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retail sector
Career Hotline Do IIMs prefer engineers only?
testing times: last minute tips for cat 2012
As your date to take CAT comes nearer, slow down and tell yourself that you are fully prepared. In any case, CAT alone is not going to determine whether you will eventually succeed or not. Also, you have many more challenges in the form of exams like SNAP, NMAT, XAT etc to conquer!
scholarship roundup
INSPIRE Fellowship for GADVASU scholar
Dr. Gousia Nazir
diplomas and certifications: media
farms and fields: ornamental fish farming
office mantra: handling conflict at workplace
Arrogance
management tip
Happiness @ work
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Bagful of jobs
With huge career opportunities in different verticals and the government’s FDI push, this sector is going to be the most sought after option soon Gauri Chhabra The retail sector has been in the news recently thanks to the government clearing the decks for FDI in this sector that will make more global retail giants to set up shop in India. Having a stunted and fragmented genesis as compared to that in other countries, the retail sector in India today stands on the threshold of becoming more organised, thanks to global players entering the market. Skepticism may lurk in the horizon about kiryana shops, but one thing is certain, organised retail sure sounds a clarion call for quality in produce, leanness in logistics and skill in manpower. Largely led by private companies, retail today offers immense career opportunities in its various layers like carrying and forwarding agencies, distributors, wholesalers, and retailers so much so that it has become one of the most sought-after career options. For those of you who wish to ride on the fluidity of fads and fashion that is synonymous with quality, retail offers an escalating career path. Retailing, according to Sam Walton, the founder of Wal-Mart is to give your customers what they want. “And really, if you think about it from the point of view of the customer, you want everything: a wide assortment of good quality merchandise; the lowest possible prices; guaranteed satisfaction with what you buy; friendly, knowledgeable service; convenient hours; free parking; a pleasant shopping experience.” And this in itself is a thrilling experience. Course cursor
Thrill is another name for Retail. So is the insight of consumer behaviour. As a student of retail, you have both variety and assortment of courses to choose from: Certificate Course in Retail Bank Operations Certificate Course in Retail Diploma in Retail Management Bachelor of Arts in Materials Management MBA in Retail Management Master of Retailing & Logistics Management Master in Retail Management Post Graduate Diploma in Retail Management
Getting in
For admission to the three-year bachelor’s degree programme, one needs to have cleared Plus II in any stream. For getting into two-year master’s degree programme, one needs to have cleared the bachelor’s degree in retail management or subjects related to retail. Besides, you can go in for PG Diploma in Retail Management (PGDM). It is a two-year course and the minimum eligibility criterion is a bachelor’s degree in any stream and a valid score in CAT/MAT/XAT/ATMA. Some of the subjects studied under this course are: Marketing Management, Managing Organisation, Introduction to Retailing, Retail Marketing, Consumer Buying Behavior, Retail Environment and Concepts, Supply Chain Management, Mall Management, Retail audit and legal aspects of retailing.
Skill set
The skill set required to get in retailing includes an adjusting personality and the ability to gel in with people. As it is a people-oriented business, you should be lively, flexible and have the right approach to be successful. You need to have the ability to understand and anticipate customers’ choices and communicate accordingly. Since there are many layers involved, you should also have the spirit of working in teams. The growth in this career and promotions entirely depend upon the skills, achievements and the efforts that one puts in.
The road ahead
When asked about the future of organised retail in India, Siddharth Datta, DLF City Centre, Chandigarh, opined, “Organised retail has a very bright future in India as FDI will boost the dead markets and will establish infrastructure slowly and steadily leading to the creation of jobs. The general perception is that retail is only restricted to certain areas, but there will be an escalation in potential of retail in pharmaceuticals, healthcare services, agro-business and service sector leading to a cycle of increase in employment and per capita income.” So, the tale of retail has just begun. It is not the end, but a new beginning .
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Career pathways
The sector which is growing at over 30 per cent each year is going to get a substantial boost with the clearance for FDI and according to experts this will result in almost 54,000 jobs in India over the next five years. Career opportunities will be available at all levels such as supply chain, departmental stores, supermarkets, advertising agencies etc.
Retailing business has been setup by many multinational companies, like Reliance, Tata, ITC, Big Bazaar and Pantaloons to name a few. The business generated by these has created huge employment opportunities for trained retail management professionals. The various roles that one may take up are:
Retail Managers
Retail managers are required to help customers understand about the products and to reach customers. Skilled retail managers are also needed in insurance and banking, advertising agencies, restaurants, banks, warehouses, multiplexes, airlines, book shops, cafes, provision stores, and logistics firms. They are also being needed in the education and healthcare industries.
Visual Merchandisers
The next time you walk into your favorite mall, notice the soaps arranged together to give an impression of colour and style. It is called the Billboard effect and is the work of visual merchandisers who need to play with a rich mosaic of colours, patterns and floor-sets. Their job is to communicate with store managers to work out the floor layout and display points, as well as how and what items will be displayed. Window designs, internal displays and other merchandising of promotional events to entice the customer to buy may be required. Visual merchandisers are responsible for using appropriate lighting for the best presentation possible, arranging signage etc.
Department Managers
Department Managers organise and maintain store merchandise according to the merchandising layout plan, also known as a planogram. District and regional managers judge the department, the store and its managers based on how closely a retail department follows the corporate planogram. Department managers have some flexibility when it comes to merchandising new items or items sent to the store for quick sale.
