Dubai Islamic Bank

Insight Support - Execute primary consumer insights projects per the business needs and provide actionable inputs in business decision-making.

Competitive Intelligence - Through social media monitoring & marketing spending analysis - keep internal stakeholders updated about competition product/service launches.

CX Monitoring & Reporting - Measure the bank relationship NPS score and chart out actionable problem areas for business units to action.

Trend Analysis - Monitor and report on macroeconomic trends of the UAE market & future trends in banking

Brand Strategy - Prepared strategic white paper to solve tactical business problems with the strategic framework

Actively involved in the launch of DIB Alt - Digital Full service banking from DIB

Lead - Customer insights 

Boston Consulting Group (BCG)

Sales Enablement - Asset the BCG sales team in preparing their proposal & business pitch documents built on research case studies

Analytics Expertise -  Assist the analytics team on their modelling projects through expertise in advanced techniques like segmentation, conjoint modelling, etc.

Project Execution & Presentation - Execute the consumer insight projects as per the casework requirement & present the strategic finding to the client

Recommendation Implementation - Work with the clients closely to implement all the recommendations from the insights project.

Publishing market leadership materials—Assist in developing a proprietary BCG database on key consumer topics and publish periodic leadership materials to showcase BCG's analytic capability to potential clients.

Sector Worked: 
Technology Startups, FMCG & Media Conglomerate 

Nature of Projects: 
Conjoint Modelling, Pricing research, Lapsing analysis, Global sustainability awareness, etc.

Expert Consultant

4SiGHT Research & Analytics

Job Profile
1. Business Development
2. Client Management
3, Project Management
4. Team Management
5. Mentoring/Skill development
6. Recommending Best Research Design
7. Advanced Analytics, Dashboarding & Reporting
8. Findings Presentation to clients

Nature of Studies Handled: U&A studies, Segmentation Studies, Product Testing, Concept Testing, Concept Use Testing, Pack Testing, Pricing Studies, Post Launch Evaluation, Diagnosing studies like Triggers & barriers, Volume Estimation studies, Media Effectiveness Studies, Brand Tracking, Conjoint/Maxdiff Studies, UX testing

Sectors: FMCG, automotive, banks, telecom, property developers, beverage and credit card network providers.

Geographical Footprint: UAE, India, Saudi, Egypt, Iran, Oman, Qatar, Nigeria, Morocco and Kuwait

Director Consumer Insights

Senior Manager - Insights

Manager - Insights

4SiGHT Africa Research & Digital Solutions

Act as the Quantitative Analytics consultant to the 4SiGHT Africa operation

Market Research - Analytics Consultant

IMRB International

Nature of Studies handled: Products tests (more than 50 studies), Pack Test, Name Test, Post Launch, Brand Tracking (milk products in Sri Lanka), U & A study to understand Alcohol Market in India (Study conducted in 23 major cities in India with 45000 Sample Size)

Categories Handled: Foods (pickles, ready to mix, ready to eat), Confectionaries, Chocolates, Personal care (soaps, shampoos, facial cream), diary (milk, butter, cheese and yoghurt), Alcohol

Tools Used: SPSS, AMOS, EXCEL
Job Roles :
1.	Drafting Proposal
2.	Initiating the study
4.     Materials preparation
5.	Field Management
6.	Analysis Coordination
7.	Data Interpretation & Presentation

Research Manager

ICICI Bank

To act as a one stop solution for all the ICICI privilege customer needs and try to increase their total relationship value with the bank by cross selling financial products based on their requirements.

Assistant Manager - Privilege Banker

I have over 14+ years of experience in market research, customer experience (CX) and consumer analytics. I am the Customer Insights Lead at Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB), assisting the various product and service functions in building customer-centric finance products for UAE residents. 

In my current role, I have partnered with a team of exceptional individuals and have been actively involved in shaping DIB's evolution into a customer-facing brand geared for its next growth phase. 

My professional passion deeply involves incorporating customers' stories into business decision-making. I am unwaveringly dedicated to helping key business owners navigate the rich landscape of consumer stories, believing that these narratives hold the key to truly customer-centric strategies. 

I play Padel Tennis with friends at the weekend, brainstorm business ideas, or experiment with new-age AI tools. I believe in the power of technology enablers like AI to help us perform our jobs effectively, and I am always eager to explore their potential. 

