid celebrities, real life characters like lawyers and their clients, cancer survivors, politicians, and singles seeking a partner also seek the advice of image consultants. Skill set If you have a strong visual sense as well as excellent communication skills, then yes, you are cut out for this hot career. You must be able to diplomatically tell someone what they need to improve about their appearance. Image consulting is a service business so it doesn’t require a large investment to get started. You can start part-time while working at another job. Remember, to be credible, example is always better than precept, so if you are set up to improve the world’s image, start with yourself and work for pleasing, professional looks and a credible voice that exudes conviction.
Course to success Certification validates you as a professional and lends credibility to your work. When you're certified, you can charge more for your work. One of the most gratifying aspects of working as a Personal Image Consultant is helping people reach their full potential. With the comprehensive set of Image Consultant Training Programmes and learning materials that are available in a number of institutions, becoming a certified image consultant is fun and easy. Remuneration — tangible and intangible Some consultants charge their clients Rs 5000-Rs1,00,000 a day and more. Some work part time, others make it their full-time career and earn high six-figure incomes. You can earn a great living by doing individual coaching sessions, group sessions, teaching evening classes at the local collages, doing seminars in companies, writing articles and books, appearing on television and radio shows as the expert. The intangible benefits are - you can help people to succeed and live better lives. A person's image, manners and communication skills make the difference between mega success and average in their personal, social and business life. As a Certified Image and Etiquette consultant, you can positively make a difference in their lives. In addition to the knowledge and skills your clients acquire when you coach them, they will experience a big leap in their confidence and self-esteem. You will earn respect as an accomplished professional knowledge and skills as a successful coach lead to respect with your colleagues, clients, family and friends. Workscape You can be completely flexible as far as work is concerned as you do not need an expensive office or retail location. You can run a home based office and work with your clients in their homes or offices. A consultant does not have to work any set schedule. You can work as little or as much as you wish. The greater your effort and commitment, the greater your success and financial compensation. An image consultant is a professional who provides services to individuals and corporates through coaching, presentations, seminars, and workshops. Image consultants offer assistance in image enhancement like appearance, body and colour analysis, wardrobe development and management, having sound and effective communication, business and social etiquette, civility, branding, and more — all through coaching and training. Strategy & synergy l Most image consultants also develop an amalgam of competition and cooperation with a network of strategic partners, such as hair dressers, dermatologists, makeup artists, nutritionists, dentists, personal trainers, plastic surgeons, and voice coaches. Image consultants offer the kind of advice that can help people land a job, get a promotion, find someone to love, or just feel good about them. l A particularly lucrative avenue is organising training programmes for corporates on telephone etiquette for customer service staff, communication skills for new supervisors and even leadership charisma programmes for those who are at the helm of affairs in an
organisation. — The writer is Ludhiana- based career consultant
|
|
What are the prospects in molecular biology?
Pervin Malhotra Q. I am a student of BSc microbiology. Could you please tell me something about molecular biology and the prospects in this field? — shivani gupta
Cell biology studies the properties of cells, including their physiological properties, their structure, their organelles, interactions with their environment, their life cycle, division and death. Molecular and cellular biology are interrelated, since most of the properties and functions of a cell can be described at the molecular level. Like all other life sciences, it examines and solves a broad range of critical biological problems i.e. designing, producing and testing new drugs to treat AIDS, cancer, asthma, diabetes or new peptides to fight bacterial infection. A lot of work is under way in new areas such as gene mapping, gene therapy and drug delivery systems using advanced DNA technologies. Starting from the evolution of the cell and small molecules, your study of microbiology at the bachelor's level would have covered energy, biosynthesis, macromolecules, protein function, basic genetic mechanisms, recombinant DNA technology, control of gene expression membrane, ionic basis of membrane excitability, intracellular compartments and protein sorting, cell signalling, the cytoskeleton, maintenance of tissues, and the immune system. You'll now learn various computational methods, including molecular mechanics, molecular dynamics, pharmacophore mapping and modelling (plotting the spatial arrangement of a small number of atoms or functional groups) and some software packages. Theory will be complemented with considerable lab work and experiments. Gene mapping and gene transfer - introducing genes directly resistant to drought, disease etc into plants has tremendous implications on agriculture. If you are fascinated by the beauty and intricacies of the tiniest life forms and are prepared to work hard, this can be an extremely challenging and promising field. You will essentially work on research programmes at institutes, pharmaceutical and agri-biotech firms and universities to provide accurate and reliable diagnostic data based on modern molecular methods to cure various diseases and develop new and high yielding breeds of plants. You could even work as a DNA fingerprinting expert or work on research projects at the global level. And, taking about cells, here's an interesting aside: An ostrich egg can weigh up to 1.3 kg and the contained yolk is the largest single cell of any organism
