“Which is your preferred location?” and I thought Really! Is it happening? Eureka! the toil ends.
As I had not mentioned any particular preference, I landed up in Mumbai and “Yes” it was my first visit.
As the day approached, I had some expectations, presumptions and moreover a sense of nervousness, although I had prior work experience. However, all of these turned around when we were called for an induction meet at one of finest hotels in Mumbai- “Westin-Business Park”. Actually, that was my office. “Amazing”
And the first day arrived. As usual, cab was there to pick us up from nearby hotel and the inductions began on time.
“Induction Starts”
We were briefed about various business units on the first day of our induction process. Not to forget to mention from extravagant meals to mocktails and desserts, we were mollycoddled from all the sides. Induction on second day, was followed by project briefs, where we were introduced to our mentors and buddies; people we were going to closely work with for coming 8 weeks. It was so well organized and structured.
“Back to Business”
Finally, we started with our respective projects after three days of long yet exciting process.
“So, how do you want to contribute to our organization?”-my mentor asked. We discussed several options and zeroed down to two. One was related to understanding the process of developing media strategy and other was related to transforming the value equation of our clients related to overall business strategy. The best part was he was so eager to built upon my ideas and make it a “Wow” Project (in his words) at the end. I had freedom- to explore anything and everything, discuss with anyone, anytime-no appointments required.
Overall, Mediacom-part of GroupM agency which I worked for was altogether a different experience for me- be it terms of work-culture (open yet organized), organization structure etc.-basically a sense of belongingness.
A week before final presentation
We always miss something important at the 11
th hour and same was with me. I had failed to consider one of the most vital factor of my analysis which required primary research. I remember jolting down and consolidating points from my primary survey burning night candles a day before my dry run of my final presentation. Thanks to my friends cum besties cum mentors who helped me to finish it on time. The entire experience was not just about completing a project but an achievement which I can brag about.
On the day of Presentation
D-day arrived; A group of 7-8 members were waiting inside the boardroom. Evidently nervous, I walked inside the room with a smile. After few minutes of presentation, I regained my confidence. I can’t explain the sense of satisfaction which I had after Q&A session. Every single word was scrutinized as it should impact your final outcome. They also seemed quite impressed with my overall performance. Before leaving they asked- “What differentiate GroupM from your previous company?” and I said – “Creativity and openness”. They smiled.
Overall It was an amazing 2 months and I enjoyed it thoroughly!
This article is written by Abhishek Agarwal from IIM Trichy-Class of 2019.