Supply Chain Distributors
Since some commodities in retail have a very low shelf life, the supply chain needs to be very lean and fast to make goods reach the consumer at a fast rate without leakage or breakage. This is done by supply chain distributors.
Assistant Store Managers
As an assistant store manager your main responsibility is to support the manager in the daily operations of a retail store and to ensure that the store personnel are providing exceptional customer service. This includes answering questions and assisting with product selection, purchases, and returns. Assistant store managers help in ensuring the store is clean, well- organised, and properly merchandised. It is also the assistant’s responsibility to make sure all store policies, procedures, and controls are followed, as well as planning, organising, and delegating work among staff.
Sales Executives
Typically sales executives are involved in activities like listening to customer requirements and presenting appropriately to make a sale, maintaining and developing relationships with existing customers in person and via telephone calls and emails; cold calling to arrange meetings with potential customers to prospect for business, responding to incoming email and phone enquiries; acting as a contact between a company and its existing and potential markets; negotiating the terms of an agreement and closing sales. Institute Watch
Some of the institutes offering management programmes as well as diploma courses are: Amity Business School, Noida (MBA in Retail Management) Ansal University, Gurgaon (Post Graduate Diploma in Retail Mgt.) Arcade Business College, Patna (Bachelor’s in Business Administration Retail Mgt, PG Diploma in Retail Management) Birla Institute of Management Technology, Greater Noida (PG Diploma in Retail Management) Bombay Academy of Management Studies (Diploma in Retail Management) Jaipuria Institute of Management, Lucknow Campus (PG Diploma in Retail Mgt.) IIMT Professional College, Meerut (Certificate in Retail Management)
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Career Hotline Q. I would like to know whether I can go for a PG after passing out of NID? Secondly which other institutes in our country offer PG courses in Design? — Avneesh Handa
The answer to your second question depends on what specialisation or area of design you wish to pursue. NID itself offers a mind-boggling variety of programmes that cover just about every aspect of design you can think of. Between NID’s Heritage Campus at Ahmedabad, the PG campus in Gandhinagar, and the R&D campus in Bengaluru, the following are the Post Graduate Diploma Programmes in Design (PGDPD) that are on offer: Ceramic & Glass Design, Textile Design, Graphic Design, Animation Film Design, Film & Video Communication, Apparel Design & Merchandising, Lifestyle Accessory Design, (2½ years) New Media Design, Strategic Design Management, Information & Interface Design, Design for Retail Experience, Design for Digital Experience, Strategic Design Management (2 years) Selection to these programmes is through a two-part selection process that comprises a Design Aptitude Test (DAT) held in early January, followed by a Studio Test/Interview. You could also look at the Master of Design programme at IIT, Bombay. The Industrial Design Centre at IIT-B features among the best design schools in the world. Admission is through the Common Entrance Exam for Design (CEED). To be eligible, you must have a bachelor's degree or equivalent in Engineering, Architecture or design (including interior design) or a professional diploma of CEPT (5-yr) or NID (4-yr) / BFA (4-yr) professional programme) or a GD Art (5-yr) with one year professional experience Or a master’s degree in arts / science / computer applications. You could look at the PG programmess offered at NIFT and Srishti School of Art, Design & Technology as well.
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Do IIMs prefer engineers only?
Q. I like studying science as a subject but at the same time I am tempted by the fancy job packages offered to MBA graduates. I am in first year of BSc (non-med) and plan to prepare for CAT and would like to join one of the IIMs. But my friends tell me that IIMs prefer candidates with engineering background and so do companies at the time of recruiting. Is this true? —
Amit Kumar
A. Let’s get some facts straight: nAdmission committees at IIMs or good private B-schools don’t have a bias for engineering students While it is true, that an overwhelming majority of those selected to MBA and PGDM programmes at leading B-schools are engineers, this does not reflect a selection bias on part of the admission committees. In fact, IIMs and other leading B-schools actually want to increase the percentage of non-engineering students in their classes. nAs things currently stand, short-listing for the Group Discussion and Personal interview is done solely on the basis of your management entrance test score (CAT, XAT, CMAT) and marks in Class XII and graduation. The fact of the matter is that engineers by virtue of their comfort with numbers do tend to do well on the mathematical and logical part of these entrance tests. Though, they also struggle with the Reading Comprehension. nCome recruitment time, it is true that some companies do tend to prefer engineers. This is especially true when it comes to recruiting students in areas of operations and finance, as the numerical and analytical skills possessed by engineering students make them ideally suited. The fact of the matter is that companies want to recruit the best talent that they think will deliver results for them. Several companies don’t distinguish between engineers and non-engineers and instead look at academic performance before and during the MBA programme and also conduct their own assessments tailored to their needs. So, if you have your heart set on a top-notch MBA put aside all these “excuses” and half-truths and get cracking on your preparation.