Open option
A.So what if you couldn't complete your schooling? Nothing is lost. You can happily continue your education at any stage of your life. The Open School and University system is specifically designed for people like you who may have had to discontinue their studies for one reason or another. In fact, India has one of the most well-established ODL networks in Asia with over 14 open universities functioning in different parts of the country. The National Institute of Open Schooling, under the Department of Education is one option. NIOS conducts exams at the matriculation level for which the notification is issued in June/July and the application deadline is August. The forms are available at NIOS study centres at a nominal price. In addition to a wide range of vocational courses NIOS also offers one-year certificate courses in computer applications and library science etc, which you may find useful. The best thing about NIOS is that you don’t have to take all exams in one go. You can do so in lots and at your convenience. Yet another option is to seek direct enrolment for a bachelor’s degree at an Open University like IGNOU. Even if you don’t have the necessary formal qualifications, you can apply for these student-friendly courses at any age. While some of these open universities admit students on the basis of an entrance test, others like IGNOU ask you to take a short preparatory programme (BPP) prior to joining the course. Besides these, several regular universities offer an array of degree and diploma level courses through their distance learning programmes.
A lot on your platter
Q. I have just passed my Class XII (non-med). I'm not particularly interested in engineering or law. What other options besides BSc do I have and what are the career options ahead? — jitin mohta
A.You have a whole host of options open to you. The career options, other than engineering and law, for science (non-medical) students are: armed forces (all three branches), commercial pilot, merchant navy, architecture, courses in pure, physical and applied sciences, computers and IT, maths and statistics, actuarial science, hotel management, mass communication, commerce & management (BBA, BCom, etc), economics, CA / CS / CWA and even courses in fashion and design. Your choice of career (and therefore course) must factor in your unique combination of interests, personality, and abilities (both hard and soft skills). I suggest you take a validated career interest and personality assessment exercise followed by a one-on-one counselling session with a well-informed career counsellor to help you narrow down the options best suited for you. Best of luck!
email your queries to careers@tribunemail.com ...
|
|
Research at IIT-B
Study subject(s): Climate studies Eligibility: BE/BTech/MTech (post-graduate degree preferred) in Energy Science and Engineering, Environmental Science and Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related disciplines OR MA/ MPhil (economics, geography, applied statistics or related social science disciplines) / MBA. Some research experience and interest in the energy, environment, climate change area desirable. Good quantitative and analytical skills required. Field/survey experience will be preferred. How to apply: Online at http://www.ircc.iitb.ac.in/IRCC-Webpage/HRMSLoginPage.jsp Deadline: July 6, 2012 Road to Rhodes The Rhodes Trust is funding master’s, DPhil scholarships for Indian students at University of Oxford Study subject(s): Courses offered by the University Eligibility: l Aged between 19 and 25 years on October 1, 2013. l Candidates must have at least a first class degree in humanities, sciences, law, engineering, agriculture or medicine from an Indian university. Candidates in the final year of a degree course and having an exceptionally bright academic record may also apply. l Candidates for medical studies should consult the Secretary, as well as the Medical School Offices at Oxford, before submitting an application. Particular difficulties may arise for those wishing to do research in clinical departments. Duration: The scholarship is initially for a period of two years but if necessary, can be extended to a third year. The Rhodes Trustees would consider granting a third year only if it is clear that the additional year is eminently in the interest of a scholar's studies and future career. It is essential to have a satisfactory conduct and general record for this. Details: This scholarship covers approved university and college fees for which payment is made directly to the scholar's college. It also covers living expenses sufficient to enable a scholar to meet the necessary expenses for term-time and vacations. The Trust will also meet the cost of a scholar's air travel, economy class, to the UK and of return to India on completion of studies at Oxford. How to Apply: Online Deadline: July 31, 2012 Check out: www.rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk/section/rhodes-countries or www.rhodesscholarships-india.com
|
|
Science conference at LPU
Lovely Professional University in association with Punjab Technical University will be hosting the third Bhartiya Vigyan Sammelan and Expo-2012, from October 11 to 14, 2012. To be organised, under the theme of “Science for Global Development”, this mega science conference will be held in collaboration with Vijnana Bharti, Punjab Technical University and Punjab State Council of Science and Technology. As many as 3,000 eminent scientists and academicians are likely to participate in this Science Congress. Punjab Government has also announced a grant of Rs 50 lakh for this event. The Chancellor of LPU, Ashok Mittal said, “The main focus of the conference would be on environment and renewable energy; science and technology and agriculture.”
|
|
Cool Counsel
In a world dominated by keyboard and mouse, very little attention is paid to the handwriting of a person. This fact is revealed in the indecipherable scrawl of many a youngster. While the handwriting of two persons can be similar, it can never be identical. Handwriting is as personal as our fingerprints.