In my previous job as an expert management consultant at Boston Consulting Group, I was closely involved with assisting Tech start-up founders in solving their business problems. 

In my long experience with 4SiGHT, I was an integral resource in the company's evolution from a simple boutique MR firm to a multi-country global market research company. I contributed nearly one-third of their revenue until my tenure with them ended in 2021. 

I deeply care about sustainability and have been involved in projects related to global sustainability awareness and customer communities. 

I enjoy getting out of my comfort zone and exploring new things, and I believe in lifelong learning and continuous improvement.

I also thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to meet new people over a cup of coffee. Feel free to reach out on LinkedIn or DM me on Twitter (X) @itsnagarajan. I'm always open to new connections and conversations.

Key Data Science Skills: Python, Big Data, SQL, machine learning, Business Intelligence, Tableau, SPSS, Qualitrics, QuestionPro, XEBO etc. 

Key MR Skills: Segmentation research, Customer Experience Management (CX), Customer Journey mapping, Usage and attitude studies, Pricing studies—Conjoint, Maxdiff, UX Research, POS Analytics, etc.

"I don't know yet" - three simple words that transformed my perspective on success.

This is exactly the answer I gave to my hiring manager in my first market research job almost 15 years ago. 

The question was - Do you know how to use SPSS?

In a world obsessed with instant answers and perfect plans, admitting the truth feels like admitting defeat. But I've learned that these words aren't a sign of weakness but a gateway to growth.

Three years later, when I left my first job in market research, I became the most proficient user of SPSS on my team. I used the access to the software in the company to master it to the maximum extent possible. 

Next time you're faced with uncertainty, try embracing it. Add "yet" to your "I don't know" and watch how it transforms obstacles into opportunities.

What's something you don't know yet that you're excited to discover?

#PersonalDevelopment #CareerGrowth #Leadership #Learning #itsnagarajan

Nagarajan Rajasekaran CCXP

𝗡𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗴𝗶𝗮...

Last week, I visited the Warner Bros theme park in Abu Dhabi. 

I had zero expectations and just planned to keep my son entertained on his short break.

However, I had the most fun in the park, even a bit more than my son. 

I enjoyed the rides based on Justice League, Batman, Superman, Scooby-Doo, and Flintstones. 

I relived my wonderful childhood memories when I was used to seeing these character on the TV channels.

It's amazing how something as simple as a theme park can reignite that childlike joy and remind us of the importance of embracing our inner child. 

Walking through the vibrant scenes of my favorite cartoons brought back a flood of memories and reminded me of the creativity and imagination that often get buried under the responsibilities of adulthood.

This visit taught me that while we may have grown older, the magic is still very much alive if we take the time to seek it out. 

The researcher in me can't ignore the fact that the warner bros studio has offered a wonderful visitor experience by making me forget how much money I am spending. 

Here's to finding more moments of nostalgia in 2025 and joy in our everyday lives (sans money spending of course!)

#itsnagarajan #childhood #creativity

𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗶𝘀 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝘀𝘆𝗻𝗼𝗻𝘆𝗺 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗲𝘀...

It is only about crafting an engaging story to answer the business objective. 

The provided insight should help businesses solve problems, improve products, and reach new customers.

I have told business stories using Word documents, Excel files, and once even in a whiteboard with a pen. 

If you are clear about the story and can structure it properly, the story is the hero here - nothing else matters. 

Market research can make a real difference in the world. 
Let's use our skills and insights to help businesses succeed and improve the world. 🙂

#marketresearch #impact #insights #itsnagarajan

A hack to control your spending...

The greatest credit card hack that has helped me keep my spending in check is keeping my primary credit card limit equivalent to just a one-month salary. 

This change helped me keep my spends in control and it acted like a filter when I am temped with an impulse purchase. 

It comes with some challenges, but I am happy with this decision as the maximum outlay of my monthly credit card liability is just one month's salary.

Do you follow any trick to keep your spending in check?
Share your thoughts in the comments below

#itsnagarajan

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗜 𝗺𝗮𝗱𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗺𝘆 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗷𝗼𝗯...𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗻𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗲𝗻𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵!

IMRB Chennai office used to be a small unit occupying just two floors in a commercial building - hosting some 30 odd researchers.