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Q. I have done B.Pharma and am interested in joining the defence services. How can I become a part of this profession? — Kartik Khaneja
You can also look at the Non-Technical Entry routes e.g. Indian Military Academy (Direct Entry) or the OTA (Officers Training Academy) or the (Educational Branch for which graduates and specifically life science graduates are eligible. in the Indian Army for instance. For more information, also log onto the respective websites of the three Armed Forces: www.nausena-bharti.nic.in, www.careerairforce.nic.in, www.joinindianarmy.nic.in
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testing times: last minute tips for cat 2012 Ulhas Vairagkar With CAT 2012 starting from October 11, are you ready to tame it? Here are some tips to help you succeed. Unwind and de-stress
CAT is a game of nerves! The best and brightest of students are known to have panicked and squandered away months of preparation due to stress and anxiety. You should, therefore, start unwinding and lightening the study schedule. As your date to take CAT comes nearer, slow down and tell yourself that you are fully prepared. In any case, CAT alone is not going to determine whether you will eventually succeed or not. Also, you have many more challenges in the form of exams like SNAP, NMAT, XAT etc to conquer! Stop trying to learn any new things at least two weeks before your CAT-day and focus on revising, taking selected mock tests and analysing your performance. Don't study much on the last day, relax and prepare yourself to face CAT with a calm mind. If your date is much later in end-October/early November, don't seek any information from the students who have taken CAT in terms of difficulty level of the paper or the number of 'good' attempts. Remember that each slot will have a different paper and the number of questions attempted by a student in his/her slot may not be applicable or relevant in your slot. If you have taken CAT earlier, do not discuss/record actual questions since it is an offence and it could land you in a plenty of trouble.
Master the Logistics
Ensure that you know the exact location of your test centre. It is a good idea to visit it before the test date to avoid last minute panic. Ensure that you have carefully gone through the check-list of items like Admit card, voucher, specified identity card like passport, PAN card, SC/ST eligibility proof etc. Do not carry any bags, mobile phone, wrist-watch etc. since you will not be permitted to take these inside the premises. Since you have to report two hours in advance, ensure that you are well-fed before you enter the premises.
On the examination day
Ensure that you are absolutely comfortable with your seat and computer before you start the exam. Start the exam with confidence and belief that whatever attempts you are able to make will get you a good percentile. Do not guess / force yourself to attempt many more questions than what you can actually attempt. Keep track of time during the test so that you don't get stuck in any one question for a long time. Finally, irrespective of what happens during the exam, don't give up till full 140 minutes are over. As they say, the game is not over till the last ball is bowled. — The writer is Centre Director, Delhi, T.I.M.E.
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Research opportunity
Applications are invited for five Birbal Sahni Research scholarships at the Institute of Palaeobotany, Lucknow. Eligibility:
Preference will be given to CSIR/UGC/NET-qualified candidates Not more than 28 years as on April 1, 2012 Duration: Two years. Details: The research scholar shall be entitled to a scholarship amount of Rs 16,000 per month during the first and second year. After the period of two years, the progress report of the research scholar will be assessed along with publications/accepted research papers, research reports, etc. by a committee constituted by the Director. If found satisfactory, the Research Scholar may be allowed to continue for the third year with the scholarship amount of Rs 18,000 p.m. Candidates who have appeared in MSc. final year examination may also apply. How to apply: Application on a plain paper along with the copies of mark sheets, certificates, degrees, testimonials etc should reach the Registrar, Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, 53, University Road, Lucknow 226-007, UP Deadline: October 15, 2012 Check out: www.bsip.res.in Leadership in management fellowships The United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF) and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) have announced the Fulbright-Nehru-CII Fellowships for Leadership in Management for the academic year 2013-2014. Eligibility: A bachelor’s degree and at least five years of managerial experience in an industry. Preferably be 45 years of age or under Should not have been in the US during the past three years on a teaching, research, study or professional assignment for a continuous period of three months or more, at the time of submitting the application. Produce an undertaking from the employer that it would be willing to bear 50 per cent of the total cost. (Applications without this undertaking will not be considered). What it covers: J-1 visa support Round-trip economy class air ticket between the executive’s home town/city of work in India and Pittsburgh Tuition fees Maintenance allowance in the US Settling-in allowance Accident and sickness coverage per US Government guidelines The employers should be willing to bear 50 per cent ($ 18,850) of the total cost ($ 37,700), of the management programme at the Carnegie Mellon University’s Tepper School of Business, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA, from May 22-July 30, 2013. How to apply: Email Deadline: November 15, 2012. Check out: www.usief.org.in University of Lethbridge University of Lethbridge offers India Student Scholarships for pursuing Bachelor of Management Degree in Canada. The Faculty of Management at the university offers five scholarships worth $4,000 CAD each. Eligibility: Students from India entering year one of the Bachelor of Management degree programme. Value: $1,000 scholarship upon admission, based on admission average $1,000 in the student’s second year of studies, contingent on maintaining a minimum 3.00 grade point average (on the U of L’s 4-point scale, equivalent to a B average) in the first year of studies $1,000 in the student’s third year of studies, contingent on maintaining a minimum 3.00 grade point average (on the U of L’s 4-point scale, equivalent to a B average) in the second year of studies $1,000 in the student’s fourth year of studies, contingent on maintaining a minimum 3.00 grade point average (on the U of L’s 4-point scale, equivalent to a B average) in the third year of studies. How to apply: Online. Deadline: The deadline to apply is May 1 for Fall semesters and November 1 for Spring semesters. Check out: www.uleth.ca/managemnt/scholarships-awards
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INSPIRE Fellowship for GADVASU scholar
Dr. Gousia Nazir, a Ph.D scholar in the department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, COVS, GADVASU, Ludhiana has been awarded the Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) fellowship by the Department of Science and Technology.