Descriptive tests are actually based on the fact that handwriting is brain writing. It is one's brain which guides how one writes. Handwriting is truly the brain graph on paper. The interpretation of one's handwriting brings forth the coded message of one's personality. The twists, turns, slants, loops, and curls in one's handwriting reveal a lot about one's potential, capability, and even weaknesses in minute details. Graphology reveals that the amount of pressure that we exert while writing reveals our emotional state. Spacing reveals the state of our mind. The margins indicate our sense of proportion. The speed of writing indicates the amount of energy we have. The style of writing indicates the sharpness of our mind. The slope indicates our degree of affections. The size of words shows our power of concentration. Our terminal strokes reveal how generous we are. Our capital letters indicate our personal tastes. Our small letters reflect our mental development. Our signatures reveal our individuality. That's why it if often advised to make our signatures cool! Good news is that one can improve one's handwriting at any age, stage, and in any profession. Most of us write with fingers and wrists. This is not the accurate way to write. The accurate way is to write with your arm and shoulder. But you were taught to write the other way only. Perhaps, that is the reason that your handwriting bad. Some certainly have an awful handwriting. And they feel ashamed of writing in the presence of others. However, it is never too late to mend. Spare a little time daily to improve your handwriting. Learn to write with an enthusiastic zeal in your most beautiful hand. Don't press your pen on the paper as you write. Simply move your pen lightly. Write with the muscles of your arm. Have the feeling that your shoulder is empowering your arm to move the pen. You will feel a sense of vibration, guiding you to move your pen as you wish. And you will feel at ease too. Better, learn to write in the air before you write specific letter forms. Write from your arm and shoulder in the air. Feel that there is a big white sheet on which you are writing. Don't move your hand or fingers. As the white screen is big enough, so make big sweeping movements. Don't attempt to write letters at first. Just make shapes and figures. Your purpose here is not actual writing. It is just a practice to use the muscles of your arm and shoulder. Get familiar with it. It will become a habit with regular practice and you will see how with change in your feelings the pressure on pen changes. As your handwriting changes, your brain functioning and general working methodology will also change. Your efficiency and skills will take a new turn. The work which would bore you earlier will become interesting. Your output and productivity will be enhanced. So from now onwards, be up and doing. And build the worth you really deserve. Your consistent strokes in handwriting will show how well ordered and logical a mind you have.
— The writer is a psychologist and career expert
|
|
field in focus: packaging industry
The packaging career field involves the use of materials, methods, design concepts and machinery to develop and produce the packages that protect and preserve a product, help market the product and instruct the consumer in its proper use. Packaging broadly covers wrapping, boxing or bottling of a product. The increasing demand for quality packaging has not only resulted in higher standards in packaging design and materials, but also in the development of newer materials, and speciality packages. Today the variety of packaging materials range from the traditional wood, paper, tinplate and glass to all kinds of boards, plastic and flexible packaging, thermocole, bio-degradable materials and the use of laminates and polyvinyl chlorides. It is because of this quantum development in the industry that packaging has surged beyond the boundaries of technology to be considered as an industry on its own - with great potential for those who join it. The packaging industry offers multi-disciplinary careers and requires specialised knowledge of the materials, processing, design, quality, and environmental trends. Workscape Packaging encompasses numerous disciplines from engineering and science to marketing and design. It, therefore, offers opportunities for professionals from all these areas. Basically the work in packaging covers - Manufacture and Marketing. Those handling Manufacture are normally engineers or science graduates who are familiar about the different properties of materials used, and can handle the different processes in manufacturing, supervise production, handle quality control and durability of the packaging material. Packaging technologists choose the right packaging material and right shape from the preservation as well as production point of view - adapting various materials for different uses in packaging. Marketing professionals in packaging have to sell packaging materials, or machinery for manufacturing the packaging materials, or packing the product. They would, therefore, need to know the properties of the product, how the product is being used, and the technology of the material to be used for packaging. They work with designers who innovate and design attractive eye-catching packaging that stands