Hello All,
I am an Officer presently serving in the Army and have put in about 18 years of service. Presently, I am posted as an Instructor/Trainer and am conducting training for people right from Jawans to Senior Army officers in Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Warfare.
I have been keenly following various posts on diverse topics posted on this forum and am benefiting immensely from it. As I plan to switch jobs to the Corporate world after completion of my 20 years of pensionable service, I am trying to be as well-prepared as possible. As such, I am pursuing a PGDHRM from SCDL by correspondence. My areas of interest are HRM and Admin.
My question to you guys and gals is, "If you have come across any Army Officers serving in your organization, what is your general feedback on them? What, according to you, are their good and bad qualities?"
Secondly, since I yet have 2 more years to go for the switch over, how should I plan to utilize my present time so that it is beneficial to me when I join the Corporate bandwagon?
Will be waiting for your replies eagerly.
Ciao, Yogesh Joshi
From India, Bangalore
Acknowledge(0)
Amend(0)
I am an Officer presently serving in the Army and have put in about 18 years of service. Presently, I am posted as an Instructor/Trainer and am conducting training for people right from Jawans to Senior Army officers in Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Warfare.
I have been keenly following various posts on diverse topics posted on this forum and am benefiting immensely from it. As I plan to switch jobs to the Corporate world after completion of my 20 years of pensionable service, I am trying to be as well-prepared as possible. As such, I am pursuing a PGDHRM from SCDL by correspondence. My areas of interest are HRM and Admin.
My question to you guys and gals is, "If you have come across any Army Officers serving in your organization, what is your general feedback on them? What, according to you, are their good and bad qualities?"
Secondly, since I yet have 2 more years to go for the switch over, how should I plan to utilize my present time so that it is beneficial to me when I join the Corporate bandwagon?
Will be waiting for your replies eagerly.
Ciao, Yogesh Joshi
From India, Bangalore
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Dear Mr. Yogesh,
There are a number of people in corporate handling senior roles, especially in HR, who were Ex-servicemen. My views are as mentioned below. I am giving my comments based on my experience working with people from different verticals of defense (navy, army, and air force).
Below are my personal views working with defense personalities; there are exceptions as well:
Good things are they are process-oriented, demanding, result-oriented, disciplined in work, have excellent communication skills, multi-linguistic ability, easily gel with top management, vast general knowledge, to name a few.
Bad things that I have noticed are the language that they use - more commanding, resistance to learning from others, especially juniors (youngsters), they demand respect rather than commanding it, they have a superiority complex thinking they know everything, and some of them are adamant too.
If you can overcome grey areas, you will be one among the best.
You can look at consulting organizations as well, which will be really challenging for profiles like yours.
Regards,
Sathiya
From India, Madras
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
2There are a number of people in corporate handling senior roles, especially in HR, who were Ex-servicemen. My views are as mentioned below. I am giving my comments based on my experience working with people from different verticals of defense (navy, army, and air force).
Below are my personal views working with defense personalities; there are exceptions as well:
Good things are they are process-oriented, demanding, result-oriented, disciplined in work, have excellent communication skills, multi-linguistic ability, easily gel with top management, vast general knowledge, to name a few.
Bad things that I have noticed are the language that they use - more commanding, resistance to learning from others, especially juniors (youngsters), they demand respect rather than commanding it, they have a superiority complex thinking they know everything, and some of them are adamant too.
If you can overcome grey areas, you will be one among the best.
You can look at consulting organizations as well, which will be really challenging for profiles like yours.
Regards,
Sathiya
From India, Madras
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Dear Mr. Joshi,
As expected from a defense person, it is evident that you are approaching with a well-planned strategy. It is indeed crucial to establish a proper foundation before transitioning into the corporate world. Having experience in the defense sector is an added advantage.
Here, I would suggest that you segment different areas of HR such as training, administration, employee relations, recruitment, and payroll. It is essential to gain knowledge about the activities and processes associated with each of these areas.
Regards, Tikam
From India, Pune
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
As expected from a defense person, it is evident that you are approaching with a well-planned strategy. It is indeed crucial to establish a proper foundation before transitioning into the corporate world. Having experience in the defense sector is an added advantage.
Here, I would suggest that you segment different areas of HR such as training, administration, employee relations, recruitment, and payroll. It is essential to gain knowledge about the activities and processes associated with each of these areas.
Regards, Tikam
From India, Pune
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Hi Yogesh Joshi,
Thank you for your message.
Sathiya, very well put. In a very concise way, you seem to have hit the nail on its head. I totally agree with you that generally, the ex-Army officers have the strengths and weaknesses brought out by you. On retrospect, I seem to have the strengths that you have mentioned, but will surely guard against the weaknesses from creeping into me. Thanks also for the suggestion regarding consulting organizations; I will certainly look into it. 😊
Tikam, thank you for the valuable input. While doing PGDHRM, I was worried about how I would cope with subjects like Organizational Development or Managerial Economics, etc., when I join the corporate world. I think I need to concentrate on the subjects of my liking. I enjoy teaching, creating PowerPoint presentations, and conducting lectures. My experience as an instructor at the College of Military Engineering, where I have been training a wide diaspora of students, may also hold me in good stead. I am also gaining experience in a recruitment firm. So, training and recruitment seem to be good for me. What is your opinion? As far as administration is concerned, as Army officers, we have been handling admin tasks since the day we were commissioned in the Army. We are also excellent event managers, having organized various events throughout our army life.
