Case Studies & Testimonials
Raj Laxmi
Raj Laxmi was in the middle of her degree in Political Science and uncertain about her career choices after graduation. Our career counsellor helped her choose a path that suited both her aptitude and aspirations.
"After finishing my degree, I wanted to know the realistic chances of getting a job and what kind of areas I should look at. There is no career guidance facility at my college so I decided to get some professional advice from someone who could confirm what I'd heard about the current job market."
"Monika Vats, a career professional, was recommended by a family friend who had been in the same situation. "I enjoyed the career assessment done by Monika; it was quite interesting and fun. I put a lot of time and it was really exciting to find in the assessment report about what I was interested in and the career possibilities."
Welcoming and hospitable
"When it came to my day at the place of the career counsellor I found her welcoming and hospitable. The tests in the morning were challenging but in a good way. It sometimes seemed very abstract and not directly relevant but later I realise they are assessing different values and aptitudes that are relevant to my choice of career."
"There were certain careers such as journalism or publishing that I had considered but had reservations about. On the day we were able to question those reservations and see whether they held up. My abilities showed that I was an all-rounder, which wasn't that helpful in deciding for itself, but the results also highlighted what my work attitudes were like. It became apparent that journalism or publishing was not a suitable career as they are both very competitive and I'm not a very competitive person - I tend to like routine and helping others."
Different and challenging
"In the afternoon I again met with Monika who was generous with her time. She had reviewed my assessment report and was very experienced. We discussed previous office work that I'd done and she helped me realise that any other office-based jobs would be very similar. I wanted to take more of a chance and do something different and more challenging"
Heading in the right direction with confidence
"Monika helped confirm that my ideas about teaching either in further training with a BEd or further studies for an MA and Doctorate, were definitely in the right direction, and that, my passions were more centred on further education."
"It was really helpful advice. It feels like we're in quite an insecure time and before I meet Monika, my career choices were looking very wide and ambiguous. I feel very confident now that I'm going in the right direction."
Shruti
Boredom, lack of satisfaction and a desire for direction led Shruti to seek the help of a career counsellor. Her creativity and enjoyment of the visual arts led her to study architecture, and having graduated from a reputed university with an excellent degree, she set off on the employment road as an architect for a local practice.
Though she enjoyed the artistic side of her work, she felt that her job did not challenge her, nor did it offer her what she had expected.
"I'd describe my work as monotonous and repetitive," she said to our career counsellor. "There's no distinct career path for promotion or remuneration, and I have no interest in going on with the further degree that's expected of me. I feel trapped." Shruti knew that a career in architecture was not for her, but had no idea what she could be doing instead.
"I want to be a success, but my knowledge of the job market is limited. I want to meet more people and increase my earning potential with a more active, creative and social career." - she explained.
Working with our CCP Alok Kumar, Shruti discovered that she had unrecognised strengths and talents. After conducting a career assessment, the comprehensive report suggested that Shruti could consider a role in marketing, where her enterprising abilities and her creative skills could be combined.
Six months on, and Shruti has undergone a complete career change - she is indeed working in marketing, for a multi-national corporation, and has never been so happy.
"With the guidance of the career counsellor, I am on a path I'd never before considered - and loving every minute of it. I am challenged and fulfilled, and I am finally enjoying going to work every day."
Mathew
Mathew was in his late twenties when he came to meet our career professional. He was working in the branch office of a major food retailer as part of an MBA scheme and having realised that the industry was not for him, declined job offers from the retailer and its competitors. He wanted to move on to a new and fresh challenge and sought guidance on how best to achieve that.
Three years on, he runs a leading online hotel booking agency, generating a healthy profit every year. "I wanted to run my own business in a sector that interested me," says Mathew, "and my consultation with the career counsellor gave me the confidence that I would be able to do that."
After his first interaction, he spent most of the following year researching his business ideas and then trading stocks, before taking the plunge and starting up his own business.
"Meeting with my career counsellor (Jasmine) was a major turning point for me," he adds. "The career assessment and the review session enlightened me about myself, my motivations, my goals and the way I am. "I feel that I'm now being courageous again with my life, and have set myself more challenges, both short and long-term, to enable me to get the best from myself, my time and my career."
Jawahar
Deciding what 10+2 subjects to take is difficult for most students. As a 15-year-old, Jawahar wanted guidance in choosing between science-based and a broader range of other streams. On a friend's recommendation, he came with his parents to meet our career professional (Sunil Sharma).
