Q: I am 27 years old and have been working as a stores in-charge in a construction company for the last three years. I graduated in commerce in 2003 and am currently doing a postgraduate diploma in materials management from Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu, through correspondence. Should I continue in the same field after completing the diploma?

Pradeep Kumar, Bokaro

A: The infrastructure sector is booming. The experience that you have gained over the years in the construction domain is valuable. The challenge is to leverage these skills. With a postgraduate diploma in management you will be able to search for newer avenues. Pre-MBA work experience always helps to broaden a person’s perspective. Your experience will help you to get lateral placement. It would be advisable for you to work in your domain. Finding a job to your liking with the help of experienced professionals should not be a problem.

Q:I have done a diploma in mechanical engineering in 2004. Since then I have been working in a reputed engineering concern. But as I am a diploma holder, I have neither got a promotion nor a raise. Can you suggest what I should do to improve my career prospects? I am open to studying but cannot quit my job or leave Calcutta.

A:As you have experience in the technical line it would be advisable to pursue a BE / BTech degree. Some engineering colleges admit diploma holders in engineering to the second year BE / BTech (part-time) programmes. As the classes are primarily held in the evenings you will be free to pursue a job alongside. You can also enrol as a senior technician member of the Institute of Engineers in Calcutta. The associateship of this institution is considered equivalent to a BE / BTech degree. There are other colleges like Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani and Indira Gandhi National Open University that offer distance learning programmes. A distance learning course can’t be compared with a full-time course. However, it is the only recourse for someone wanting to pursue a degree along with a full-time job. You can choose a course after doing some research on the placements bagged by the alumni of the course that you intend to pursue.

Q:I am 39 years old and work as a maintenance engineer (electrical) in a reputed multinational company. I am a science graduate and hold a diploma in electrical engineering. I have 14 years of work experience in electrical maintenance. I feel I am stagnating in my present job. Could you suggest a suitable correspondence course related to electrical engineering / administration which will boost my prospects? It will not be possible for me to attend classes full time.

Name withheld

A: Your previous job experience will help you to interact with prospective clients. A postgraduate degree in management would certainly boost your career prospects. The challenge is to utilise your acquired skills. With a management degree under your belt you will be able to look for newer avenues. It will also give you a good theoretical grounding on general managerial aspects. As you are employed it is advisable that you do a part-time MBA course. But exercise proper judgement in choosing an institute that offers value for money.

Q:I completed graduation in economics (hons) from Calcutta University in 2003. I have completed MBA in marketing from the same university in 2005. I worked for a reputed pharmaceutical company as a territory manager for two years. Then I got a better opportunity and shifted to a media organisation. I want to work in the market research sector. Will it be a wise move? Can you suggest any course which will help boost my career?

A:Cross domain movement is encouraged in today’s world. Try to find an organisation which will want to utilise your experience in marketing. I would advise you to post your resume on the job portals and look for a consultant experienced in this domain.