Thank you again to both of you. I look forward to a few more diverse inputs.
Regards,
Yogesh Joshi
From India, Bangalore
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Thank you for your message.
Sathiya, very well put. In a very concise way, you seem to have hit the nail on its head. I totally agree with you that generally, the ex-Army officers have the strengths and weaknesses brought out by you. On retrospect, I seem to have the strengths that you have mentioned, but will surely guard against the weaknesses from creeping into me. Thanks also for the suggestion regarding consulting organizations; I will certainly look into it. 😊
Tikam, thank you for the valuable input. While doing PGDHRM, I was worried about how I would cope with subjects like Organizational Development or Managerial Economics, etc., when I join the corporate world. I think I need to concentrate on the subjects of my liking. I enjoy teaching, creating PowerPoint presentations, and conducting lectures. My experience as an instructor at the College of Military Engineering, where I have been training a wide diaspora of students, may also hold me in good stead. I am also gaining experience in a recruitment firm. So, training and recruitment seem to be good for me. What is your opinion? As far as administration is concerned, as Army officers, we have been handling admin tasks since the day we were commissioned in the Army. We are also excellent event managers, having organized various events throughout our army life.
Thank you again to both of you. I look forward to a few more diverse inputs.
Regards,
Yogesh Joshi
From India, Bangalore
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Dear Yogesh,
I read your post and the many valuable inputs, remarks, and suggestions offered by members of the community. I would like to share a few things. I am a serving Air Force Officer who had similar intentions like yours. I did an Executive MBA Programme of 3 years from XIMB. It wasn't easy, but it was expensive as well as grueling. Having spent over five months on campus (which was compulsory) over the 9 trimesters, I learned a lot. The most important factor was living with the young fellow students, which you may not get in a distance learning course. Like someone rightly mentioned here in this forum, when you join a private concern, be prepared to serve under a guy/gal who is much younger than you. So with your Army career, you have to shed your position, ego (if you have more than required!), and learn to be a part of the younger crowd. Don't think because you have 20 years of service, you know it all; you have to learn, and if you are a willing learner, the sky is not the limit.
Kind regards
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
I read your post and the many valuable inputs, remarks, and suggestions offered by members of the community. I would like to share a few things. I am a serving Air Force Officer who had similar intentions like yours. I did an Executive MBA Programme of 3 years from XIMB. It wasn't easy, but it was expensive as well as grueling. Having spent over five months on campus (which was compulsory) over the 9 trimesters, I learned a lot. The most important factor was living with the young fellow students, which you may not get in a distance learning course. Like someone rightly mentioned here in this forum, when you join a private concern, be prepared to serve under a guy/gal who is much younger than you. So with your Army career, you have to shed your position, ego (if you have more than required!), and learn to be a part of the younger crowd. Don't think because you have 20 years of service, you know it all; you have to learn, and if you are a willing learner, the sky is not the limit.
Kind regards
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Dear Yogesh,
Welcome to the forum! In fact, the title of the subject caught my attention, and it was indeed an interesting post to read your comments and views expressed by Sathiya, Tikam, and Atanuguru. Well, I quite agree with them.
I may be biased in my opinion as my father was in the army, who also served in the private sector after his retirement.
My take is that - yes, undoubtedly they are disciplined and focused in their approach and possess excellent interpersonal skills, which are critical in the industry. Why should they limit their options to HR & Admin alone?
They are potential leaders and should aim to be CEOs of mid-size firms and startups, and for that, they need to upgrade themselves. A CEO's primary requisite is more about people management than the knowledge of the market domain, which requires more of common sense, which is not common!
"My question to you guys and gals is, 'If you have come across any Army Officers serving in your organization, what is your general feedback on them? What, according to you, are their good and bad qualities?'"
Good qualities - plenty, but they need to get out of the stereotype image of being a Colonel saheb with a golf cap! 😄 which is more of a media hype.
"While doing PGDHRM, I was worried about how I would cope with subjects like Organizational Development or Managerial Economics, etc., when I join the corporate world. I think I need to concentrate on the subjects of my liking. I like to teach, take PowerPoint presentations, conduct lectures, etc. My experience as an Instructor at the College of Military Engineering, where I have been training a wide diaspora of students, may also hold me in good stead. I am also gaining some experience in a Recruitment firm. So Training and Recruitment seem to be good for me. What is your opinion?"
Yogesh, don't worry about these subjects as they are more about common sense in the real world. Even IIM graduates, after being selected in Lever's, are required to have a mandatory stint in rural areas - what is more important is "how well you understand the market dynamics."
I am sure your stint at CME has groomed you as a Trainer/teacher, but you have to assess yourself as to what exactly you want to do - as sometimes putting yourself out of the comfort zone may help you discover yourself!
Best wishes,
Rajat
From India, Pune
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Welcome to the forum! In fact, the title of the subject caught my attention, and it was indeed an interesting post to read your comments and views expressed by Sathiya, Tikam, and Atanuguru. Well, I quite agree with them.