At his meeting with the career counsellor, Jawahar took a range of psychometric tests, assessing his aptitude, ability and work attitude. He says now, "I had been concerned that science subjects would prove to limit for me. Then my profile showed that social science would suit me well, and the career counsellor helped me reaffirm my real choices."
After enrolling in the Arts stream and receiving top marks for all of them, Jawahar got admission to a prestigious college at Delhi University, where he was awarded a first-class degree in Psychology. At this stage, he decided that a career in law was the path for him and applied for a law degree course.
After enrolling in the Arts stream and receiving top marks for all of them, Jawahar got admission to a prestigious college at Delhi University, where he was awarded a first-class degree in Psychology. At this stage, he decided that a career in law was the path for him and applied for a law degree course.
Sushila
Sushila is a BCom graduate from Agra University. Her career began in a manufacturing unit, where she was appointed junior accountant at the age of 23. Following her MBA, she joined an accountancy firm - as an Associate. When she spoke to our career professional, she was concerned about a range of aspects of her work as a consultant like the work-life balance, the internal politics of the consultancy and opportunities for promotion. Sushila wanted to take a step back and consider whether the world of consultancy was for her.
Sushila embarked on a career assessment programme. Our career professional (Adil) reviewed her strengths and competency areas and matched these to her preferences. He developed a theme for her preferred role, as 'working with and through others to solve problems creatively and recommending solutions based on thorough analysis' He then worked on identifying the preferred subject areas within any future role, and the sectors in which these might occur.
Next, they discussed the culture, values and style of the target organisation, and Sushila's needs for intellectual stimulus, a non-aggressive organisation providing mutual support and a caring, reflective style came to the fore.
The career counsellor shortlisted the ideal sectors like accounting, legal, financial services, consulting, government and NGO. He eventually concluded that consultancy remained Sushila's prime career focus and set about researching and identifying those consulting practices which much better satisfied her organisational culture and values requirements. Having done this, we tuned up Sushila's CV, developed interview techniques and identified a range of job opportunities through networking.
Sushila is now much happier and is working as a senior consultant with a major and highly regarded accountancy MNC.
Some Unsolicited testimonials
For every winner, there's a coach. When you tell us how valuable our help has been and you appreciate it that means a lot to us. Below are just a few comments...
Mayuri
I had mixed my emotions and career and you pulled me out of the cave. Your advice was an eye-opener. You taught me to differentiate between right and wrong.
Jaideep
Dear Sir, you are a very special person to me - you have given me a new meaning of life that I will always cherish and hold close to my heart. I just wanted to write and tell you how much we all in my family appreciate your career counselling at a personal and professional level. It has changed my approach to life. Thank you so much for that.
Reetu
When my roommate first discussed the email, she had received, I doubted its authenticity and was hesitant even to reply to the email. I thought I didn't need such stuff. But after 10-15 days, one of my friends told me about you and we decided to call you once. You have helped me to get a job in Oracle - what I used to think of as daydreaming. I am not sure if I can accurately communicate my appreciation in words for all that you've provided in my life. Thank you, Ma'am, thank you and thank you a thousand times over.
Shyam
I was struggling, isolated from my family and frustrated a lot. I started doubting my abilities then suddenly my friend told me about Margdarshak, and I met a career counsellor. Her advice changed my life. Now I am very happy and contented with the job in a very good software company.
Ma's, you recognised the need to help me with my issues. You provided me with the strength when I needed it, to make decisions that were critical toward getting my career off the ground. Your positive attitude and keen sense of timing have been critical to my success. Thank you for your co-operation.
Shubha
Today whatever I am, the whole credit goes to Margdarshak, and it is the "Planning to Placements" Programme. My career counsellor sir is my guru in the real sense. I can openly suggest to anyone, don't hesitate, just contact Margdarshak; your one call will start a new chapter of success in your life. You try and you'll realise it yourself.
Ankita
I was working as a Software Developer in a small company in Kalkaji for just Rs 6000 pm and now I am getting 65,000 pm with the best working environment which was never possible without the active assistance of the career counsellor at Margdarshak. Participating in the "Planning to Placement" Programme was an excellent decision.
Charu
Dear Sir, when I was frustrated and started thinking that nothing good was going to happen, you restored my faith in me. Now I don't have hesitation to say that I respect you more than anyone. My parent spent money on my education but you taught me the real meaning of my life. Every day I remember your inspiring words.