INSPIRE fellowships are provided to scholars to pursue higher studies in different fields of science and engineering, including Agriculture and Veterinary Science in basic and applied sciences.
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diplomas and certifications: media If you can’t wait to be a part of the bustling media industry, then check out the various short-term courses that will equip you well for a job Usha Albuquerque Mass communications is an ideal career for those who like to express themselves, are interested and involved in the world around them, are creative and curious, brimming with ideas and enjoy working with people. Entry can be at different levels into a career where creativity and strong communication skills matter more than formal qualifications. There are degree and diploma courses in Mass Communication that normally cover training in all forms of media, including advertising and public relations, TV, radio and filmmaking. You can specialise in the field of your choice. However, many diploma and certificate courses for school leavers help one to develop the necessary job skills focused on employment.
There are a number of institutions around the country that offer diploma and certificate courses in different aspects of television technology, anchoring, script writing, video editing, camera work and so on. Some are at the undergraduate level and require a minimum pass in Plus II. Many of these institutes provide hands-on training and equip you with the necessary skills. It is also possible to pick up jobs through internships and gain hands-on experience, but formal training in this area could, help to discipline and sharpen inherent skills and thus prove beneficial in the long run. Of all communications media today, radio and television together are the most powerful. There are a large number of channels that air different types of programmes. This has resulted in the mushrooming of video studios with sophisticated equipment providing a range of services, and consequently career opportunities for those with technical training in this field. Other jobs in this field could include recording of music in audio and video format, specialisations in sound and/or lighting for live and recorded programmes, design, manufacture and sales of hardware and software for home entertainment, such as video games, compact discs, etc, production of advertising commercials as well as numerous new areas such as interactive videos and tele-conferencing. Careers in television and film don’t require any specific educational qualification, although a diploma/degree in television and film or a course in video editing will enable you to understand the basic concepts of filming, camera-work, sound, lighting and editing and provide the technical knowledge of the different software involved. You can get into TV and film with any subject background or qualification. Creativity is the main requirement, and a keen eye for detail, imagination, a critical mind, and the ability to work well as part of a team are the other desirable attributes. General computer literacy and an aptitude for working with digital equipment is also important. There are a number of institutions around the country that offer diploma and certificate courses in different aspects of television technology, anchoring, script writing, video editing, camera work and so on. There are courses that teach you to work with cameras and sound and lighting equipment, direct short films or work on animation design and gaming. Video editing courses include theoretical instructions, as well as practical exercises using the dedicated editing software, and other post-production techniques. Most institutes train candidates to work with professional grade linear and non-linear editing equipment and handle the ever-changing tools used within the process of video editing. Animation and multimedia is a world in which creative people use text, graphics, animation, audio and video with computer interactivity to create new visual and virtual worlds. Animation with special effects (SFX) is a complete teamwork effort and involves a combination of a wide variety of career combinations. So one can work as a content developer, modeler layout artist, clean-up artist, scanner operator, digital ink and paint artist, compositor, key frame animator, background artist and so on - every role being crucial for the successful creation of an animated project. Today there are a variety of multimedia software programmes such as Maya, 3D Studio Max, Adobe After Effects, Giff Animator, Flash which generate movement with great precision and reality. There are any number of long and short duration courses in animation and multimedia being offered by computer and animation institutes. These courses can range from three months to two years and can be taken up right after passing out from school. Training can also be in the form of courses in Art or Design, which include training in computer animation. The course content mainly includes training in aspects of Interactive Multimedia and Non-interactive Multimedia that prepare students for careers in animation, multimedia, special effects, games, and computer and web-based education. With the growth of the TV and entertainment industry, another field of media that is growing rapidly is event management. There is no specific course, neither degree nor diploma, that guarantees entry into event management. But a professional diploma in PR/Advertising/Mass Communications/Sales and Marketing or even in Business Management at under graduate or post-graduate level certainly does help. Some companies hire school leavers and graduates with a general education. Of course in such a people-oriented business you must have an attractive personality and a liking for meeting and inter-acting with people. Loads of initiative, some creative talent and a good sense of salesmanship also go a long way With the growing spread and clout of the media networks there is a wide spectrum of job openings for all those with starry dreams of being in the limelight, acting in television serials or anchoring talk shows. But that’s only the thin icing on the cake. The rest of the pie includes just about everything you can imagine it takes to put together a programme — directors, producers, engineers, technicians, journalists, writers, researchers, computer animators, script editors, videotape editors, set designers etc. Institute Watch
Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune Dr.
