There’s an illusion we all grow up believing: that success is a meritocracy, neatly charted out by hard work, good grades, and the occasional stroke of luck. But careers, like life itself, are more nuanced, more unpredictable, and more demanding of our ability to adapt, recalibrate, and redefine … [Read more...]
The Silent Crisis of Value: Let Us Start the New Year Owning Our Impact
As I reflect on the past year, one theme stands out in my coaching and mentoring conversations: the quiet but profound struggle many professionals face in recognizing and communicating their value. It’s a challenge that transcends roles, industries, and career stages. People who are talented, … [Read more...]
Karm Hi Dharam Hai: The Quiet Power of Doing What Must Be Done
Thirty years ago, as a young engineering student, I found myself spiraling into panic over an exam. Fear consumed me - fear of failing, fear of disappointing myself and others, fear of outcomes beyond my control. My dad, ever calm in moments of my distress, offered a pearl of wisdom that would stay … [Read more...]
Rise Above the Noise: Mastering the Competitive Mindset for Job Market Success
In a world drowning in surplus, survival isn’t about simply existing - it’s about standing out. Whether it’s products vying for attention, ideas competing for adoption, or people striving for opportunities, the principle remains the same: excess creates noise, and success belongs to those who rise … [Read more...]
The Art of the Perfect Pitch: Connecting Through Clarity
Crafting the perfect pitch is often misunderstood as a test of self-promotion. Yet, the most compelling pitches aren’t about touting accolades or listing achievements - they’re about building connection. They bridge the gap between who you are and what others need to understand about you. This is … [Read more...]
The Poetry of Clarity: Crafting Value Propositions That Speak
In a world that often celebrates complexity, the beauty of clarity shines brighter. As businesses, leaders, and creators, we’re constantly challenged to answer a deceptively simple question: Why should someone choose us? Beneath the layers of branding and marketing lies a truth - people don’t buy … [Read more...]
14 Topics for Professional Success – For International Students and New Canadians
The purpose of these topics is to: Topic 1 - What to Expect in Canadian Interviews - Manu Sharma Topic 2 - How to Present Diverse Skills Effectively to Employers - Manu Sharma Topic 3 - Checklist for Presenting Diverse Skills on Your Resume - Manu Sharma Topic 4 - Sample STAR … [Read more...]
Building TalentBridge: Core Pillars of Innovation, Creativity, and Resilience
From 2008 to 2012, I had the privilege of leading the TalentBridge program at OCRI, dedicated to developing practical innovators - young individuals from Ottawa ready to think creatively, adapt swiftly, and drive meaningful change. Our foundation at TalentBridge was built on a few key principles … [Read more...]
The Art of Slowing Down: Why We Need Long Form Reading in an Age of Speed
In today’s world, speed is king. We consume information the way we consume fast food - quickly, easily, and often with minimal satisfaction. Podcasts, video summaries, bite-sized blog posts, and endless social media scrolls all promise to save time. After all, time is money, right? So why would … [Read more...]
10 Strategy Frameworks for Success – For International Students and New Canadians
The purpose of these frameworks is to: Frameworks for Success1. 10 Strategies To Succeed in the Canadian Workforce:These strategies focus on professional growth, understanding workplace norms, and advancing your career in a Canadian context. 2. 10 Strategies To Get Along in Social and … [Read more...]