Enriching careers in management

During the last two decades, Indian economy has grown considerably due to globalization. Many international corporations have entered the Indian market, bringing along a wide variety of career opportunities.

The traditional management careers are in the fields of accounting, production, human resource management, marketing and finance. Management graduates would start as trainees or at the junior level and work their way up to the top of the organization.

Several other marketing jobs are focused outside the organization and deal with business clients or consumers. These jobs are often more challenging because consumers have changing needs over time creating a need for more dynamic strategies. In marketing, the notable careers would be in advertising, brand management, sales, market research and retailing. These jobs would involve market research and modelling marketing strategies. Client service is a critical area for effectively coordinating the activities within the agency and the client. Individuals with management training and interpersonal skills are suitable for these jobs. Public relations department of an organization manages the interface of the company with consumers, government and other stakeholders. This job requires designing communications, developing an image for the company and conflict resolution. Sales management requires considerable interpersonal skills. Individuals who enjoy interacting with clients will do well in this domain. The writer is PaganelliBull Professor of Marketing and International Business, Stern School of Business, NYU and has authored Understanding Indian Consumers, published by Oxford University Press.