A.J. Kidwai Mass Communication Research Centre (MCRC), Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi Indian Institute of
Mass Communication, New Delhi Amity School of Communication (ASCO) Xavier's Institute of Communication, Mumbai Asian Academy of Film and Television, Noida Film and Television Institute of Tamil Nadu, Chennai IGNOU School of Journalism and New Media Studies, New Delhi Satyajit Ray Film and TV Institute, Calcutta Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan, Kasturba Gandhi Marg, New Delhi, and other cities Arena Animation,
in several cities
Some certificate and diploma courses in Media at undergraduate level
Production and Direction
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farms and fields: ornamental fish farming Vaneet Inder Kaur Breeding and culturing ornamental fish is fast becoming a lucrative option for ‘fish farmers’as one can find aquariums in restaurants, homes, schools, offices and shops nowadays. Till now, breeding and culture of ornamental fish in India was concentrated in and around big cities like Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai, which are contributing a very meager quantity i.e. 0.008 per cent to the global trade. The export of ornamental fish from India is confined to freshwater varieties coming from north-eastern states (85 per cent) and a few species of exotic varieties (15 per cent). The ‘wild’ collection contributes 95 per cent to this trade and thus in order to sustain the growth in this sector, there is an immediate need to shift the focus from capture to culture system. Over the past few years, the demand for ornamental fish has increased substantially in Punjab as the number of people interested in having aquariums in their homes has gone up. Many different varieties of ornamental fish are available in the markets. But most of these are being procured from cities like Kolkata, Mumbai or Chennai. With the increasing awareness, fish farmers, entrepreneurs and urban/rural women are coming forward to take up fish culture, and especially of the ornamental fish. A number of farmers are resorting to this as the weather conditions in Punjab are suitable for culture and the breeding of important ornamental fish species. Hence there is great scope to develop this venture on commercial scale in Punjab. Ornamental fish culture and breeding for seed production can be taken up together or separately depending upon the available resources. Only culture by importing seed of different varieties. Only breeding and seed production. Both culture and seed production. Rearing/culture units There is no need for elaborate rearing arrangements for the culture of these species. Small sized (20 m 2 to 2000 m) tanks, cement cisterns (in shady place), glass aquaria, small-size nursery ponds (earthen or cemented) etc. can be utilised as culture/rearing tanks. The spawning tank/nurseries (after the removal of parents) are being used as rearing tanks. Single species rearing is being carried out in rearing units. Bore well water is being utilised for rearing. These fish attain marketable size in about four to six months. By following proper rearing and management practices, four to six crops per year are being produced regularly. Requirements for setting up units For small scale unit: Different sizes of aquaria and accessories; cemented cisterns; fish seed/brooders; fish feed; regular water and electricity supply etc. For large scale unit: Field equipments like aeration devices, filters, water pump; different sizes of aquaria and its accessories; cemented cisterns (for stock); fish seed/brooders; fish feed; regular water and electricity supply etc. Along with the routine activity of culture and breeding, other ancillary activities such as export of fish, supply of accessory apparatus such as filters, aerators, plants, feed etc can also be taken up. Likewise, after getting expertise in different techniques, one can go for aquarium maintenance established at different places Returns Thus, with the availability of land (300-500 sq ft) and an investment of Rs 75,000 (with a capital and recurring investment of Rs 50,000 and 25,000, respectively) one can get a return of Rs 50,000 per year from a backyard small-scale ornamental fish culture unit. Thus, the culture and breeding of ornamental fish can be taken up as a small scale enterprise as it does not require any sophisticated equipment, instrument or infrastructure. The only basic requirement is a thorough knowledge of the culture and biology of breeding of these species. So after getting proper training, one can successfully adopt this enterprise. — The writer is Assistant Scientist (Fisheries), Department of Aquaculture, College of Fisheries, GADVASU, Ludhiana Business angle of a hobby
Culturing and keeping ornamental fish under restricted conditions that started as a stress-relieving hobby (in 1805) is now a thriving commercial avenue. The growing popularity of aquarium fish has resulted in steady increase in global trade with a turn over of $ 9 billion. This is growing at a rate of 14 per cent per year. At present, the market for ornamental fish for public aquaria is less than 1 per cent and over 99 per cent is confined to hobbyists the world over.
Training edge
The College of Fisheries Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana has taken initiative for the development of this sector. Scientists at GADVASU have successfully developed the culture and breeding technology of various ornamental fish species like Gold fish (Carassius auratus Var. Comet, Shubunkin, Red head), Koi Carp (Cyprinus Carpio), Molly and Guppy (Poecilia sp.), Platy and Sword tail (Xiphophorus sp.) The breeding trials of these species are carried out regularly and seed is being supplied to the hobbyists and culturists. The college is also actively engaged in imparting training on culture and seed production of ornamental fish species (twice a year), so that the trainees (including women) can adopt this as a large scale culture and breeding unit or small scale backyard activity.
