Even the pandemic couldn’t stop Jaipuria Institute of Management, Noida student Shikhar Srivastava from getting placed with AXA XL Catlin

From scary headlines for weeks on end to funny but ironic memes that flooded the Internet, we have been put through an emotional wringer during the Covid-19 pandemic. The ground reality of the human toll and crippled economy has had a devastating impact. The industry all over the world is laying off professionals with years of experience behind them. Through these grim realities Jaipuria Institute of Management, Noida student Shikhar Srivastava’s story shines like a glimmer of hope. After all, he bagged a placement with AXA XL Catlin during these testing times.

The Lucknow boy enrolled with this top b school in Noida, Jaipuria Institute of Management, with dreams of a career in Finance. With an internship in Finance at Pristine Logistics and Infra Projects, he seemed well on his way to achieving his dreams. But then earlier this year the health catastrophe struck and rocked many smooth sailing boats. How did Shikhar turn the tide in his favor? “If you have the talent and skills that a company wants then they just can’t be hidden. The learning during my PGDM/MBA course at Jaipuria, Noida brought out the best in me and I was able to showcase those skills during the interview,” he says calmly.

His efforts won him the position of Claims Analyst with the global commercial insurance firm. It’s interesting to note that Shikhar received his offer letter on 6th March and started working remotely for the company from 21st April. Crisis or not, he was ready to go and prove himself. I imagine I will have to be quick off my feet, handling important tasks with less mentorship than in normal circumstances. But I feel I am prepared for it,” he claims analytically.

The selection process was set in motion online due to lockdown. Shikhar reveals that the first stage of selection was a phone interview with HR followed by technical screening and an interview with the Director where they evaluated his confidence and professional readiness. “The technical interview had questions about insurance as well as my internship. I had done my homework about the company and was helped by the Mock Telephonic interviews and training that I received at Jaipuria, Noida,” he says looking back.

During his time at the B-School Shikhar had the opportunity to do a live project in Finance besides being part of live projects given by his faculty members. He is also grateful to the placement department of Jaipuria, Noida as it conducted IDP sessions to prepare him for the selection process. For two years we have been trained to be adaptable and give our best in any situation. I am ready to do that in this uncertain business climate,” he speaks with the confidence and authority of an industry-ready professional.