I may be biased in my opinion as my father was in the army, who also served in the private sector after his retirement.
My take is that - yes, undoubtedly they are disciplined and focused in their approach and possess excellent interpersonal skills, which are critical in the industry. Why should they limit their options to HR & Admin alone?
They are potential leaders and should aim to be CEOs of mid-size firms and startups, and for that, they need to upgrade themselves. A CEO's primary requisite is more about people management than the knowledge of the market domain, which requires more of common sense, which is not common!
"My question to you guys and gals is, 'If you have come across any Army Officers serving in your organization, what is your general feedback on them? What, according to you, are their good and bad qualities?'"
Good qualities - plenty, but they need to get out of the stereotype image of being a Colonel saheb with a golf cap! 😄 which is more of a media hype.
"While doing PGDHRM, I was worried about how I would cope with subjects like Organizational Development or Managerial Economics, etc., when I join the corporate world. I think I need to concentrate on the subjects of my liking. I like to teach, take PowerPoint presentations, conduct lectures, etc. My experience as an Instructor at the College of Military Engineering, where I have been training a wide diaspora of students, may also hold me in good stead. I am also gaining some experience in a Recruitment firm. So Training and Recruitment seem to be good for me. What is your opinion?"
Yogesh, don't worry about these subjects as they are more about common sense in the real world. Even IIM graduates, after being selected in Lever's, are required to have a mandatory stint in rural areas - what is more important is "how well you understand the market dynamics."
I am sure your stint at CME has groomed you as a Trainer/teacher, but you have to assess yourself as to what exactly you want to do - as sometimes putting yourself out of the comfort zone may help you discover yourself!
Best wishes,
Rajat
From India, Pune
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Hi Yogesh,
I wonder if we have bumped into each other earlier! I am currently posted in Delhi and consider myself lucky as I am already testing the waters here. I have planned to appear for the GMAT and then pursue the PGDEx Course from IIM or the 6-month Course. In any case, good GMAT scores are welcome in the industry as they will open further horizons.
Regarding my field, I have chosen consultancy. I would like to work with a good consulting firm that trains corporate heads to be good leaders and maybe open up my consultancy eventually.
Regards,
Navinder
From India, Delhi
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
I wonder if we have bumped into each other earlier! I am currently posted in Delhi and consider myself lucky as I am already testing the waters here. I have planned to appear for the GMAT and then pursue the PGDEx Course from IIM or the 6-month Course. In any case, good GMAT scores are welcome in the industry as they will open further horizons.
Regarding my field, I have chosen consultancy. I would like to work with a good consulting firm that trains corporate heads to be good leaders and maybe open up my consultancy eventually.
Regards,
Navinder
From India, Delhi
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Dear All,
I fully agree with Mr. Sathiya. I am also an ex-defence personnel working in the HR department. I started my career just 6 months back in HR and learned that there is much to be learned. We have certainly worked hard and under stressful conditions, knowing rules and regulations. However, after shedding the uniform (which is our protection), we still have to learn so many things, especially from youngsters who may be placed higher in the hierarchical system.
Regards,
From India, Bangalore
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
I fully agree with Mr. Sathiya. I am also an ex-defence personnel working in the HR department. I started my career just 6 months back in HR and learned that there is much to be learned. We have certainly worked hard and under stressful conditions, knowing rules and regulations. However, after shedding the uniform (which is our protection), we still have to learn so many things, especially from youngsters who may be placed higher in the hierarchical system.
Regards,
From India, Bangalore
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Ex-Forces officers usually make excellent middle management employees. They follow orders and do things the right way. Any company worth its salt would not hesitate to take on ex-Forces personnel in this type of role.
The only downside I have ever come across with ex-Forces personnel is original thinking. Because they are used to following orders and procedures, they sometimes lose the innovation spark. But this is a minor point in most businesses.
From United Kingdom, Glasgow
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
The only downside I have ever come across with ex-Forces personnel is original thinking. Because they are used to following orders and procedures, they sometimes lose the innovation spark. But this is a minor point in most businesses.
From United Kingdom, Glasgow
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Ex-Forces officers usually make excellent middle management employees. They follow orders and do things the right way. Any company worth its salt would not hesitate to take on ex-forces personnel in this type of role.
The only downside I have ever come across with ex-forces personnel is original thinking. Because they are used to following orders and procedures, they sometimes lose the innovation spark. But this is a minor point in most businesses.
While this may be true in many cases, there are Faujis who have excellent innovative skills and creativity. But what happens is that the expectations from an ex-Army officer become quite routine and predictable, and slowly they get into a comfort zone after years of hard life. In other words, complacency sets in as in any other job. A good boss can extract a lot from an ex-army guy by virtue of sheer experience and the variety of tasks handled by them.
From India, Delhi
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
The only downside I have ever come across with ex-forces personnel is original thinking. Because they are used to following orders and procedures, they sometimes lose the innovation spark. But this is a minor point in most businesses.