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On cloud nine
The course: The course is specifically designed to provide in-depth specialised knowledge on planning, designing, deployment and management of Public and Private Cloud technology products and services comprising of Windows Server, Virtualisation, Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), platform as a service (PaaS),Software as a Service (SaaS), Designing cloud applications using Windows Azure, System Center 2012, Cloud based databases, Cloud Management, Service provisioning and security tools and cloud based applications like MSOffice 365 etc. Type of course (certificate/diploma):
Certificate Duration : 400 Hrs Fee: Rs 55,000 Deadline:
As per batch schedule Number of seats: Maximum 20 seats per batch Check out:
http://www.talentedge.in Diploma in Interior Design JD Institute of Fashion Technology, has announced admissions for Diploma in Interior Design course. The course: This one-year diploma programme focuses on planning and designing of interior spaces for all kinds of human needs. The students create designs keeping in mind the cultural and demographical differences. It is in depth learning programme giving the students an insight of the industry and enhancing their skills based on the contemporary interior design styles. Eligibility: Plus II from a recognised board in any discipline. Students appeared in Plus II exam and waiting for the result
may also apply. How to apply: Application forms are available at all the branches of JD Institute of Fashion Technology across India. Forms can also be downloaded from www.jdinstitute.com Deadline: October 15, 2012. Check Out: www.jdinstitute.com
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office mantra: handling conflict at workplace Ragini Gulati A workplace comprises individuals from varied background working together towards specific goals. Unfortunately, it is not possible for everyone to get along and there is bound to be friction. Although conflicts are healthy to a certain extent, long running differences can prove to be harmful. Disagreement with co-workers not only leads to stress and frustration but also hits productivity. The key to successful conflict resolution is challenging the person’s behaviour rather than the individual himself. Make a fresh start with the co-worker concerned by engaging in a polite conversation. Sort out all the differences and reach a compromise which is acceptable to everyone. Keep calm Although easier said than done, it is essential to remain calm and collected irrespective of the situation. Conflicts cannot be resolved in the flush of emotions such as rage and frustration. Demonstrating anger through aggressive behaviour or raised voice can escalate a discussion into a fight. As a consequence refrain from approaching the co-worker whilst being upset. Instead put some time and space between yourself and the ordeal to calm down. Step back, take deep breaths and choose response rather than just reacting impulsively. This technique will reduce the intensity of emotions and help regain self-control. Moreover, cooling off will give you an opportunity to think rationally and make talking to the colleague easier. Address immediately One of the most important aspects of successfully resolving conflicts is to address them on priority. It is a natural tendency to ignore the tension and pretend that everything is normal. However, it is best to resolve issues right at the beginning rather than letting them blow up. Molehills can grow into mountains and waiting for the other person to make the first move and admit their mistake. As a result it is essential to interrupt the ‘waiting game’ before it gets worse. Seek to understand the position that the conflicting individual is taking. Make an attempt to gain insight into their views and how they came to their conclusion. Moreover, one should realise that everybody’s opinion should be valued equally. Fix meeting An important aspect of resolving conflicts is to determine the other person’s perspective of the issue. Request a meeting with the co-worker in a civil manner to clear up misunderstandings. Approach them in a way that is least likely to incite more anger or resentment. A hurried conversation at the desk between emails and phone-calls will not solve anything. Find a location which is both neutral and private to address the situation. Since talking about the conflict in public can be embarrassing, opt for the privacy of a conference room. Also lunch hour at a place where distractions of the office do not interfere with the discussion can be considered. However avoid scheduling the meeting when tempers are still boiling. Listen During a heated discussion listening can be the most difficult thing, yet it is vital to reach a resolution. Moreover, if you are not willing to hear the other person, then you can’t expect them to listen to you also. Keep the conversation free of hostilities by giving the co-worker a chance to speak. Let them talk till they are able to get whatever is bothering them off their chest. Refrain from defending yourself or interrupting even if you have something to say. Show that you are listening intently by making direct eye contact and nodding occasionally. Most importantly paraphrase what the colleague has said before explaining your own position. It will reflect that you have not only heard but also understood them. Brainstorm The key factor in resolving disagreements is the willingness of the clashing parties to seek a compromise. Work to find a solution that lets both sides emerge from the conflict as winners. Before airing your own thoughts give the co-worker an opportunity to speak out. Subsequent to listening to their ideas write down the pros and cons of each perspective. Stick to the issue at all times since it can be tempting to bring up past concerns. Sometimes discussion alone can diffuse tension since both parties get a chance to talk. However, dialogue is not the same as creating an actual solution for the problem at hand. Figure out an option that is acceptable to everyone and resolve the conflict amiably. Involve mediator Sometimes problems get out of control and cannot be resolved by mutual discussion alone. When every effort to reach a compromise fails, request a third party to play the role of a mediator. Approach a neutral individual who can effectively decipher the issue and also provide neutrality. Most importantly the said person should be trusted by those involved in the conflict. The mediator could be immediate supervisor, HR manager or a coworker. However take care whilst making the selection since the person can do more harm than good. As a consequence an individual who has mediation experience or undergone training should be preferred. A good mediator can help the disputants find their own solution, rather than pushing them towards it.
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Use your fire wisely
D. C. Sharma Energy sublimation helps in building successful careers. This novel technique guides employees to achieve rare heights. By practising it one can achieve progress, prosperity, and power. Here is how one can sublimate the energy that one would otherwise squander. Noted psychologist Carl Jung clarified that sublimation of energy is essential for making bright careers. True sublimation is not a voluntary and forcible channeling of instinct into an artificial field of application. It’s a transformation for which fire and material are needed. There are just two words that guarantee a flourishing career. The first one is ‘fire’ and the second is ‘material’. Many career aspirants have sufficient material to achieve their objective. But they lack the fire. In achieving a goal, neither fire nor material alone can work. It is the coordination between both that is needed. In training institutes, and at workplaces, people often indulge in gossiping. Most of their gossiping is either useless, or is to criticise those who are doing better than them. Such gossip mongers never realise that they are squandering useful energy. This casual aimless activity not only wastes their precious time, but is also extremely harmful for their mental health. One should learn to ignite the fire and be intensely passionate about one’s aim. Here are a few steps to do this: Positive ‘fire’ Observe how the achievers whom you criticise do their work. Jealousy can be a powerful “fire” if channeled positively. So instead of criticising the achievers, start praising them. And praise them sincerely. The more sincerely you praise, the better you will sublimate that flame of energy, to move on to new heights. Useful ‘material’ Now it comes to finding the right material for that fire to work with? For this you simply have to look within. Find out why you have been jealous of other achievers. What did they get that you couldn’t and it made you go green with envy. That same is the goal for you. You envy the officer occupying the chair which you actually wanted to get. Now observe how that officer got that chair? Also note the qualities which that officer possesses. You will discover how he/she had been doing the job in hand, and how much interest that person has been taking in doing that! Go deeper and deeper before the material for the burning fire comes to the fore. You will discover that instead of doing something, you had only been burning your material with that fire earlier! With practice, you will feel that there is always someone inside your head guiding you at every step. Now feel the presence of that constant companion. That inner self is guiding you at every step, everywhere, and always. But while you had been ignoring that earlier, now learn to depend upon that true guide and friend. No wonder, most of the career aspirants, even experienced officers, ignore that ‘small voice’. Once you realise the fact, that both the material and the fire are within you, and you only need to cook the delicacies most suitable to your career health by using rightful ways and means then success will be your companion always. When you start feeling the presence of someone wise with you, rest assured that your energy has been properly sublimated. Now you will follow only the way you love to do a job. You will always do the right thing and be in control of the situations rather than situations being in control of you. You will learn to laugh even at your defeat and negativity will be out of your life. You won’t go all out to please others when you are doing your best. You will be surprised how your own energy that was going against you earlier gets spared and sublimated for your maximum achievement.
