Always be thoughtful while choosing the right subject whether you have a natural interest in that subject…

Nandini P. Gowda- Management Professional

Nandini P. Gowda is a management professional with a strong academic background. She holds a B.Tech and an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore. She began her career in the corporate sector, where she gained experience in structured and high-performance environments. She currently engages in digital marketing consulting, teaching, and creative practice. She provides advice as a mentor on foundational digital marketing, emphasizing clarity and practicality.

In addition to consulting, Nandini also practices glass painting, which reflects her interest in design and storytelling. She believes that the true meaning of education is its application in the real world. She believes that meaningful work requires clarity of direction and the courage to think outside the box.

Here are the highlights of our conversation with him on education-related issues:

When did you start considering entrepreneurship as a serious option? Was it a gradual transition or a clear turning point?

My clarity developed over time. I started with a specific purpose, but as I was exposed to different subjects and thinking, I began to understand myself better. I would say I moved from a specific purpose to a more thoughtful direction that better aligned with my natural interests and strengths. I already had the idea of ​​entrepreneurship in mind, but I wanted to gain some experience first. So it was a slow transition. I gradually moved towards entrepreneurship.

What was the reason behind your decision to do MBA?

Deciding to pursue an MBA was a well-thought-out decision. I wanted to build a strong foundation in business and gain some real-world experience before moving into entrepreneurship. The MBA experience not only introduced me to business concepts but also to diverse ways of thinking. Studying with peers from diverse backgrounds, including international students, gave me a global perspective and understanding of working styles.

I loved the freedom to create independently and solve problems my way. Entrepreneurship expands thinking and influence, which I really enjoyed.

What kind of person truly succeeds in digital marketing, and who might struggle even if they’re academically strong?

People who are naturally curious, adaptable, and willing to learn do well in this field. On the other hand, those who expect immediate results or seek fixed formulas will find it challenging, even if they have a strong educational background.

What should today’s youth keep in mind before choosing digital marketing as a career?

Young people should carefully consider whether they enjoy both the analytical and creative aspects of work. Digital marketing sits at this intersection. They should be willing to invest time in learning real skills rather than expecting immediate results.

How is technology, especially AI, changing the field of digital marketing today? Looking ahead, what changes do you see in this field over the next few years, and how should young professionals prepare for them?

AI is rapidly transforming this field by automating many routine tasks and speeding up execution. This means that the real value will lie in thinking, strategy, and decision-making, not just execution. In the coming years, the field will become more integrated, and professionals will need to understand multiple aspects rather than working in separate fields. Developing strong fundamentals such as communication, critical thinking, and adaptability will be essential.

If you were starting your career again today, would you choose the same educational and professional options or do something different?

If I were to start over, I would still focus on building a strong academic base. I would also try to gain real-life exposure earlier so my decisions are more informed. As for making a difference, I would spend more time understanding my strengths and preferences and how they connect with different career paths. This clarity will help me in the long term.

It makes a significant difference. What advice would you give to young girls considering a career in digital marketing or entrepreneurship?

I would encourage young girls to believe in themselves and not lose confidence over small setbacks. Challenges and failures are a natural part of any journey and shouldn’t be seen as a reason to stop. It’s also important to recognize that the world doesn’t always provide equal opportunities. This makes it even more important for women to support each other. Building confidence, staying persistent, and supporting each other can make a significant difference.

What advice would you give to mothers of girls coming into this field?

To mothers, I would say that while guidance is important, it is equally important to provide space for exploration and independent thinking. Today’s career paths are more dynamic than ever before, and encouraging curiosity, adaptability, and self-belief can help young girls move forward with confidence.

CAREER TIPS

  • MBA not only teaches business concepts but also teaches how to create a different perspective.
  • Analytical thinking and creativity play a big role in digital marketing.
  • If you are curious and can adopt new things then this field is for you.

– Garima Pankaj