‘MBA played a significant role in transforming me from an introvert to an extrovert’

Sagar Rajendra Athale is an accomplished professional, who completed his B.Tech in Electrical Engineering in 2017, followed by pursuing MBA in HR & Operations from Apeejay School of Management (ASM), Dwarka from 2017-19. With a strong educational background in Engineering and Management, Sagar embarked on his career journey in the field of HR. He kickstarted his professional expedition by joining Trendsetter Consumer Services, an FMCG company, where he worked for over two years. Sagar’s dedication and expertise led him to receive a prestigious offer from Tata Power for the position of Corporate HR in the western part of Odisha, focusing on electricity distribution.

In his current role, Sagar is responsible for various aspects of HR, including campus recruitment, lateral recruitment, performance management system (PMS), and employee engagement. His ability to adapt to new environments and tackle challenges has been instrumental in his professional growth. Read edited excerpts of the interview: 

How has your experience at Apeejay School of Management, Dwarka prepared you for your current role as a Lead Associate – HR?

At Apeejay, I took every opportunity that came my way and worked on them diligently. The academic curriculum provided me with a foundational understanding of the key elements required to progress in the hierarchy. The practical application of knowledge determines how quickly one can climb the ladder. Apeejay also played a significant role in transforming me from an introvert to an extrovert. The institute provided me with a platform to experiment and shape my future, both personally and professionally.

Can you share an example of a challenging HR situation you faced at your current organisation and how you handled it?

One challenging HR situation I encountered was the need to recruit over 200 graduates within a span of 45 days after my joining. Being new to the place and unfamiliar with the local language, which in this case was Odia, posed a significant hurdle. However, with guidance from my manager and referring to my previous recruitment experience, I was able to successfully recruit 200 graduates within the given time frame. As a result, I received recognition from my CEO in the form of an award for this achievement.

How do you stay updated with the latest trends and best practices in the field of HR?

Well, I employ various strategies. I follow influential HR blogs, podcasts, and websites to stay informed about emerging practices, innovative HR strategies, and the latest trends. Additionally, I actively participate in professional development programmes that specifically target HR professionals. These programmes cover topics such as strategic HR management, employee relations, data analytics, and organisational development. Continuous learning and engagement with the HR community are essential to stay up-to-date in this dynamic field.

In your opinion, what are some key qualities or skills that make a successful HR professional, and how do you embody these qualities?

Strong communication skills are vital for any HR professional, as effective communication fosters understanding and collaboration. Upholding ethical and confidentiality standards is also crucial since HR often handles sensitive information. In addition, problem-solving and analytical thinking are essential for analysing situations and devising innovative solutions. Emotional intelligence is another key quality that enables HR professionals to understand and empathise with employees. Adaptability and flexibility play a critical role in a constantly evolving field like HR. Lastly, understanding the business context and aligning HR strategies with organisational objectives is crucial for success. I strive to embody these qualities by continuously honing my communication skills, adhering to ethical standards, leveraging problem-solving abilities, developing emotional intelligence, and staying adaptable in my approach.

Can you describe a project or initiative you led during your time at Apeejay School of Management that had a significant impact on your learning and professional development?

During my time at ASM, I undertook a Summer Internship Project (SIP) with Kalinga Cables Pvt. Ltd. for a duration of two months. This opportunity allowed me to interact with professionals from diverse domains and locations. It greatly contributed to my understanding of HR roles and responsibilities, ultimately solidifying my decision to pursue HR as a career for rapid growth.

How do you approach employee engagement in your current organisation?

Communication plays a vital role in employee engagement and fostering a positive work culture. Regularly sharing information about company goals, initiatives, and changes is essential. Encouraging open and transparent communication channels enables employees to express their ideas, concerns, and feedback. Active listening and timely responding to employee needs help build trust and promote engagement. Recognising and appreciating employees’ contributions and achievements are crucial. Providing opportunities for employee development and growth through training programs, mentorship, and coaching also enhances engagement. Involving employees in decision-making processes, projects, and problem-solving fosters a sense of ownership and involvement. Organising team-building activities, social events, and encouraging constructive feedback further strengthens employee engagement. It’s important to tailor these approaches to the organisation’s values, industry, and employee needs. Regular assessment of engagement efforts allows for adjustments to create a positive work culture that supports both employee satisfaction and organisational success.

What motivated you to choose a career in HR, and how has your understanding of the field evolved since your time at Apeejay School of Management?

Throughout my academic career, I was drawn to understanding human behaviour and identifying opportunities to contribute to an organisation’s success. The ability to promote diversity and inclusion, implement policies that enhance employee well-being and satisfaction, and engage in problem-solving appealed to me. HR offered a fulfiling career choice that aligned with my interests. Since my time at ASM, my understanding of the field has deepened through practical experience, continuous learning, networking, research, and mentorship. These experiences have contributed to my growth as an HR professional, allowing me to adapt to new trends and evolving best practices.