out on the shelf. Designers are responsible for making it look attractive, easy to handle, easy to dispose and at the same time be economically priced. Designers also need to be knowledgeable about printing, colouring inks, labels and so on. Getting In Graduates in chemistry, food sciences, engineering, microbiology, electronics and related studies can take courses in packaging technology. There are postgraduate diploma/certificate courses in packaging technology, although there are limited institutions offering these courses. Often young engineers and science graduates are hired by organisations and given on-the-job training. There are also certificate courses in packaging for graduates in any discipline. While science graduates are eligible for jobs in marketing and design, those going into the manufacturing field would require a background in engineering and printing. There are a number of courses at different levels being offered by different institutes in India. The Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP)www.iip-in.com established by the Ministry of Commerce, based in Mumbai, and with branches in Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad and Kolkata, offers several programmes. These include: l The certificate programme in packaging (three months, full-time): is suitable for fresh diploma/graduates in any discipline who desire to make a career in packaging business/profession. l The Post Graduate Diploma in Packaging (two year full-time) is open to all graduates in science, technology and engineering and allied fields. Admission is through an all-India entrance exam conducted in June every year in all metro cities. l An 18-month distance education programme in packaging technology for graduates with a minimum of two years of working experience in packaging or related field. Job prospects Graduates with a qualification in this field can look forward to opportunities in the production, marketing, and research and development area of any company producing packaging material, or with the packaging department of any manufacturing organisation. Qualified students of the two-year PG programme are normally absorbed through campus placements in the package design and development departments or purchase, production or packaging departments of big pharma, FMCG and IT peripheral companies like Procter and Gamble, HUL, Cadilla and Moser Baer, as well as cosmetic companies and electronic firms. In addition, they can also join the quality control or production dept of packaging material converting industries, or the marketing department of packaging material manufacturers for the selling and marketing of packaging materials. There are lucrative placements for qualified professionals with salary packages ranging from Rs 4-5 lakh to up to Rs 15-20 lakh per annum
— The writer is Director, Careers Smart Pvt Ltd, New Delhi
|
|
UG in economics
Eligibility: Applicants who have passed/appeared for the Class XII examination conducted by CBSE/ISC/State Board/International Baccalaureate (IB)/GSCE A-Levels (by May 2012) are eligible to apply. Candidates applying for BSc Economics need to have proof of competency in mathematics (equivalent to Class XII). For other programmes candidates should be able to demonstrate ability in mathematics (equivalent to Class X). Selection procedure: CBSE/ISC/State Board: Selections are made on the basis of an entrance exam and personal interview. IB students: With 30 credits or more (predicted / final grades): Are exempted from the entrance exam. Selections are made on the basis of a personal interview. How to Apply: Online Seats: 40 for every course. Check out: www.applytoisbf.com Capsule course on disaster management The Indian Institute for Human Settlements (IIHS) will be holding a five-day short course on Integrated Urban Disaster Risk Reduction (IUDRR) focusing on proactive mitigation and preparedness. The course will be held in New Delhi from July 17 to 21 at the IIHS office. The course will benefit professionals in the area of building science, economics, sociology, urban planning, disaster recovery, business continuity etc by helping them understand a new frame to deal with disaster risk reduction. Rohit Jigyasu, Professor at the Research Center for Disaster Mitigation of Urban Cultural Heritage at Ritsumeikan University, Kyoto, Japan. The President of ICOMOS International Scientific Committee on Risk Preparedness (ICORP) will be the course Director. Last Day for registration: July 10, 2012 Check out: http://www.iihs.co.in/programmes/pwp/iudrr/july2012/ BSc in animation and filmmaking Animation and VFX training academy of Reliance Animation - BIG AIMS (Animation Infotainment and Media School) - has introduced a degree programme in digital animation filmmaking and digital visual effects filmmaking in collaboration with Lovely Professional University (LPU). The academy will also offer diploma and certificate courses. Under the MoU, BIG AIMS and LPU will offer BSc in Digital Animation Filmmaking & Digital Visual Effects Filmmaking. The USP of all the courses is the innovative curriculum that underlines the core principles of animation and VFX filmmaking that position it primarily as an artistic vocation with technology seamlessly integrated. Media courses Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication has invited applications for PG Diploma in the following programmes: l Advertising and Marketing Communication l Corporate Communication / PR and Event Management l TV and Radio Production l Social Media and Web Journalism Duration: 1 year Eligibility: Graduation. Those awaiting final year results can also apply. How to apply: AIMC prospectus and application form can be downloaded from : http://www.apeejay.edu/aimc/admissions Check out: http://apeejay.edu/
