Appreciate opportunities, identify your interest and potential, and work on them honestly

(prHWY.com) August 16, 2012 - Jaipur, India -- An industry professional-turned-academician best describes Professor Rajiv R. Thakur who is Director, Jaipuria Institute of Management, Jaipur. Several years of interaction with the industry, society and people has helped him become the proficient teacher and guide he is today. The last 10 months at Jaipuria and his illustrious career with IMT Ghaziabad and industry have proven him right in his belief that, "Instead of looking back, it is always better to look at other alternatives which you are confident about being able to manage." His research and teaching interests are in the areas of Strategy and International Business.

Several times during his career, he has taken decisions contrary to common aspirations. A meritorious student, he also had an excellent stint in the corporate world with The Statesman and Times of India until 2002, when he decided to move into academics in search of a more well-rounded life. "I thought that getting into academics would not only satisfy an inner urge, but I would also have a better work-life balance."

Prof. Thakur believes in teaching targeted at transformation. He advises, "First and foremost, a teacher has to create a perspective, a certain value which transforms the audience that he is catering to. That itself is a contribution towards social change or a social movement." He expands on the theme, saying that learning should translate into a relevant skill useful for industry and society.

Prof. Thakur has lectured in many countries. These meaningful cross-cultural interactions have helped him build better lessons for his students. He describes his stint at Jaipuria Institute of Management as an interesting challenge where he has to deal with a diverse student body while experimenting with practical learning. He has also been involved in research in the area of International Business and Management education. He plans to publish his research at a relevant time, as he is engaged in what he calls 'experiential research' and in the meantime, motivates and spurs his students on with the philosophy, "A mantra for success is that in any given circumstance, one has to find a way out and identify where one can excel."

International Business is Prof. Thakur's domain. However, he counsels students by telling them that no individual is carved out for specific subjects or domains. He says, "You evolve within the organisation and companies reward you with responsibilities of handling business internationally." He also feels that the more accountable and trustworthy a student proves to be, the more open-minded, the better his chances of growth in industry.

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