Firoz
I was not happy with my current job and just passing the time for the last 16 months. But thank you, Ma'am, you have changed my life and from tomorrow I am going to join TCS, which is just like my wish fulfilled.
Deepika
I can't say enough about what your guidance and the "Planning to Placements" programme did for me. I got 4 job offers within 15 days and again I am seeking your advice on which company to join.
Gauri
I had posted my resume at various job portals but I was not getting a response from good companies. The help of the "Planning to Placements" programme of Margdarshak, it suddenly created a demand for me in the market. The way you promoted my talent and experience is fantastic. Now I am happily placed in a good MNC. Thank you to all the Margdarshak team for turning my dream into reality.
Jyoti
I can now say to you that the only question which remains is why didn't you send the email earlier when I was desperate in life
Mental
Without your extraordinary ability to guide me at every step of my career, I don't think I would have achieved the extent that I have done so. What else can I convey other than my absolute deepest gratitude?
Tanu
You showed me the path when I was wrong. In times of trouble, and in times of need, you were always there around me. Your silent service to the youth of the country is great. May God give you a long life to serve the nation.
Priya
I found you through the internet and I intend that through this media others will have the opportunity to know around the world all that you have to share.
Anjali
Before knowing you my life was directionless. You helped me to get my career on the right track and dramatically improve my circumstances. Please accept my sincere thanks for doing so much for me.
Yogesh
Sir, I feel very happy to admit that with your guidance I have been able to get a clear picture of my career and you have been with me at every step. I could not have got this job without your real and impartial advice. I always feel your presence and you continue to enlighten me as I move forward.
Sanjana
Dear Ma'am, your "Planning to Placement" programme is very informative and inspirational. I am glad that we have knowledgeable people like your career counsellors to push others to believe in them. You are bacon-light for many youths. I wanted to say thank you.
Kamal
I spent a lot of money while searching for a job and staying unemployed for a long period. But the small amount which I spent on Margdarshak’s "Planning to Placements" programme has changed my life forever. I highly recommend this to my friends and others willing to achieve true success in life.
Anumeha
I recently learnt about the "Planning to Placement" programme of Margdarshak through a friend and immediately contacted one of the career counsellors working there. I am happy to say that their genuine concern for job seekers is impressive. Within 6 days I got a job offer from an MNC with a salary almost double my expectations.
Priyanka
My career counsellor at Margdarshak was very good at analysing my details to create a framework for future career decisions. If anything I have rather a lot of options to explore but many of these will be down to my taste and/or family restrictions now rather than my ability to go in a particular direction. I was extremely satisfied with my career Advisor, who was warm, friendly and informative. The greatest impression she has left is that I am capable of forging a career for myself and as the report suggests, confidence in myself is one of my strongest areas. I was very satisfied with the career assessment report and I felt it was a very thorough analysis of myself. I am stunned by how high I came in many sections where I would not have thought my strengths lie.
Saurabh
My interaction with the career professional at Margdarshak opened my mind to different possibilities. The counsellor seemed to "get" me very well and suggested many careers I'd be interested in. I was looking for a change of career and found the suggestion of many different possible jobs, across a wide range, most useful, so I was able to specify in my head how big a change I would be willing to take.
Yasmin
I enjoyed my career counsellor's approach and feel that the process helped me to better understand myself. I’m very keen to move forward with the next stage of the process as soon as possible.
Radhika
I felt that everything I talked about with my career counsellor was relevant to me and how I want to work out my future at university and my career. The career assessment and aptitude tests were particularly useful.
Farha
Knowing more about my learning ability is useful, thank you. For example, I learn things better by experiencing actual things. A suggestion also offered me some help for overcoming my difficult situation, e.g. helpful and not controlling vs accepting and not relying.
Karan
I feel there is a clear ‘before’ and ‘after’ – since the careers counsellor experience, I have been approaching my career with greater focus and enthusiasm and exploring more ways in which I can improve myself. I was impressed by the comprehensive nature of the assessment – the discussion with my career advisor complimented the morning aptitude tests well.
Bhushan
Having all of my skills and weaknesses identified so clearly will be very beneficial when deciding what career path to take. The list of different career paths my career counsellor suggested is very interesting and has certainly given me new ideas about where to go from here. My career counsellor's suggestions of different career paths are very interesting and have certainly given me new ideas about where to go from here.