|
|
Basics of business
With admissions after Class XII becoming synonymous with cut-throat competition, students are concerned about getting prepared for the job world at the earliest. Parents, too, want their ward to get the best quality education and be fully prepared for the future. No wonder then that more and more school passouts are now opting for professional courses, instead of the conventional BA and B.Com degrees. Just as BTech and MBBS top the list of courses for the science students, Bachelor’s of Business Administration (BBA) course has become the favourite choice of students of humanities and commerce streams. BBA, as the name suggests, is more or less related to management and to pursue it further students can apply for an MBA, which will be like an icing on the cake. The growing Indian economy demands a lot of workforce and entrepreneurs who have managerial and leadership abilities, and these qualities can best be embibed by pursuing BBA from a good college. Strong foundation
This course develops a skill-set, encompassing management abilities, good communication skills and leadership capabilities. Major topics covered in this course are principles of accounting, business economics, business law, marketing management, financial management and computer fundamentals, all of which are integral part of today’s business world. The basic knowledge of these subjects equips the students for the challenges that they would face in the real corporate world. Apart from academics, some good BBA colleges also ensure holistic development of students by incorporating training in life skills like communication, ability to manage stress, time management, team building . Job prospects The fundamental reason for choosing BBA today is a good job and pay package. Sectors like Banking and financial sector, FMCG, Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing, Infrastructure, BPO & IT services provide opportunities to young managers and a great scope for immense growth based on the capability of a candidate. Almost all departments within organisations, including HR, Marketing, Finance and Operations, look for managers. Besides job, after a BBA degree, students can choose to become an entrepreneur by starting their own enterprise or manage family-owned business. BBA equips a budding entrepreneur/businessman with the requisite business managing skills, which he can apply to expand his business. After BBA, graduates can also enroll for professional courses such as CA and CS or opt for PG courses such as MBA and MCA. Right choice While today BBA is being offered by numerous government and private colleges, it is a tough task for students to choose which college would be best for them. Infact, it is easy to fall in prey to institutes which make false promises. Therefore, each aspirant should carefully evaluate the credentials of the shortlisted colleges by looking at their promoting group, placement team, pedagogy and faculty. — With inputs from Harpreet Singh,Executive Director, Educomp Raffles Higher Education Ltd.
|
|
PG in financial markets at IIM Shillong
The National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Indian Institute of Management, Shillong (IIMS), have started a two-year full-time Post Graduate Programme in Financial Markets (PGP-FM).The programmes is the first of its kind offered by an IIM in India. An agreement to this effect was signed recently by Ravi Narain, Managing Director & CEO of NSE and Ashoke K. Dutta, Director of IIM Shillong.
In addition to the two year PG programme, NSE and IIM Shillong will also offer a number of advanced level certifications and management development programmes in financial markets. The PGP-FM course will be a combination of general management subjects and highly specialised subjects in financial markets such as financial valuation and modeling, equity research, technical analysis, derivatives trading strategies and financial engineering. The PGP students will be able to get a global perspective as the programme will include a visit to international markets. The students will be able to simulate market conditions and develop trading, investment and portfolio management skills through a simulated market software, specially designed by NSE. Stand alone management development programmes and certification courses, to be offered jointly by NSE and IIM Shillong in financial engineering, risk management, capital markets, and derivatives will help professionals to sharpen their skills. NSE's partnership with IIM Shillong comes after a number of tie ups with prominent universities for MBA and BBA courses in financial markets. These include the Punjabi University at Patiala, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University at Delhi and the Maharishi Dayanand University in Rohtak. — TNS
|
||
|
Take a lunch-cation