While this may be true in many cases, there are Faujis who have excellent innovative skills and creativity. But what happens is that the expectations from an ex-Army officer become quite routine and predictable, and slowly they get into a comfort zone after years of hard life. In other words, complacency sets in as in any other job. A good boss can extract a lot from an ex-army guy by virtue of sheer experience and the variety of tasks handled by them.
From India, Delhi
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Dear Mr. Yogesh,
Whether to continue in the Army or quit is your personal decision. Nevertheless, I found the following merits and demerits of defence officers:
Merits: As mentioned already by other members, what is not mentioned is that most of them walk the talk. This is the biggest binding factor for the juniors. They possess good writing skills and the ability to create processes if they are not already in place.
Demerits:
(a) The biggest problem is the lack of commercial thinking or commercial sense.
(b) Officers are often driven by rules rather than results. They are unable to create measures of performance for their staff. 99% of officers get caught up in the nitty-gritty and do not visualize the larger picture.
(c) They are unable to motivate staff. At times, their words can act as a "Weapon of mass destruction."
(d) They tend to be yes-men and expect the same from their juniors.
(e) They rarely take feedback from juniors and show unwillingness to change their behavior.
Since you asked for feedback, I have provided it honestly. I have closely observed 10 officers. The above feedback is based on watching their administration style.
All the best!
Dinesh V Divekar
Freelance Soft Skill & Behavioural Trainer
From India, Bangalore
Acknowledge(1)
Amend(0)
Whether to continue in the Army or quit is your personal decision. Nevertheless, I found the following merits and demerits of defence officers:
Merits: As mentioned already by other members, what is not mentioned is that most of them walk the talk. This is the biggest binding factor for the juniors. They possess good writing skills and the ability to create processes if they are not already in place.
Demerits:
(a) The biggest problem is the lack of commercial thinking or commercial sense.
(b) Officers are often driven by rules rather than results. They are unable to create measures of performance for their staff. 99% of officers get caught up in the nitty-gritty and do not visualize the larger picture.
(c) They are unable to motivate staff. At times, their words can act as a "Weapon of mass destruction."
(d) They tend to be yes-men and expect the same from their juniors.
(e) They rarely take feedback from juniors and show unwillingness to change their behavior.
Since you asked for feedback, I have provided it honestly. I have closely observed 10 officers. The above feedback is based on watching their administration style.
All the best!
Dinesh V Divekar
Freelance Soft Skill & Behavioural Trainer
From India, Bangalore
Acknowledge(1)Amend(0)
Hi Yogesh, We are a Media Organisation in delhi and looking for Army retired officers for the admin role in our office, can you suggest somebody???? Regards, Poonam
From India, Delhi
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
From India, Delhi
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Hi Poonam,
I am a serving Army Officer, just finished the ONE YEAR EXECUTIVE GENERAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME from IIM BANGALORE. I am neither tired nor retired, still nine more years to go. I have done PGDIB from SIMS PUNE before the IIM PROGRAMME, so as of now, I find myself fully geared up to join any good opening. Honestly, there is still so much to learn. I have reasonably good marketing, financial, HR, and training skills which can be really useful in any organization. My email is - colvirendra@rediffmail.com.
Col Virendra
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
I am a serving Army Officer, just finished the ONE YEAR EXECUTIVE GENERAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME from IIM BANGALORE. I am neither tired nor retired, still nine more years to go. I have done PGDIB from SIMS PUNE before the IIM PROGRAMME, so as of now, I find myself fully geared up to join any good opening. Honestly, there is still so much to learn. I have reasonably good marketing, financial, HR, and training skills which can be really useful in any organization. My email is - colvirendra@rediffmail.com.
Col Virendra
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Dear Dinesh and all HR friends,
Thank you for your feedback on ex-service officers working in corporate. There is no doubt that we need to unlearn and learn certain important aspects of corporate functioning. In fact, commercial sense can be developed with the help of the study of financial management and economics to a certain extent. One should understand that the corporate world is driven by profit, and revenue generation is key to it. While motivating subordinates comes naturally to us, the rules of the game in corporate settings may be different. However, with some hands-on knowledge and a refreshing of organizational behavior, we should be able to adapt.
Another interesting point is about being the "yes man." Many people have different perceptions about the Army's way of functioning, but things are evolving everywhere, including in corporate environments. "Yes men" have been successful so far; if they do not perform well, we may have a limited supply of this type of individual. The essential point that Dinesh and HR friends have rightly emphasized is that we should be prepared to change and be open to learning. Thank you for your honest feedback; we truly look forward to further interaction.
Col Virendra
Acknowledge(2)Amend(0)
Thank you for your feedback on ex-service officers working in corporate. There is no doubt that we need to unlearn and learn certain important aspects of corporate functioning. In fact, commercial sense can be developed with the help of the study of financial management and economics to a certain extent. One should understand that the corporate world is driven by profit, and revenue generation is key to it. While motivating subordinates comes naturally to us, the rules of the game in corporate settings may be different. However, with some hands-on knowledge and a refreshing of organizational behavior, we should be able to adapt.
Another interesting point is about being the "yes man." Many people have different perceptions about the Army's way of functioning, but things are evolving everywhere, including in corporate environments. "Yes men" have been successful so far; if they do not perform well, we may have a limited supply of this type of individual. The essential point that Dinesh and HR friends have rightly emphasized is that we should be prepared to change and be open to learning. Thank you for your honest feedback; we truly look forward to further interaction.