If I was keen, I could have easily networked with all the researchers in that office. 

But I only hung out with my team members and had few interactions with other team.

It was a big mistake which I regret even years later.

Some of those 30 odd researchers have gone on to do brilliant work in this industry.

If I had put in the effort, I would have access to the wealth of knowledge, insights, and opportunities that these connections could have provided. 

Networking is not just about exchanging business cards or adding connections on LinkedIn; it's about building genuine relationships and learning from the experiences of others.

In hindsight, I realize that I missed out on potential mentors, collaborators, and friends who could have enriched my career journey. 

So, to those just starting out or even those well into their careers, I encourage you to take the time to network and build connections within your industry.

I know this is hard for introverts but still find a way to do it. 

You never know where those relationships might lead and how they might help you grow both personally and professionally. 

𝗥𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿, 𝗶𝘁'𝘀 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗼𝗼 𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗯𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗻𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸!

#itsnagarajan #networking

Write to clear your mind...

There is something wonderful about writing.
It is a meditative process by itself, it helps you to pour your thoughts into the sheets of paper.

My first boss in Kantar won't even talk to you if you don't carry a pen and paper to take notes.

Her point, you can't carry all in your mind.

I have carried that lesson till now, I never enter a meeting or a discussion with a notepad in hand. 

Off late, I have moved to a digital pad for convenience purpose but still love the feel of writing things in my hand.

Write your thoughts at least once a day, and your writing will set you free!

#writing #meditation #itsnagarajan

𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝗯𝗼𝗱𝘆'𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗹𝘆 𝗯𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀 𝗻𝗼𝗯𝗼𝗱𝘆'𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆...

Why do you need an Insights professional for your organization?

Have you heard of the concept "Bystander effect"?
According to Wikipedia, the bystander effect, or bystander apathy, is a social psychological theory that states that individuals are less likely to help victims in the presence of other people. 

In business terms, the victims will be your customers who are casualties of the bad business strategy. 

That's where an insight professional's role becomes important. 

The person can provide business direction, help set organizational goals, and hold teams accountable, fostering a culture where customers are prioritized, and their experience with the brand is continuously improved. 

#Insights #customer_insights #itsnagarajan

𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 - 𝟰/𝟱 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸𝘀 𝗜 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿....

Close your eyes and visualize the life you want to live in 2025.
Now open your eyes and see what prevents you from living that life.

Your answer and my answer will probably be "My Mindset."

The author (Grant Cardone)) tried to address that in the book, "The 10X Rule: The Only Difference Between Success and Failure" by Grant Cardone, which advocates for setting ambitious goals and committing to massive action to achieve extraordinary success.

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗾𝘂𝗼𝘁𝗲 - "𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗽𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝘀𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗴𝗼𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗵𝗶𝗴𝗵 𝗲𝗻𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵."

𝟱 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗽𝘁𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸:

𝗦𝗲𝘁 𝟭𝟬𝗫 𝗚𝗼𝗮𝗹𝘀: Aim for objectives ten times larger than you initially consider achievable. This approach challenges conventional goal-setting and encourages thinking beyond perceived limitations. 

𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗔𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Act ten times the standard effort to reach these lofty goals. This level of commitment distinguishes high achievers from the average, emphasizing relentless pursuit and dedication. 

𝗘𝗺𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆: Success is framed as a duty and obligation. Individuals empower themselves to effect change and drive progress by taking full responsibility for outcomes. 
"𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘁 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁. 𝗙𝗶𝗴𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀 𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿"

𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗙𝗲𝗮𝗿: Fear is presented as an indicator of potential growth areas. Sometimes, we overanalyze and get into a decision paralysis when we have to believe and act effectively. 

𝗔𝘃𝗼𝗶𝗱 𝗔𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴: Settling for average results is discouraged. Instead, striving for dominance in one's field through exceptional effort and commitment is promoted as the path to success. 

Adopting the 10X Rule encourages individuals to elevate their ambitions and actions, leading to significant achievements and a transformative approach to personal and professional success.

Have you read this book?
Share your thoughts in the comments below.

#book_summary #10XRule #itsnagarajan

UAE is home to several millionaires'...

In 2024, it is going to add another 6400 millionaires to its kitty.

I found one surprising reason an article stated for this move.

Privacy - Millionaires want their privacy which are increasing losing in the European countries due to disclosure guidelines & rise of populism.