Rohan
It was extremely useful to be able to talk over the confusion I had been experiencing in my career with someone with the knowledge to guide me and make suggestions. The career assessment gave me an indication of the types of roles I should be looking for. I felt my career counsellor understood me and what I would need to be happy and successful in a job. She was very easy to talk to and gave good advice. My assessment report gave a thorough analysis of my aptitude and gave me a clear focus on the steps that I should take.
Tabassum
The assessment allowed me to know my real interests, abilities and work attitude. The approach offered by Margdarshak has provided me with a clear direction for the next step in my career. I am extremely satisfied with my career counsellor. The career guidance at the end of the assessment was the most beneficial part of the programme. The counsellor asked some probing questions about my interests and ambitions. Having considered my answers and the restrictions that my life may impose on any future career, the advisor then provided very clear insight as to what direction my next step should take. The counsellor also suggested careers that I would never have previously considered.
Dharmendra
I was very pleased with the career counsellor; it has helped me to streamline my options. Before I was a bit of a daydreamer, considering a different career route every day. I now have a far better idea of what I would be well suited to.
Abdul
I am extremely pleased with my experience with my career counsellor. She helped me to understand “me” and the way I feel about things and also helped me to see the “wood from the trees” in terms of future career moves. My career counsellor interpreted me very well and helped me dig deep to find out who I am and what I could do in the future.
Sunaina
I feel I have a much better understanding of my strengths, weaknesses and motivations for work. The career assessment was thorough and the insights were very accurate, even the ones that I was less comfortable with.
Gunjan
Career counsellor made me think about all of my needs from a job and what kind of skills I have. My advisor was very warm and friendly, made an effort to understand me and made me feel I had lots of choices. I'm now considering very different options from the ones I was considering before I came.
Hitesh
I feel that I have taken the first step in changing my career to do something I have always wanted to do and I appreciate all the help that you gave me, particularly my discussions with the career counsellor at Margdarshak. Without that, I doubt that I would have had the confidence to make the necessary changes, or even be able to sort out the options available to me. Now, I feel I have had a new lease on life and I am thoroughly enjoying it.
Jesika
My career advisor was very enthusiastic and understanding. Didn’t apply one formula – she gave me individual attention. The assessment report arrived very efficiently and was well laid out. My experience with a career counsellor is like holding up a mirror to yourself. She gave me a lot of encouragement and helped me see my strengths.
Lalit
By far the most valuable and revealing aspect of the whole experience was the personal guidance. The career counsellor was simply masterful in her exploration and understanding of my mind, far more so than I am myself. The careers that she was describing, and the way she was describing them, sounded exactly like the type of work I would like to be involved in later on in life.
Ambika
You helped me to find all my options and to think of careers on a bigger scale. The career assessment was particularly very useful – I thought it was fantastic.
Gudia
I must say it makes a great deal of difference – thank you very much for the enjoyable and informative interaction with the career counsellor.
Zeba
I just wanted to say thank you to you and your team for worthwhile, informative and thought-provoking career guidance. I felt as though some light started to appear at the end of a tunnel.
Thara
The career professional was a very intelligent, confident, interesting person. I enjoyed our conversation.
Mehar
I am pleased to say I now have a job and I am working for an educational organisation which I am enjoying. Thank you for your career planning for the placement programme.
Naina
I thought I would drop you a quick note to give you some feedback on my experience with the career counsellor. I was impressed by the way she started the conversation. She clearly understood my objectives and did a lot of research to make sure the advice she gave me was specific to my needs. This allowed my time with her to be productive and highly focused on what I wanted to achieve. The counsellor's insight into the specific job role I was looking for, combined with an uncanny ability to assess my aptitude, was truly remarkable. She helped me build confidence and understand what was driving me in my job search. I constantly try to analyse my job skills and look at how I can improve myself. The career counsellor took that to a completely different level and within an hour with her, it was clear I couldn't see the wood from the trees. The net result was that within a matter of weeks, I was able to secure a job in a completely different industry. I am extremely grateful to my career counsellor for helping me understand my vocation and future path. I would not hesitate to recommend your services.
Suhail
The career counsellor gave me realistic guidance according to the type of person I am and my education and experience. I think she was very accurate. I feel I have a number and a range of choices, and I understand the areas in which I would be successful. The career assessment report is quite enlightening.