Col Virendra
Acknowledge(2)Amend(0)
Hi, Sir,
I have been managing the HR department for the past 2.5 years after retiring from my role as an SSC Officer. I used to oversee the purchase department at my previous company, and the management also recognized the hard work I put in. However, the raise I was given was not as expected, so I decided to leave.
In my current job, there are incompetent people who don't even understand the basics of their departments working as VPs. Coming from a military background, we are demanding, commanding, and we follow the simple principle that "THERE IS ONLY ONE WAY OF WORKING... AND THAT'S THE RIGHT WAY." In the civilian world, it's the opposite, with many people playing the blame game.
MORAL OF THE STORY: It is TOO EASY TO BECOME A FAUJI (on the fifteenth day of training, you transition from a civilian to a Fauji) BUT... Too DIFFICULT TO BECOME A CIVILIAN AGAIN (rather impossible)!!!
From India
Acknowledge(1)Amend(0)
I have been managing the HR department for the past 2.5 years after retiring from my role as an SSC Officer. I used to oversee the purchase department at my previous company, and the management also recognized the hard work I put in. However, the raise I was given was not as expected, so I decided to leave.
In my current job, there are incompetent people who don't even understand the basics of their departments working as VPs. Coming from a military background, we are demanding, commanding, and we follow the simple principle that "THERE IS ONLY ONE WAY OF WORKING... AND THAT'S THE RIGHT WAY." In the civilian world, it's the opposite, with many people playing the blame game.
MORAL OF THE STORY: It is TOO EASY TO BECOME A FAUJI (on the fifteenth day of training, you transition from a civilian to a Fauji) BUT... Too DIFFICULT TO BECOME A CIVILIAN AGAIN (rather impossible)!!!
From India
Acknowledge(1)Amend(0)
Dear Poonam,
1. Please refer your requirement of Admin Manager Media Organisation at Delhi. I wish to submit my résumé for kind consideration to the said Position.
2. I have over 12 yrs of experience in HR/Admin management and I am having working knowledge on SAP (HR). Presently I am handling the Human Resources & Administration at a Chemical Plant (100% Export Unit) located at Derabassi, Punjab. The Plant is spread out in an area of about 50 acres and has strength of over 700 employees. 3. Please don’t hesitate to contact me to discuss my background in relation to your needs. I look forward to hear from you. I wish to forward my updated Profile for your perusal.
Yours truly,
Rajesh
+91-98156-48582
+91-172-4648582
From India
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
1. Please refer your requirement of Admin Manager Media Organisation at Delhi. I wish to submit my résumé for kind consideration to the said Position.
2. I have over 12 yrs of experience in HR/Admin management and I am having working knowledge on SAP (HR). Presently I am handling the Human Resources & Administration at a Chemical Plant (100% Export Unit) located at Derabassi, Punjab. The Plant is spread out in an area of about 50 acres and has strength of over 700 employees. 3. Please don’t hesitate to contact me to discuss my background in relation to your needs. I look forward to hear from you. I wish to forward my updated Profile for your perusal.
Yours truly,
Rajesh
+91-98156-48582
+91-172-4648582
From India
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Hi Sir,
I have been manning the HR department for the last 2.5 years after hanging up my uniform (I was an SSC Officer and opted out). I was in charge of the purchase department at my previous company, and the management also acknowledged the hard work I put in. However, the raise given to me was not what I expected, so I decided to leave.
In my current job, there are incompetent people who don't even know the basics of their department's workings and hold positions as VPs.
Coming from the Forces, we are demanding, commanding, and we follow the simple principle: "THERE IS ONLY ONE WAY OF WORKING... AND THAT'S THE RIGHT WAY." In civil life, it is the opposite, with many people engaging in the blame game.
MORAL OF THE STORY: It is TOO EASY TO BECOME A FAUJI (on the fifteenth day of training, you get converted from civilian to a Fauji) BUT... Too DIFFICULT TO BECOME A CIVILIAN AGAIN (rather impossible)!!!
I don't agree with you here, lonegunner! The values that we have imbibed are still very much in demand, especially now when corporate bosses are realizing the drawbacks of hiring only 'bright guys' who lack scruples/values and fail to acknowledge the contribution and investment made by their company in them. Hang on tight, you'll find your place in the sun, I assure you!
From India, Delhi
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
I have been manning the HR department for the last 2.5 years after hanging up my uniform (I was an SSC Officer and opted out). I was in charge of the purchase department at my previous company, and the management also acknowledged the hard work I put in. However, the raise given to me was not what I expected, so I decided to leave.
In my current job, there are incompetent people who don't even know the basics of their department's workings and hold positions as VPs.
Coming from the Forces, we are demanding, commanding, and we follow the simple principle: "THERE IS ONLY ONE WAY OF WORKING... AND THAT'S THE RIGHT WAY." In civil life, it is the opposite, with many people engaging in the blame game.
MORAL OF THE STORY: It is TOO EASY TO BECOME A FAUJI (on the fifteenth day of training, you get converted from civilian to a Fauji) BUT... Too DIFFICULT TO BECOME A CIVILIAN AGAIN (rather impossible)!!!