The UAE has positioned itself as an attractive destination for high-net-worth individuals by offering a more discreet and secure environment for personal and financial affairs. 

With robust privacy laws and a strategic geographical location, it provides a haven for those seeking to protect their wealth and enjoy a high standard of living. 

Moreover, the UAE's commitment to economic growth and diversification, along with its world-class infrastructure and lifestyle amenities, makes it a compelling choice for millionaires looking to relocate. The absence of income tax and the presence of luxury real estate options further enhance its appeal.

This proves that comment made by the Economist on the UAE economy - "The messier the world gets, the more the UAE seems to thrive"


P.S. All sources in comments

#Privacy #millionaires #itsnagarajan

𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 - 𝟮/𝟱 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸𝘀 𝗜 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿....

Book - "Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World" by Adam Grant 

One of the great books I read this year was Hidden Potential, which made me seek out and read the author's (Adam Grant) first book - Originals. 

The book delves into the minds of individuals who challenge the status quo, offering insights into how originality can be cultivated and harnessed to drive meaningful change.

𝟱 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸:

𝗘𝗺𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗤𝘂𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗔𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗲 𝗤𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆: Grant emphasizes that producing many ideas increases the likelihood of generating exceptional ones. Historical figures like Picasso, who created thousands of artworks, demonstrate that prolific output often leads to masterpieces. 

𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗰 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗿𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Contrary to popular belief, delaying tasks can enhance creativity. Grant discusses the "Zeigarnik effect," where incomplete tasks linger in the mind, fostering innovative thinking. He cites Martin Luther King Jr.'s partly improvised "I Have a Dream" speech as an example of productive procrastination. 

𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝘂𝘀 𝗤𝘂𝗼: Original thinkers question default options and explore alternatives. Grant illustrates this with a study showing that employees who chose non-default web browsers performed better, suggesting that questioning defaults correlates with better performance. 

𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗥𝗶𝘀𝗸: Successful originals manage risk by securing stability in one area while taking chances in another. For instance, many entrepreneurs maintain their day jobs while developing new ventures, ensuring a safety net as they innovate. 

𝗙𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗢𝗿𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: Grant advises creating a culture encouraging dissent and diverse perspectives to combat groupthink. Organizations can cultivate an environment where originality thrives by welcoming constructive criticism and alternative viewpoints. 

The real work stories made this book interesting, especially the stories about the creation of Warby Parker, the I Have a Dream speech, etc. 

Have you read this book?
What are your thoughts on the same. 

#orginals #book_review #itsnagarajan

What is the one key ingredient that makes good research great?

It is speaking to the right respondents (as in the right target audience)

If you are not speaking to the right audience, all the feedback and key insights disappear.

Engaging with the right respondents ensures that the data collected is relevant and meaningful, providing a solid foundation for making informed business decisions. 

Hence, as a researcher, you should spend as much time as needed defining your target audience for the study.

#itsnagarajan #market_research

Do you ever feel like you're not good enough and others are far talented than you?

I have had this feeling the first few months of every job I have ever done.

The feeling of being an unskilled charlatan and that everyone will find out. 

I was not alone in having this feeling. 
According to HBR, close to 70% of working professionals have had this feeling at some point or another. 

Don't get worked up too much with this fleeting moment of self-doubt. 

If you're struggling with imposter syndrome, there are a few things you can do to overcome it:

𝗔𝗰𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗹𝗲𝗱𝗴𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀: The first step to overcoming imposter syndrome is acknowledging your feeling it. Once you've accepted your feelings, you can start to challenge them.

𝗥𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗮𝗰𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀: Make a list of your accomplishments, big and small. I go through my CV to acknowledge what I have achieved so far. 

𝗧𝗮𝗹𝗸 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁. Talking to a friend, family member, therapist, or coach can help you process your feelings and develop strategies for coping with imposter syndrome.

𝗣𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳-𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻. Be kind to yourself and forgive yourself for your mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes, and that doesn't make you a fraud.

Remember, you're not alone. Imposter syndrome is a common experience, and more or less, most people go through it. 

#imposter_syndrome #self_doubt #itsnagarajan

𝗡𝗼𝘁 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝘄𝗮𝗹𝗸 𝗮𝘄𝗮𝘆...

Be it a job, a negotiation or a relationship - knowing when to walkaway is golden.