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Arrogance
While good bosses are deemed trustworthy, the worst quality in a boss, according to employees, is arrogance, researchers say. The new study, which examines the defining characteristics of employees’ best and worst bosses, also found that bad leaders are most often described as arrogant.
Great bosses, conversely, were most often described as trustworthy, responsible, inspirational and tactful, with the ability to remain calm under pressure. With past research showing more than half of leaders will fail, Natalie Tracy, director of marketing for Hogan Assessment Systems, which conducted the research, said it’s important to understand what makes employees love or despise their managers. “Poor leadership causes reduced engagement, increased turnover and even poor health among employees,” Tracy said. “With a better understanding of what separates good leaders from bad, organisations can take a closer look at who is in charge,” she added. The study discovered that employees find it important to like their boss and consider it just as essential that their boss likes them. — ANI
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Time for a makeover
In successful organisations, marketing isn’t one group’s responsibility, everyone should be involved. To orient your employees towards marketing, persuade them that the best thing they can do for the company (and themselves) is to think of new ways to satisfy the firm’s most profitable customers. Provide training that highlights the importance of a marketing orientation. If you don’t have the right talent in place, bring in some strong outside marketers with substantial experience.” — Adapted from the Harvard ManageMentor Online Module: Marketing Essentials.
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Happiness @ work In this age of fast life and fast food, keeping heat-it-to-eat-it food in the refrigerator is the norm. So why shy away from employing this idea at work? Preparing the dough before the cooking starts allows the cook to do more.
By crowning Vibheeshan even before the start of the war with Ravana, Lord Rama knew that the war was half won. The move not only split the Rakshasha camp but Vibheeshan turned out to be a useful ally as he knew their weak points and secrets. When Subhas Chandra Bose realised that only an armed struggle could save India, he decided to go overseas. Luckily for him, Rash Behari Bose had already formed the Indian Independence League in 1924. Its military wing of 40,000 men was named the Indian National Army in the Bangkok Conference of 1942. Subhas took over from Rash Behari on July 4, 1943 and on March 18, 1944, the INA entered Kohima. As Arjuna knew that war with the Kauravas was inevitable, he procured celestial weapons from Lord Shiva and Indra. When he realised that the Pandavas, as a result of a smaller army, had little chance of winning it in the conventional way, he got the services of Lord Krishna. Prince Arul of Tanjavur knew that his route to the throne had too many hurdles — his elder brother Aditya Karikalan and his uncle Uttama Chola were ahead of him in the queue to kingdom. So he decided to strengthen his case by good deeds. After defeating King Mahendra of Lanka, he let him go. This made his soldiers admire him for his chivalry. Then he handed over the crown to his uncle after the death of his father and brother thereby earning his uncle’s respect. Later, he ascended the throne as Raja Raja Chola with his sister Kundavai as co-ruler. Besides South India and Lakshadweep, his empire extended to Ceylon and Maldives. Kishan Singh of Banga village near Lahore was amused to see his little son ‘working hard’ in the fields. When asked what crop he was sowing, little Bhagat Singh said, “Rifles — to free my country.” What he did till the age of 23 — when he died for the country — cannot be matched by most even in 10 lifetimes. Don’t forget to warm up before the game! — Sai R. Vaidyanathan The writer can be contacted at svaidyanathan@tribunemail.com
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Fortnightly quiz 423
1. Which city in Pakistan recently renamed a roundabout after freedom fighter Bhagat Singh to acknowledge his revolutionary spirit and role in the movement against the British rule in the subcontinent?