I don't agree with you here, lonegunner! The values that we have imbibed are still very much in demand, especially now when corporate bosses are realizing the drawbacks of hiring only 'bright guys' who lack scruples/values and fail to acknowledge the contribution and investment made by their company in them. Hang on tight, you'll find your place in the sun, I assure you!
From India, Delhi
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Dear Lonegunner,
First of all, you are not alone; we all are with you, including HR friends too. Secondly, we all should realize that competent and incompetent people exist everywhere. Again, it is a subjective assessment. I don't have any doubt that sooner or later hard work and competence will pay off. Result orientation in corporate and services is the same; in our case, it may even come at the cost of life. If we can have the same orientation, nobody can stop us from reaching the top management level. We should realize that the corporate world has learned a lot from services. Remember, osmosis will always take place, and that's how knowledge grows.
Thanks and regards,
Col Virendra
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
First of all, you are not alone; we all are with you, including HR friends too. Secondly, we all should realize that competent and incompetent people exist everywhere. Again, it is a subjective assessment. I don't have any doubt that sooner or later hard work and competence will pay off. Result orientation in corporate and services is the same; in our case, it may even come at the cost of life. If we can have the same orientation, nobody can stop us from reaching the top management level. We should realize that the corporate world has learned a lot from services. Remember, osmosis will always take place, and that's how knowledge grows.
Thanks and regards,
Col Virendra
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Dear officer,
HR is purely a common sense subject, so there's no need to worry. Every professional acts like an HR person at some point in the day. Just dive into the HR pool and start swimming. I am very happy about your pre-planning; this will lead to greater mileage. Get yourself associated with an HR network where you can pick up the actual HR flavor in addition to books. Books will not help you; certificates can be used as stamps to send your CVs to corporates. To my knowledge, I have found all that I wanted from the CiteHR site. Understand these concepts and try to implement them in your office as and when suitable. Nothing much, :icon10:, I am sure you will be able to fly high. You can find any details on Google; believe me, give it a try.
Rest, luck. You need to develop your network to become a successful HR professional. My best wishes; let's see a new HR star soon.
Bye,
Senthilkumar
From India, Madras
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
HR is purely a common sense subject, so there's no need to worry. Every professional acts like an HR person at some point in the day. Just dive into the HR pool and start swimming. I am very happy about your pre-planning; this will lead to greater mileage. Get yourself associated with an HR network where you can pick up the actual HR flavor in addition to books. Books will not help you; certificates can be used as stamps to send your CVs to corporates. To my knowledge, I have found all that I wanted from the CiteHR site. Understand these concepts and try to implement them in your office as and when suitable. Nothing much, :icon10:, I am sure you will be able to fly high. You can find any details on Google; believe me, give it a try.
Rest, luck. You need to develop your network to become a successful HR professional. My best wishes; let's see a new HR star soon.
Bye,
Senthilkumar
From India, Madras
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Here is an extract of an article in Mint dated 09 Jun08: -
" In your opinion, what are some of the positive traits of leaders from the armed forces who have entered business, and what are some of the challenges they face?
—Mark McGrath, Columbus, Ohio
Positives first, because they’re so plentiful, and one of us (Jack) has hired several thousand junior military officers (JMOs) over the years.
The list starts with whip-smart and tenacious. Next, most military officers possess can-do, upbeat attitudes.
Moreover, the vast majority demonstrate the too-rare quality of edge; they can make yes-or-no decisions without muddling. Their people skills are likewise superb; they tend to be great at motivation and team building. And finally, and of special note to global companies, JMOs will move anywhere. Your toughest location might be better than the best outpost they’ve endured.
The challenges: Too many JMOs can’t seem to get the military’s necessary bureaucracy out of their systems and, as a result, they embrace rules and regulations that slow them down.
Second and last, some officers lack visionary thinking. They may have risked their lives in the military, but some JMOs seem less inclined to take risks in business. On balance, though, there is no balance. The positives win this debate hands down."
From India, Delhi
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
" In your opinion, what are some of the positive traits of leaders from the armed forces who have entered business, and what are some of the challenges they face?
—Mark McGrath, Columbus, Ohio
Positives first, because they’re so plentiful, and one of us (Jack) has hired several thousand junior military officers (JMOs) over the years.
The list starts with whip-smart and tenacious. Next, most military officers possess can-do, upbeat attitudes.
Moreover, the vast majority demonstrate the too-rare quality of edge; they can make yes-or-no decisions without muddling. Their people skills are likewise superb; they tend to be great at motivation and team building. And finally, and of special note to global companies, JMOs will move anywhere. Your toughest location might be better than the best outpost they’ve endured.
The challenges: Too many JMOs can’t seem to get the military’s necessary bureaucracy out of their systems and, as a result, they embrace rules and regulations that slow them down.
Second and last, some officers lack visionary thinking. They may have risked their lives in the military, but some JMOs seem less inclined to take risks in business. On balance, though, there is no balance. The positives win this debate hands down."