Not everything needs closure, some relationship and some careers are meant to be left in the middle.

Choosing to walk away can lead to personal growth and new beginnings. 

It opens the door for new experiences that align more closely with who you are and what you want. 

Remember, every ending is also a new beginning.

Walking away doesn’t signify failure; rather, it can be an act of courage and self-respect.

Let this new year be a new beginning when you decide to walk away from relationship, career & habit that is not adding value to your life.

#newyear_newbeginings #itsnagarajan

𝗕𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗲 𝗺𝗲 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗜 𝘀𝗮𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 - 𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗴𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗲 𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗻𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗮𝗻 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁...

In 2024, I have seen multiple debates on how many hours an employee should work. Some popular suggestions from famous people in 2024 include Working 80 hours per week, working 6 days a week, working on all days of the week, etc. 

While I am all for work-life balance, in the first years of your career, you need to put in some form of hard work to sharpen your mind and pick up the necessary skills to survive. 

It might be an unpopular opinion on LinkedIn, but the long working hours I had during the first few years of my career helped me in the later years - I learnt what it takes to be a half decent researcher. 

I am not advocating you to get exploited. 

Do the hard work and make sure that you get the associated growth, rewards & recognition for it.  (I didn't get it)

It's essential to be strategic about the time and effort you invest. 

Seek out projects that challenge you and offer learning opportunities, and don't hesitate to ask for feedback along the way. 

Remember, it's not just about the hours you put in, but also about making those hours count (impact).

#itsnagarajan #hardwork #growthmindset

70% of iPhones in India are bought on EMI.

This stat got me thinking.

The famous line from Fight Club comes to mind:
"We buy things we don’t need with money we don’t have to impress people we don’t like."

Why this craze for iPhones? For many, it’s no longer just a phone. It's a status symbol, especially for young salaried professionals.

I still remember a colleague having her eyes set on an iPhone in 2012 when they weren’t as easily available. 

Instead of taking the easier EMI route, she saved diligently for six months.

That’s financial prudence—a value we seem to be losing sight of in today’s world of instant gratification.

What’s your take? Is the allure of a status symbol worth the debt? 

P.S. Stat source in the comment below

#instant_gratification #status #itsnagarajan

𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 - 𝟭/𝟱 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸𝘀 𝗜 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿....

Book - The Power of Moments by Chip Heath & Dan Heath

The book is all about capturing the metaphorical lightning in a bottle and has some close relevance to research professionals.

𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗺𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀
The book argues that "defining moments" aren't accidents of circumstance either in life or in Customer Experience (CX) but deliberate constructions of four key elements: 

𝗘 - Elevation
𝗣 - Pride
𝗜 - Insights
𝗖 - Connection

These elements make an experience more memorable and impactful. 

The authors meticulously break down each concept with real-life examples:

𝗘𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Moments that rise above the everyday, often by incorporating surprise or sensory delight, leave a lasting impression. The Heath brothers highlight how businesses like Ritz-Carlton delight guests through exceptional service moments that go beyond expectations.

𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗲: Moments of accomplishment, often marked by meaningful recognition, can elevate confidence and morale. The authors explore how celebrating achievements, from graduation ceremonies to workplace milestones, deepen their impact.

𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁: These are revelations or sudden realizations, often born from transformative experiences. The book suggests that fostering self-discovery and creating space for epiphanies can make a moment powerful. Strong insight into the customers' minds (need, desire & drive) is required to create a powerful CX experience. 

𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Shared experiences, particularly those involving vulnerability or deep emotions, forge bonds. The authors explore how weddings, retreats, or even team-building exercises bring people closer by fostering meaningful connections.

More than the concept, the stories and anecdotes in the book made it so interesting. If you are an insight professional, I recommend reading this book. 

I loved three stories in particular from the book - The Ice Lolly Hotline, the graduation ceremony & Fitbit milestones 

Have you read this book?
Share your thoughts in the comments below.


#Book #moments #itsnagarajan

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗘𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗺𝘆: 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮 𝗔𝗹𝗴𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗺𝘀 𝗔𝗿𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗽𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗘𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 ...

You would have heard about the "Yes Madam" strategy to go viral.

I was appalled by their initial post to fire employees, who self-rated as feeling stressed in their HR internal survey.