Preetinder Kaur Can't afford a holiday? Try turning your lunch hour into your own mini vacation and rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. All too often, those precious 60 minutes in the middle of the working day are given over to either the practical (bill paying, banking and so on) or the prosaic (chit chat with a colleague or mindlessly flicking through the holiday photos of someone you once went to school with on Facebook). It is, however, possible to transform this time into one that rejuvenates mind, body and spirit; to get some respite from the daily grind. Welcome to your very own "lunchcation".Although the idiom dates to 1908, professionals And, sure enough, Monday morning meetings can seem like a jailhouse roll call, and give even the most well-adjusted employee a bout of cabin fever. Luckily, lunch hour can help lighten the load for busy officers. By making better use of your mid-afternoon break, YOU can improve workplace productivity, as well as protect your emotional stability. Here are a few ideas how: Get sidetracked Check the news, update your blog, or find a new hobby. Allow your mind to wander at noon, and by one o'clock you'll be ready to re-attack whatever brief, filing, or motion still awaits. Your lunchtime should be a time to refocus and refuel for the hours ahead. Pick up a book or catch up on current events with a magazine or newspaper. Check news on your smartphone or iPad. Plan your evening or check your calendar. Go out and get some fresh air Even when you can find grub in your own office building, find an excuse to go outside. A breath of fresh air, the smell of rain, or the touch of sunlight will help rejuvenate your mind and body. Vitamin D from the sun can reduce your chances of developing prostate cancer, breast cancer, cervical cancer, osteoporosis, rickets and other diseases, not to mention impact your mood and positivity. Missing the daylight that comes and goes during those long workdays? Play a game Exercise your mental acuity by playing Words With Friends, Sudoku, or Scrabble. Hone your competitive spirit for the courtroom with a friendly rivalry among family or friends in this lunchtime venture. Relax Lunch is a time to forget workplace anxiety. So, get a massage or go to the gym. The endorphins you rouse during your workout at lunch will help you settle down (or settle your case) in the hours afterward. Call home Is mom/wife always bugging you to call home more often? Here's your chance. Take care of important phone calls during lunch to free yourself up after work. Bring a holiday to your plate by trying a new type of cuisine or new lunch spot at least one day during the working week. And while you're there, don't take the safe option. Ask the proprietor for their recommendation or specialty. It may not always be great, but it often will be and your lunch will become one to remember. Clear the schedule Holidays signal a time when you don't have to be anywhere or do anything. Channel a bit of that freedom by designating one lunch time every week as a task-free one. Accomplish what you need to on Monday to Thursday — even if it means rushing around that little bit more — so that Friday from 1pm to 2pm can be entirely yours to window shop, sit in a park with your feet on the grass, stroll around a gallery or whatever else you feel like doing. Load up Tuesdays Studies show that Tuesday is the most productive day of the work week. Use this to your advantage. Make Tuesdays your power work day! Enjoy those important to youNote that many of the above activities can be enjoyed with friends and family. But they still deserve a category of their own. Spend time with those you care about, those that support your dreams, those that hold you up during the bad times. Remember: "the only way to have a friend is to be one."
The benefits of meditation are well known and many practitioners maintain that a session can make them feel as relaxed and centred as a mini-break.
|
||
|
ON MY OWN
Inspiration lies at the heart of entrepreneurship and this is what makes a simple idea combined with a vision and hard work turn into a yummy recipe for success. This is the road that Indian Institute of Science alumnus Sunil Mahajan took to start his own venture and become a job provider from being a job seeker. Mahajan is the guy who turned his disappointment at not finding an important document into a lucrative business opportunity besides making the lives of thousands of his clients hassle free. Mahajan left a lucrative job as Vice-President of a telecom software company to start his venture - Kleeto - which provides documentation solutions to individual clients as well as to corporates. He shares his success story in an interview with J&C. Excerpts: What led you to start your own venture? Though I had a decent and well paying job, I always had this burning desire to do something different and something of my own. The whole idea of providing document security came to me through a personal experience when I lost an important document and realised how convenient it would have been if someone was taking care of my documentation and thus Kleeto was conceptualised in 2010 by me and two of my friends. The biggest motivation was to offer services to clients that would make their lives more organised and easier apart from contributing to environment conservation by saving paper.