From India, Delhi
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
sir , ijust wanted to know how i can prepare myself better to come in the corporate world, hope u will guide me.i have still 2 years to complete my 5 years service Capt suraj
From India, Bhatinda
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
From India, Bhatinda
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Hi, I have read through the entire column and I agree with most of the things that have been said. Army officers are surely an asset and have the ability for innovation and creativity due to their multi-faceted personality and hard-working nature. It is the right mix of attitude, a quest for making the learning curve shorter, being amenable to new ideas, and adapting to new environments that they should try to possess to be successful in the various verticals in the corporate sector.
From India, Delhi
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
From India, Delhi
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Hi Friends,
I am delighted to learn views from many members and ex-service personnel in this forum regarding the subject.
This is to introduce all that I have been working in the Indian Navy and retired after 20 years of service in the Electrical Engineering branch. Thereafter, I have entered the corporate HR world. After retirement, for the last 9 years, I have been working in one of the corporates as Head of Human Resources and doing very well.
Yes, a person who has been in uniform and has served in the defense forces for such a long time, once they come out to the civilian world, I can say the sky is the limit for them. They bring knowledge, techniques, discipline, and many more things with them that can help with resettlement in the corporate world. I have seen many ex-defense persons doing extremely well in corporates and holding higher positions.
So, may I request all those who are going to retire soon that there is no need to worry. Be positive and come to the corporate world, take on challenges, and achieve success.
I wish you all the very best.
CHEERS...!!
Keep smiling.......!!
Mahesh K Prasad
From India, Mumbai
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
I am delighted to learn views from many members and ex-service personnel in this forum regarding the subject.
This is to introduce all that I have been working in the Indian Navy and retired after 20 years of service in the Electrical Engineering branch. Thereafter, I have entered the corporate HR world. After retirement, for the last 9 years, I have been working in one of the corporates as Head of Human Resources and doing very well.
Yes, a person who has been in uniform and has served in the defense forces for such a long time, once they come out to the civilian world, I can say the sky is the limit for them. They bring knowledge, techniques, discipline, and many more things with them that can help with resettlement in the corporate world. I have seen many ex-defense persons doing extremely well in corporates and holding higher positions.
So, may I request all those who are going to retire soon that there is no need to worry. Be positive and come to the corporate world, take on challenges, and achieve success.
I wish you all the very best.
CHEERS...!!
Keep smiling.......!!
Mahesh K Prasad
From India, Mumbai
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Hi Yogesh,
I wonder if we have bumped into each other earlier! I am currently posted in Delhi and consider myself lucky as I am already testing the waters here. I have planned to appear for the GMAT and then pursue the PGDEx Course from IIM or the 6-month Course. In any case, good GMAT scores are welcome in the industry, as they will open up further horizons.
In terms of my field, I have chosen consultancy. I aspire to work with a good consulting firm that trains corporate heads to be good leaders and maybe open up my consultancy eventually.
Regards,
Navinder
Hello, sir. Could you guide someone like me? I am 29 years old, ex-Army (Engineers), a Mechanical engineer, GMAT-700 scorer, currently doing a six-month management program from IIM Lucknow, and have a PGDHRM from Symbiosis. I am utterly confused at the moment. It seems that I have a lot of opportunities and ways to go, but currently, I am stranded and not sure what to do.
Regards,
Ajay
From India, Bharat
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
I wonder if we have bumped into each other earlier! I am currently posted in Delhi and consider myself lucky as I am already testing the waters here. I have planned to appear for the GMAT and then pursue the PGDEx Course from IIM or the 6-month Course. In any case, good GMAT scores are welcome in the industry, as they will open up further horizons.
In terms of my field, I have chosen consultancy. I aspire to work with a good consulting firm that trains corporate heads to be good leaders and maybe open up my consultancy eventually.
Regards,
Navinder
Hello, sir. Could you guide someone like me? I am 29 years old, ex-Army (Engineers), a Mechanical engineer, GMAT-700 scorer, currently doing a six-month management program from IIM Lucknow, and have a PGDHRM from Symbiosis. I am utterly confused at the moment. It seems that I have a lot of opportunities and ways to go, but currently, I am stranded and not sure what to do.
Regards,
Ajay
From India, Bharat
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Hi Badlu,
I request you to read CiteHR comments and postings. Most of the postings are repetitive, and very low-profile jobs are being discussed. You will not find any corporate people's comments here, nor will the postings enlighten you about the gravity of this profession. Information from our forum can be misleading.
Corporate jobs are challenging. Although it's a matter of opportunity and verbiage, it's true that ex-service men hardly accommodate in corporate life. This is based on my experience. I have come across two such ex-servicemen who were the subject of mockery in corporate settings. However, with my experience, another two ex-servicemen were very successful in training and administration roles.
Don't lose heart; you have a place in the industry, but at the middle management level.
Regards,
Badlu
From Saudi Arabia
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
I request you to read CiteHR comments and postings. Most of the postings are repetitive, and very low-profile jobs are being discussed. You will not find any corporate people's comments here, nor will the postings enlighten you about the gravity of this profession. Information from our forum can be misleading.
