From Undercover to Top Boss: My Rise to Mastering Career and Life

Greetings, I am Govind Ashan. My academic journey began with a Master’s in Computers and a diploma in Entrepreneurship & Management from the illustrious Department of Management Studies at IIT Delhi. As I look back to 2008, the memories are still fresh, vivid, and filled with lessons that have shaped my professional trajectory.In those days, campus placements were a big deal. Most of my peers were getting placements with top-notch companies—Infosys, TCS, NIIT, Wipro, you name it. They were the stars of our batch, basking in the glory of their imminent careers. But amidst this flurry of activity, I chose to take a different path. I remember a pivotal moment when a close friend asked me, “Govind bro, why aren’t you sitting for placements?” My answer, calm and deliberate, was: “I am not prepared yet.”To understand this, you need to know what drove me. I had a profound passion for technology—a fervor that wasn’t about fleeting trends but about deeply understanding and mastering the craft. While my classmates were racing towards corporate jobs, I was diving into the world of Java/J2EE technologies, determined to build a foundation that would serve me for the long haul. Friends and colleagues advised me against my decision, convinced that I was squandering precious opportunities. Their skepticism didn’t deter me. I was resolute. My mantra was clear: “I will be the master of my own destiny.”By November 2007, when most of my friends were securing their positions, I was intensely focused on learning. I wasn’t just scratching the surface—I was immersing myself in Java, J2EE, databases, design patterns, Spring, and Hibernate. I aimed not only to understand these technologies but to excel in them. As the academic session was nearing its end in August 2008, the global economic landscape was about to shift dramatically. The Great Recession had begun, starting with the stock market crash in the USA in September.“Ignore the herd mentality and focus on building a solid foundation of skills.” — Govind AshanThe onset of the recession was a game-changer. Many of my classmates who had secured jobs found their offers postponed by up to two years. The economic downturn had thrown a wrench into their plans, leaving them in a lurch. As they struggled with the uncertainty of delayed joinings, I was equipped with a robust skill set, ready to seize opportunities.“Be prepared, because when opportunity knocks, wrestle it to the ground.”Despite the looming economic challenges, I had faith in my capabilities. I knew the market was tough, but I was prepared. I began my job search with a strategy. I networked relentlessly, combed through job portals, and applied to every relevant position I could find. My initial interview call came from a small firm in Hauz Khas, Delhi. The process was rigorous—phone interviews followed by two face-to-face rounds. Unfortunately, despite performing well, I didn’t secure the job.However, I saw this as an opportunity for growth rather than a setback. I knew exactly where I had faltered and used this feedback as motivation. I immersed myself in further practice, worked on in-house projects, and continued to refine my skills. I was undeterred by the failure and used it as fuel to drive my preparation.In June 2008, a friend tipped me off about openings for Java/J2EE roles at Augusta Point, Gurgaon. I was ready. Armed with 25 copies of my resume, I ventured to the company. There, I faced a demanding interview process alongside 30 other candidates. The waiting period was nerve-wracking—I had to wait three hours for the results. During this time, I took the initiative to visit several nearby IT offices to inquire about any available positions. This proactive approach paid off. At the second company I approached, I cleared their three rounds of interviews and received two job offers on the same day.“Turn rejection into fuel for your success with hustle and determination.”Receiving multiple job offers in a challenging market was exhilarating. It confirmed that my strategy and preparation had paid off. I accepted a position with a US-based MNC in Gurgaon. This role set the stage for my career growth. Two years later, I transitioned to HCL, where I encountered familiar faces from my MCA days who were now my juniors.The transition from being a fresh graduate to an experienced professional was a journey in itself. It was not just about applying my technical skills but also about understanding the dynamics of a corporate environment, leading teams, and navigating office politics. The real-world experience was both challenging and rewarding. I learned the value of networking, the intricacies of organizational culture, and the importance of continuous learning.In 2013, I felt an entrepreneurial spark. I decided to channel my accumulated knowledge into starting my own IT and HR consulting firm. This was a significant leap—a transition from being an employee to becoming an employer. The learning curve was steep, but it was exhilarating. I had to master new skills in sales and marketing, lead teams, and manage various aspects of the business. It was a roller-coaster ride of ups and downs, but each challenge was an opportunity for growth.My entrepreneurial journey taught me invaluable lessons. I learned to adapt quickly, think strategically, and lead with empathy. I developed a keen understanding of the market, honed my skills in client management, and navigated the complexities of running a business. I faced numerous obstacles, but each one strengthened my resolve and refined my approach.“Knowledge increases by sharing.” — My mother’s wisdomInspired by my mother’s belief in the power of sharing knowledge, I embarked on a mission to empower others. I wanted to give back and share the wealth of experience I had gained over the years. Thus, I set a goal to help at least one million fellow Indians leverage their skills and achieve their career aspirations.From being a college graduate with grand dreams to becoming a successful entrepreneur and now a mentor, my journey has been transformative. I’ve seen firsthand how a well-designed career strategy can turn setbacks into opportunities. The Ashan Career Climb course is a reflection of this philosophy. It’s not just about learning—it’s about transforming lives and creating possibilities.“Your career is your canvas, and you have the power to create a masterpiece.”The Ashan Career Climb course provides comprehensive guidance on how to excel in your career. It covers everything from crafting the perfect resume to mastering job portals, branding yourself effectively, and acing interviews. One of the core aspects of the course is teaching how to create multiple job offers. This is not just about applying to several jobs—it’s about strategically positioning yourself to attract and secure the best opportunities.Securing multiple job offers is a powerful way to ensure you have options and leverage your skills effectively. The course provides actionable strategies to build a compelling personal brand, navigate the job market with confidence, and turn interviews into offers. It’s about empowering you to take control of your career and achieve your professional goals.The journey from college to career mastery is not always straightforward. It requires resilience, strategic thinking, and a willingness to embrace challenges. The Ashan Career Climb course is designed to guide you through this journey, providing you with the tools and insights you need to succeed.Every individual’s career path is unique, but with the right guidance and strategies, anyone can overcome obstacles and unlock their potential. My own journey has been filled with challenges and triumphs, and I’ve learned that with determination and the right support, anything is possible.I encourage you to invest in your career and embrace the opportunities that come your way. The Ashan Career Climb course is more than just a learning experience—it’s a gateway to transforming your career and achieving your dreams. Don’t let setbacks hold you back. Use them as stepping stones to propel yourself forward.Join me on this mission to empower and uplift others. Let’s work together to create a future where every individual has the chance to reach their full potential. With the right guidance, strategies, and mindset, you can turn your aspirations into reality and make a lasting impact on your career and life.“Your career is not just a job; it’s a journey of growth, learning, and empowerment.”Embrace the journey, invest in your growth, and remember: you have the power to shape your career and create a masterpiece. The Ashan Career Climb course is here to support you every step of the way. Let’s embark on this journey together and build a future filled with possibilities and success.