We basically offer record management services. Kleeto focuses on simplifying paper work by managing it both physically and digitally. The team works on the simple philosophy of 'Clip to Click' - to evolve from clipping documents to clicking documents. We offer this service at retail and at corporate levels. At retail level we look after the physical and digital records. Physical records would include your medical records, IT Returns, warranty cards, bills and other documents while the digital records would include pdf files and e mails etc. For corporates the records can include HR files, finance records, legal documents, procurement records etc. Kleeto collects the documents, scan and digitises these to make them available to its registered user's personal account in a categorised manner. It also stores the same documents physically in high security warehouse, which can be delivered to the customer at his doorstep on demand. One may also approach us to undertake offered number of trips on behalf of registered customer to submit or retrieve his documents. Kleeto is accessible through telephone and internet to manage documents conveniently. This way small and medium enterprises can save a lot of cost on renting premises to store records and on hiring manpower to maintain these. The controlled access provision takes care of the security issues. How has the response to your venture been? As at present there is very little competition and no other company is providing end-to-end services the way we are providing, the response has been very good. At present we have about 15,000 retail and 65 corporate clients which is good going considering that we have been in the market for a little over a year and a half. Our clients include small and medium businesses, hotels, manufacturers, law firms, IP companies, logistics, hospitals etc. What were the challenges that you faced as an entrepreneur? Building a brand was the biggest challenge as the concept was new. Even though the idea is good and the concept is unique it was not that easy to establish oneself in the market. A lot of effort went into winning the customers' confidence, especially in this case as the things involved are very important documents and records which no one would like to entrust to an unknown entity so this was the biggest challenge. Collaboration with bigger brands did help us a lot to overcome this challenge. As we got associated with established names and benefited from their trusting image and established ourselves. Hiring the right sort of people was another challenge as one can't pay highly in the beginning. What are your future targets? We are aiming to get 30,000 to 50,000 retail clients in the next four years and the company likely to grow to Rs 400-500 crore group in the next five years. A lot of new services will be added over the next few years. These may include audio and video information, phone book, address book, pictures and passwords also can be stored and all info can be hosted in the central account.
|
||
|
Happiness @
work
In a scenario where people change jobs as regularly as they change clothes, many of us don’t get the time to ‘connect’ with our workplace. In order to bond with your new workplace, think of it as kin. Deep devotion and commitment for one’s work and everyone associated with it never goes unrewarded and is the quality that distinguishes true and successful leaders from the one’s who are just rolling stones who gather neither moss nor a shine.
While setting up the Tata Steel plant in Sakchi, Jharkhand (then Bihar), Jamsetji made all kinds of provisions for his workers and their families. This gesture impressed Viceroy Lord Chelmsford so much that he renamed Sakchi as Jamshedpur. A little later, the Bihar Government renamed Kalimati as Tatanagar station. The secret of salvation was in Brahmanical control till 11th century AD. But when saint Ramanuja was ordained an acharya (teacher), he approached scholar Goshti Purna to at least share it with him. After remaining silent for long, the scholar finally revealed the closely guarded mantra. Considering all men to be his brothers, Ramanuja proclaimed the mantra from the temple top for all to hear. Lord Rama considered the mighty vulture Jatayu as his second father. When Jatayu died trying to foil Sita’s abduction, Rama performed his last rites like a son. When Hanuman brought the Goverdhan mountain to save Lakshmana, Lord Rama called the vaanara warrior “a dear brother like Bharat”. On getting a marriage proposal, freedom fighter Bhagat Singh declared, “As long as India remains enslaved, the only bride I will embrace is death.” Chandra Shekhar Azad echoed his comrade’s words when he said, “I am already married — to my Mauser pistol.” When prince Basavaraja died, his mother Chennamma, the Queen of Kittur, went into depression. So her husband King Mallasarja said, “Neglecting all your other children, you weep for one son who is dead. Isn’t the Queen the mother of her subjects?” The message reached home and Chennamma began working hard for the welfare of all citizens of Kittur. To emphasise the all-encompassing nature of Indian culture, Swami Vivekananda, on September 11, 1893, at the Parliament of Religions in Chicago, addressed the gathering as “sisters and brothers of America”. This break from the formal address of ‘ladies and gentlemen’ made the 7000-odd gathering to give him a two-minute-long standing ovation. Aryamba was worried when her eight-year-old son Adi Sankaracharya decided to take up sanyaas. “Who will take care of you, my boy?” the concerned mother said. “From now on, the entire world is my family and all women are my mothers,” Sankara replied. “Nature is the womb (mother) and I am the life-giving father of all,” declared Krishna (Gita 14.4). You aren’t alone if you have company staff for company. — Sai R. Vaidyanathan The writer can be contacted at svaidyanathan@tribunemail.com
|
||
|
food
for thought
Working mothers are chronically exhausted, stressed parents who lie awake at night worrying about bulging to-do lists, a new research has revealed. According to the Ipsos Mackay Report, while the mums would not turn back the gains of feminism, they are envious of the clear gender divide and simpler life lived by their mothers and grandmothers.