Corporate jobs are challenging. Although it's a matter of opportunity and verbiage, it's true that ex-service men hardly accommodate in corporate life. This is based on my experience. I have come across two such ex-servicemen who were the subject of mockery in corporate settings. However, with my experience, another two ex-servicemen were very successful in training and administration roles.
Don't lose heart; you have a place in the industry, but at the middle management level.
Regards,
Badlu
From Saudi Arabia
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Dear Ajay,
I do not know, but there must have been reasons why you chose to do a 6-month IIM course instead of a 1-year executive course - must have been the money factor, I guess. You are still well-placed. As has been said earlier, know yourself first, and understand what exactly you want to do. Also, pitch yourself at a level that is slightly above the level of work you have been doing. There is a great dearth of talent outside, and with your age and experience, nothing should stop you. Believe in yourself!
Best regards
From India, Delhi
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
I do not know, but there must have been reasons why you chose to do a 6-month IIM course instead of a 1-year executive course - must have been the money factor, I guess. You are still well-placed. As has been said earlier, know yourself first, and understand what exactly you want to do. Also, pitch yourself at a level that is slightly above the level of work you have been doing. There is a great dearth of talent outside, and with your age and experience, nothing should stop you. Believe in yourself!
Best regards
From India, Delhi
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Thanks, sir.
It's a pleasure to be reading "things encouraging." I picked up this course to spend the last few months in service in a 'slightly' more productive way. The course, nevertheless, has been an eye-opener in more than one sense. I shall be applying for a one-year thing at an opportune time. As for my areas of interest and strengths are concerned... therein lies the proverbial 'Achilles heel'... I have not been able to figure that out clearly. Hence, I am guided sometimes by what the market says (Availability), sometimes by the core skill set that I have (Mechanical Engineering), sometimes by what I have done (Project Management & HR), and sometimes by what I perceive I am good at (presentations, talking, and formulating)... the list goes on... Nevertheless, I am certain that we from the Armed Forces are a class apart. All our counterpart courses at the institute vouch for that and are in an obvious awe of what we manage to achieve. We do pack a punch.
The tricky part, I believe, is to maintain this cutting edge... somehow and to make the environment sensitive to the fact that given clear mandates, we can deliver better than anyone else.
Thanks and regards
From India, Bharat
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
It's a pleasure to be reading "things encouraging." I picked up this course to spend the last few months in service in a 'slightly' more productive way. The course, nevertheless, has been an eye-opener in more than one sense. I shall be applying for a one-year thing at an opportune time. As for my areas of interest and strengths are concerned... therein lies the proverbial 'Achilles heel'... I have not been able to figure that out clearly. Hence, I am guided sometimes by what the market says (Availability), sometimes by the core skill set that I have (Mechanical Engineering), sometimes by what I have done (Project Management & HR), and sometimes by what I perceive I am good at (presentations, talking, and formulating)... the list goes on... Nevertheless, I am certain that we from the Armed Forces are a class apart. All our counterpart courses at the institute vouch for that and are in an obvious awe of what we manage to achieve. We do pack a punch.
The tricky part, I believe, is to maintain this cutting edge... somehow and to make the environment sensitive to the fact that given clear mandates, we can deliver better than anyone else.
Thanks and regards
From India, Bharat
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Sir,
I am Ex GC Vaibhav Tripathi. I was boarded out of OTA after 10 months of training on medical grounds. I have over 2 years of corporate experience and was last working as a Marketing Manager with a retail franchisee. I had completed my PGDAM before joining OTA. Currently, I am pursuing EPYM from IIM-C. I am presently looking for an opportunity as an Assistant Manager/ Manager - Marketing. My father is also an Army Officer holding the rank of Colonel. I request your assistance in this matter. I would be grateful.
I just need the opportunity for an interview. I can handle the rest.
Regards,
Vaibhav Tripathi
9899015120
From India, Delhi
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
I am Ex GC Vaibhav Tripathi. I was boarded out of OTA after 10 months of training on medical grounds. I have over 2 years of corporate experience and was last working as a Marketing Manager with a retail franchisee. I had completed my PGDAM before joining OTA. Currently, I am pursuing EPYM from IIM-C. I am presently looking for an opportunity as an Assistant Manager/ Manager - Marketing. My father is also an Army Officer holding the rank of Colonel. I request your assistance in this matter. I would be grateful.
I just need the opportunity for an interview. I can handle the rest.
Regards,
Vaibhav Tripathi
9899015120
From India, Delhi
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Hi everyone, I'm an army officer serving in the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers. I have eight years of service. Can anyone suggest opportunities in the corporate sector?
Pratyush
From India, Mumbai
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
Pratyush
From India, Mumbai
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
All said and done, it is subjective. Please don't stereotype the army officers and generalize their pluses and minuses. There are many who, after being in the army and then outside, are very malleable and ready to unlearn and adjust. Give them a month or two of orientation, and they are ready to go!
From India, Hyderabad
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)
From India, Hyderabad
Acknowledge(0)Amend(0)CiteHR is an AI-augmented HR knowledge and collaboration platform, enabling HR professionals to solve real-world challenges, validate decisions, and stay ahead through collective intelligence and machine-enhanced guidance. Join Our Platform.
Indian Corporate World Transition.pdf
Job Description - HR & Admin.doc