Aarambh - Hexagrow -session on interview and cv prepration

Aarambh - Hexagrow -session on interview and cv prepration

1. AARAMBH IIM JAMMU Cracking the Interview Code and Transition to Corporate Life Truths vs. Myths Presented by: Pankaj Jain CEO, Hexagrow Consultants www.hexagrow.com

2. Pankaj Jain ‘PJ’ PJ brings over 20 years of global experience leading operational risk, regulatory change, and enterprise programs across a broad range of global organisations. PJ has deep domain  expertise and a track record of building high-performing teams and Governance frameworks. PJ helps clients navigate complex regulatory landscapes, execute on strategic changes whilst driving operational efficiency.  A Harvard Business School Advanced Management Program (AMP) graduate and respected industry speaker,  he blends strategic vision with strong execution excellence. Pankaj Jain founded Hexagrow Consultants to deliver sustainable solutions for complex governance, risk and compliance challenges. Our mission is - Long term value  protection for the enterprise, all stakeholders and partners.  Our team of experts are focused on delivering a strong tech enabled  governance, risk and compliance (GRC) ecosystem  to enable sustained growth for our clients across banking, financial services, insurance, technology, and public sector enterprises.

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4. “If you perform well, promotions will automatically follow.” Narrative: Many young professionals assume corporate life is purely meritocratic — that strong performance guarantees quick recognition and promotion. Research shows that while performance is necessary , it’s not sufficient . Visibility, networking, alignment with organizational priorities, and stakeholder management play equally critical roles. Example: A high-performing analyst at a consulting firm delivers flawless analyses but rarely presents directly to clients or senior partners. Another peer, equally competent but more proactive in showcasing work, gets promoted first. The difference? Perception management and visibility. Key takeaway: High performance earns respect; strategic visibility earns advancement.

5. “Emotional intelligence (EQ) often outweighs IQ in leadership roles.” Narrative: Multiple studies (Daniel Goleman, Korn Ferry) show that EQ competencies — empathy, self-awareness, adaptability, and relationship management — account for over 80% of success in senior leadership roles. Corporate leaders must inspire, not just instruct. Example: During a merger, a senior manager with average technical skill but high emotional intelligence retains her team through trust and empathy — while another technically brilliant but emotionally detached manager loses half his team to attrition. Key takeaway: Your ability to connect often defines your ability to lead.

6. “Leadership begins only after you have people reporting to you.” Narrative: Many MBA grads wait for a “manager” title to see themselves as leaders. In reality, leadership begins when you influence others, not when you manage them. Modern organizations value “influence without authority” — a hallmark of leadership maturity. Example: A management trainee at Unilever leads a cross-functional project team across marketing, sales, and finance — none of whom report to her. Yet her ability to rally the group toward a common outcome demonstrates leadership well before any formal title. Key takeaway: Leadership starts with influence , not hierarchy .

7. “Cultural fit can outweigh technical skills in hiring decisions.” Narrative: Organizations increasingly prioritize “fit” with their values, work style, and team dynamics. Even the most skilled candidates are often rejected if they don’t align with company culture. This is especially true in consulting, tech, and startups. Example: Two candidates for a product manager role at Google perform equally well technically. One demonstrates curiosity, humility, and a “ Googley ” mindset — the other seems rigid and competitive. Guess who gets the offer? Key takeaway: Culture fit isn’t soft — it’s strategic . It predicts collaboration, retention, and long-term performance.

8. “Switching jobs frequently is the fastest route to career growth.” Narrative: Job hopping can offer early salary bumps, but research (Harvard Business Review, LinkedIn Talent Insights) indicates that rapid switching often plateaus growth beyond mid-levels. Employers begin questioning depth, stability, and learning agility. Sustainable growth depends more on breadth within roles and demonstrable impact. Example: A young professional who changes four jobs in five years sees diminishing returns — slightly higher pay but limited strategic exposure. Meanwhile, another who stays three years in one firm leads a major transformation project that becomes a highlight in future interviews. Key takeaway: Career growth = depth of impact × consistency of performance , not just speed of movement.

9. “Your online presence and personal brand influence corporate hiring.” Narrative: Today’s recruiters and hiring managers regularly scan LinkedIn profiles before interviews. Your posts, recommendations, and how you engage online can validate (or contradict) your resume. Personal branding is not vanity — it’s visibility. Example: An MBA student who shares thoughtful insights on sustainability attracts a recruiter’s attention for a corporate ESG role — even before applying. Another equally qualified candidate with no online presence remains unseen. Key takeaway: Your digital footprint is your first interview .

10. Stuff that no one will tell you! Tips to make an impactful start in your corporate career Asking good questions — not giving all the answers Taking notes — visibly Following up thoughtfully Being respectfully curious about other functions Speaking less, synthesizing more Building micro-relationships early Owning small things completely

11. 5 Tricks to Crack Interviews! Maximise the chance of getting past the interview hurdle Do your research – preparation is key Outcomes beat tasks – focus on impact Listen, Pause+Think , Respond – Do NOT React v Match the Energy – not the questions – Read the room v Open Strong – Close stronger. Own the first 90 and last 30 seconds

12. QUESTIONS ? For any questions not asked or answered, reach out on [email protected]

13. THANK YOU and Stay in touch ! linkedin.com/in/pjpmo/