Reflections about 2021 from my vantage point

1.????Illusion of control – Contemporary narratives, personal ego and b-school education, all compel me to want to project that I am in full control of the outcomes of my business. Reality is a bit different. First the massive pandemic driven Tsunami of 2020 which crushed businesses overnight, and then the unimaginable surge of 2021 which threw at us happier challenges, makes me wonder how much can we really control in uncertain times? At best, we can keep the ship steady in the storm and adjust the sails to make the most if there are tailwinds. But neither the storm nor the winds were our doing! Our internal compasses however will guide us through pitch darkness and blinding light. That is all I control. Humbled by life yet again!

2.?????Gratitude – We have all witnessed colossal human tragedy all around us. Sometimes so very close to us. 2021 has been heartbreaking. I am immensely grateful to have gotten this far alive. Yet again it makes me appreciate everything that I have, none of which I take for granted. Grateful also to have witnessed the best of humanity from close quarters. Giant human beings standing up to help perfect strangers in their hour of need. Rallying resources from across the planet to ensure the immense tragedy that befell us between March and June, spares some from its jaws. I am wealthier to having made acquaintance with this unbelievable goodness behind so many familiar and strange faces. It has been a life lesson.?

3.?????Fool’s Gold – As a headhunter, I am privy to many job opportunities and career decisions. 2021 saw a windfall of jobs open up, especially for those in the technology sector. It is common knowledge that many (actually most) candidates secure multiple offers and go with the one that pays them the best. I have witnessed unprecedented numbers being offered and then being surpassed by another employer to woo the candidate at the last minute. It will not be unfair to say that “having the Candidate’s word” has lost all meaning in 2021. However, that is not my biggest grouse with the situation. Where I think, scores of candidates are losing out is in becoming obsessed with the numbers alone. Basing one’s decision to select a potential employer basis only the salary is indeed akin to being misled by the glitter of Pyrite (Fool’s Gold) and thinking it is Gold. The whole package does not end at the CTC (Cost to the Company) OR Annual Salary, but must always extend to:

a.????Alignment with personal life

b.????Alignment with career goals / direction

c.????Job content

d.????Future prospects and employability

e.????Culture of the employer

f.?????Ability to pursue other interests / priorities (hobbies, family life, health regimen etc.)

?If you want a number driven approach to evaluate an opportunity, ascribe a Rupee / Dollar value to each of these. Some of these may be invaluable for you. Do not post-pone life for career.??????????

I would also consider two other questions if presented with a seemingly unbelievable opportunity is “What is the catch?” OR “Can I add that much value to the company?”. But that would be a buzz kill in this season.

Looking forward to what life has in store in 2022 and beyond with great curiosity!

Thanks for reading. Wish you a happy new year!