However, they have now stated that their campaign strategy is to raise awareness of workplace stress. 

They were aiming for people to become outraged so that they could go viral.

We live in an era where our digital experiences are increasingly designed not to inform but to enrage and make us react. I, too, was guilty of it. 

Social media algorithms seem to favour campaigns aimed at outrage rather than compassion.

The formula is frighteningly simple yet devastatingly effective: Provoke Strong Emotional Reactions. Let the truth be dammed.

FYI... the same outrage-feeding algorithms were responsible for mass killings in Myanmar a few years ago 
(Source:  Nexus Book by Yuval Noah Harari)

As professionals, we need to be aware of these algorithms' influence on our perceptions and interactions. 

It's crucial to evaluate the content we consume and share critically. 

Rather than contributing to the cycle of outrage. 
I have learnt my lesson not to react to any such foolish post in the future.

#social_media #manipulation #itsnagarajan

𝗙𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗵𝗮𝗯𝗶𝘁𝘀/𝘀𝗸𝗶𝗹𝗹𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗴𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗥𝗢𝗜...

𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴: A love for reading changes you as a person. It opens your Mind to possibilities and helps you stay sharp mentally.

𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝘂𝘁: A good workout should be part of your weekly routine. It will pay dividends in later years. We have only one body, and taking care of it is in our best interest.

𝗖𝗮𝗹𝗺 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗱: If you can master your Mind, you master your life. It is as simple as that, but almost all of us struggle. 

𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁: Managing money is not just for finance professionals. It is an everyday skill. You won't enjoy the full benefit of your hard-earned cash if you don't learn how to manage it effectively. 

𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲: Someone who has mastered his time effectively will always succeed. Time is one of the greatest non-renewal resources at our disposal. It would help if you optimized it ruthlessly for maximum impact on your life. 

These habits give you the greatest return on your initial investment, whether in your career or personal life. 

Did I miss out on something important?
Share your thoughts in the comments below.

#ROI_habits #itsnagarajan

𝗠𝘆 𝘁𝗼𝗽 𝟭𝟬 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰...

1. Learn to control your environment to better control your life

2. Be proactive in managing your health - after all you have only body in this life

3. In matters of health - always take a 2nd opinion

4. Don't stop learning - stop the rust from forming in your brain

5. Despite your best-made plans, things will always go for a toss - learn to handle it with grace

6. Work hard & make sure that everyone knows that you have worked hard - record your work

7. Try things outside your comfort zone

8. Have at least one productive habit - sport/gym/reading etc. 

9. Don't benchmark your real life with someone else reel life

10. Make time for your own self-discovery - meditation/journaling.

Which one resonated with you?
What is your top learning from 2024?
Share your thoughts in comments below

#2024 #itsnagarajan #learnings

𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 - 3/𝟱 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸𝘀 𝗜 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿....

Compounding is the 8th wonder of the world. 
The book explores how small, consistent actions can lead to significant, long-term results.

𝟱 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗽𝘁𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸:

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗹𝗲: Small, smart choices, when applied consistently over time, yield significant results. Similar to compound interest, this principle emphasizes that consistent, positive actions can lead to remarkable success, while negative choices can result in unfavourable consequences. 

𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆: The book underscores the importance of accepting responsibility for actions and decisions. By acknowledging that you are accountable for your choices, you empower yourself to steer your life in the desired direction. You want to know where your hard-earned money is spent—measure and track your expenses. You will notice that your unnessary spending coming down significantly. 

𝗛𝗮𝗯𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗕𝗲𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗼𝗿𝘀: The book emphasizes the significance of habits, noting that 95% of our behaviours result from learned habits. Individuals can create positive routines that support their goals by identifying and modifying these habits. 

𝗠𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗺: Building momentum through consistent effort can lead to exponential growth. Once positive habits are established and maintained, they create a powerful force that propels individuals toward their objectives. 

𝗜𝗻𝗳𝗹𝘂𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝗻𝘃𝗶𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁: The author emphasizes the impact of external influences, including the people we associate with and the information we consume. Surrounding oneself with positive influences and creating a supportive environment are crucial for sustaining success.

I would consider this book the third in the trilogy of mastering habit formation. The other two books are - The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg and Atomic Habits by James Clear. 

Have you read this book?
Share your thoughts in the comments below.

#book_summary #itsnagarajan #compounded_effect

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