2. Name the world’s highest and one of the toughest motor car rallies? 3. Which two states of India are going to the polls in November and December? 4. How many years have been completed by the James Bond movies? 5. Name the author of the book ‘Casual Vacancy’. 6. What is the strike range of Prithvi II, capable of launching nuclear and conventional warheads weighing 500 kg? 7. Which country has the maximum number of leprosy patients in the world? 8. Where is the Guantanamo Bay prison situated? 9. Name the 12-year-old schoolgirl in England whose IQ has been accepted to be more than that of Albert Einstein and Professor Stephen Hawking? 10. Which country won the ICC Twenty20 World Cup tournament recently? — Tarun Sharma Winners of quiz 422: The first prize by draw of lots goes to Vijayeta Kaushal, Class VII, Aryan Public School, Sunni, district Shimla (HP), Pin Code 171301 Second: Vareyam Singh Bhogal, Class VIII, Alpine Public School, near NM College, opposite Mehak Hotel, Mansa, Pin Code 151505 Third: Saima Rashid, Class X-A, Holy Family Convent School, Ropar Pin Code – 141001 Answers to quiz 422: Sunita Williams; Endeavour; Barfi!; China and Japan; Salman Rushdie; Cambodia; Wal-Mart; Himachal Pradesh; Formula One racing; Andy Murray 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
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Innovation challenge
Students can apply for the sixth annual “Henkel Innovation Challenge”. The participants will be required to develop a concept for an innovative and sustainability-related product or technology for a Henkel brand, according to the vision and market needs in 2050. The challenge is open to students of all subjects, including economics, engineering and natural sciences. Students from all over the world including teams from 12 European countries, nine Asian-Pacific countries, four Latin American and North American countries will compete for a final place in the challenge. Coinciding with the start of the new academic year, students are invited to develop innovative ideas in teams of two – for one of Henkel’s business areas: Adhesive Technologies, Beauty Care or Laundry & Home Care. New this year: the concepts must be in alignment with Henkel’s sustainability strategy under the theme “Achieving more with less”. Deadline: Interested students can register until December 12, at www.henkelchallenge.com. Additional test dates for TOEFEL As students begin to prepare their admissions applications for the 2013 academic year, Educational Testing Service (ETS) has added two additional TOEFL test administrations in India for November 25 and December 15, 2012. TOEFL, the most widely accepted English-language assessment worldwide, measures an individual’s ability to use and understand English at the university level and assesses how a student combines the reading, listening, writing and speaking skills needed to succeed in an academic setting. Currently, more than 8,500 institutions in more than 130 countries accept TOEFL scores, including nearly every college and university in the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the USA. Registration for the TOEFL test is available at http://www.ets.org/toefl/ibt/register/. Test takers have the opportunity to register for the TOEFL test up to three months in advance.
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Dr. Gousia Nazir, a Ph.D scholar in the department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, COVS, GADVASU, Ludhiana has been awarded the Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) fellowship by the Department of Science and Technology.
one can find aquariums in restaurants, homes, schools, offices and shops nowadays.
Till now, breeding and culture of ornamental fish in India was concentrated in and around big cities like
Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai, which are contributing a very meager quantity i.e. 0.008 per cent to the global trade.
The export of ornamental fish from India is confined to freshwater varieties coming from north-eastern states (85 per cent) and a few species of exotic varieties (15 per cent).
A workplace comprises individuals from varied background working together towards specific goals. Unfortunately, it is not possible for everyone to get along and there is bound to be friction. Although conflicts are healthy to a certain extent, long running differences can prove to be harmful.
Disagrement with co-workers not only leads to stress and frustration but also hits productivity. The key to successful conflict resolution is challenging the person’s behaviour rather than the individual himself.
success sutra: mind power
A. Most certainly you can opt for a PG course after completing the Graduate Diploma Programme in Design (GDPD) from the National Institute of Design (NID). In most cases, students passing out from the GDPD don't necessarily need to pursue a PG programme if they are working in the design area. Those who do choose to pursue a PG programme do so after working for a couple of years and use it to either switch design areas or super-specialise in an area of their choice.
A.You can take the Combined Defence Services Exam for which any graduate from a recognised university in the country is eligible. You need to have scored a minimum of 60 per cent in graduation and should be betweeen 19-23 years old, to be able to take this exam. This exam is conducted twice a year by the Union Public Service Commission, generally in September and February. You can get all information about this exam on www.upsc.gov.in
MSc. in botany/geology or equivalent subject with high academic attainment at graduate and postgraduate levels.
You can join a polytechnic and learn mass communication and video production, event management, or video editing. If you are good with computers then you could even consider multimedia and animation design. Most of these diplomas are available at the undergraduate level and are suitable for those who are interested in picking up the necessary vocational skills, and are not looking for the more demanding academic degree programme that is more competitive, of longer duration, and may not include a practical component. So you could undertake a two or three-year diploma that includes work experience and be ready to start working after finishing the course. 
Students looking for cloud computing courses can check out TalentEdge’s Excel-in-IT (Cloud Computing) course. Increased business revenue from the IT innovation enabled by Cloud could reach $1.1 trillion a year by 2015. IDC estimates that spending on public and private IT cloud services will generate nearly 14 million jobs worldwide by 2015 and a majority of these jobs will be found in emerging markets because of their immense workforces — 1.2 million workers in China and India alone
Other qualities that lead to a worker’s dislike of their supervisor are being manipulative, emotionally volatile, micromanaging, passive-aggressive and distrustful of others. The study by personality research and leadership development firm Hogan Assessment Systems, which was based on surveys of 1,000 employees, showed that the average employee would be willing to return to work with fewer than half of their former bosses.
To consolidate his empire in a land where Hindus formed the majority, Mughal Emperor Akbar married the daughter of Raja Bihari Mal, the Rajput King of Amber; took part in Hindu festivals; abolished jaziya tax on Hindu pilgrims; had Hindus like Birbal, Tansen, Todar Mal, Maan Singh in high offices; and even met saints Mirabai and Soordas.
