"Daddy, When Will You Get the Promotion? A True HR Story of Resilience"
In the bustling city of Bangalore, Venkat, a dedicated HR Manager, found himself facing a crossroads in his career journey. With 17 years of HR experience and a track record of successfully managing industrial relations, he joined a manufacturing company with the promise of a bright future.
Venkat's son, a young and enthusiastic boy, had been persistently asking for a digital camera, a dream he expressed with unwavering passion. Venkat was well aware of his son's longing for this camera, but he believed that his son had time to develop his photography skills. To appease his son's request, Venkat made a promise, "I will buy you the camera when I get a promotion next year."
Venkat's career was on an upward trajectory. When he joined the company, he was hired as a successor to Gokul, a veteran HR professional with 30 years of experience who was about to retire in the next two years. Under Gokul's mentorship, Venkat excelled in maintaining good employee relations and tackling industrial issues, building a strong foundation for the HR department.
However, the dynamics changed when Ramesh, a new General Manager - Corporate HR, joined the company.Ramesh aimed to diminish Venkat's influence and expertise to make room for someone more pliable. He successfully convinced the management to appoint a new HR head who lacked the necessary experience in HR and industrial relations. This new HR head aligned with Ramesh, attempting to undermine Venkat's reputation.
Undeterred, Venkat continued to focus on his work and played a vital role in signing a crucial wage settlement with the Union.His contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic were commendable as he assisted employees and their family members during these challenging times.
Despite his outstanding performance, he was overlooked for promotion during the appraisal.This disappointment affected him deeply.
Venkat returned home with a heavy heart and shared the news with his family. His son, displaying wisdom beyond his years, reacted promptly, "Dad, you go and join a company where you will get a position more than a Senior Manager, and don't worry. I will not ask for a camera."
Venkat's spouse, witnessing his disheartened expression, offered comforting words of wisdom "Perhaps the universe has something greater in store for you, a role beyond that of a Senior Manager, which is why this promotion didn't come through."
With the unwavering support of his family and their belief in his potential, Venkat was inspired to seek a new position that would recognize his true worth. Through his HR network, Venkat secured the role of 'Assistant General Manager - HR & IR' in a prestigious multinational corporation. With his new position and his family's steadfast support, Venkat not only fulfilled his professional aspirations but also continued to nurture the dreams and aspirations of his son.
Great opportunity!