"The full-time working mother is time poor and doing much more than their mothers and grandmothers in terms of being completely responsible for the family," the Daily Telegraph quoted research director Laura Demasi as saying. "And for some with kids come jobs, not careers. Professional women definitely felt as soon as they had kids, their careers became second class and their husband's careers always take precedence," she said. Working mums love being parents and don't regret having a family but admit their lives are a chaotic juggling act. Mother of three Nicola Sault juggles her home-making duties with her antique clothing business. "You do feel a sense of achievement when you are on top of your washing and your ironing and the sheets are changed," Sault said. — ANI
|
||
|
2. Name the Indian-American record-setting astronaut who lived and worked aboard the International Space Station for six months in 2006 and is headed for space once again in July. 3. Name the two routes taken by pilgrims to the holy Amarnath Cave. 4. When is the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking observed? 5. Name the top three countries in the latest list of failed states compiled by the prestigious Foreign Policy Magazine. 6. Name the world’s biggest inhabited river island. 7. Name the new Prime Minister of Pakistan. 8. By what name is the secretariat of the Maharashtra Government known? 9. By how many runs did Sri Lanka defeat Pakistan in the Galle Test recently? 10. Name the first European country to win three major football tournaments following its success in Euro 2008 and the World Cup two years ago. — Tarun Sharma Winners of quiz 415: The first prize by draw of lots goes to Chandan Patel, class XII-A, DAV CP School, Sirsa, Pin Code - 125055 Second: Bhoomika Bhartiya, class VIII-C, St Luke’s Senior Secondary, School, near GPO, Chandigarh, Pin Code - 173212 Third: Shalini Thapar, class XII (N2), Innocent Hearts School, Jalandhar, Pin Code - 144001 Answers to quiz 415: Neelam Sanjeeva Reddy; 1991; Sir Creek; Mehdi Hassan; China; Bharat Earth Movers Limited; Saina Nehwal; Sania Mirza and Mahesh Bhupathi; Maria Sharapova; Rafael Nadal Cash awards of Rs 400, 300 and 200 are given to the first, second and third prize winners, respectively. These are sent at the school address. Note: Kindly mention the pincode of your place on the letter/postcard to facilitate the delivery of the prize money. Answers can also be sent at quiz@tribunemail.com
|
In a world dominated by keyboard and mouse, very little attention is paid to the handwriting of a person. This fact is revealed in the indecipherable scrawl of many a youngster. While the handwriting of two persons can be similar, it can never be identical. Handwriting is as personal as our fingerprints.
Descriptive tests are actually based on the fact that handwriting is brain writing. It is one's brain which guides how one writes. Handwriting is truly the brain graph on paper. The interpretation of one's handwriting brings forth the coded message of one's personality.
Do you know who is behind your favourite film star’s couture line, the famous business magnate’s suave style and the picture perfect poise of presenters on celluloid? Who is the real hero behind these glamorous role models? It is the image consultant who is behind the scenes and runs the show. It is one of the career paths that is growing at an exponential rate and is among the hottest career options today due to an increasing self-awareness and public image perception not only among classes but also among the masses.
Getting in
A.As you perhaps know, molecular biology is the study of biology at the molecular level. This is a highly challenging and fascinating inter-disciplinary science which overlaps with other areas of biology, and chemistry like microbiology and particularly genetics and biochemistry.
Q. I am a young housewife with two school-going kids. I had to discontinue my studies due to the casual attitude of my parents. I could not even complete my matriculation. Please advise me how I should continue my studies. I feel very inadequate. — geeta sharma
Applications are invited for Research Associate position in Climate Studies at Department of Science and Technology at Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay. The position is temporary initially for a period of one year and is tenable only for the duration of the project.
A Maggi noodle packet or a colourful tetrapack of fruit juice is certainly very inviting. Whether it is toothpaste or a computer mouse, McDonald's hotdogs or medicine tablets, everything comes in a package, often attractive, eye-catching and designed not only to catch your attention but also to protect the product and enable it reach the consumer in a safe and sound condition. Virtually every product, whether grown or manufactured, must be packaged so that it reaches the consumer in an acceptable condition. Over the past couple of years, the importance of packaging for the marketing of products has been realised, redefining the whole concept of packaging.
l
The Indian packaging market is estimated to be a little over Rs 60,000 crore and is growing at a rate of 15-20 per cent per annum, more than twice the global average. Not only is the industry growing rapidly but it is also creating lucrative jobs for those who find a career in it. 
Indian School of Business & Finance (ISBF), an affiliate centre of the University of London (UoL) with academic direction from London School of Economics & Political Science (LSE) invites students to apply for its three-year full-time undergraduate honours degree programmes in BSc Economics, BSc Economics & Management and BSc Business.
The Om factor
What is your start up about?
To ensure that the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore gets enough funds after his death, Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata wrote a codicil adopting the institute as his third son. 
1. Where was the UN Conference on Sustainable Development held recently?
