A majority of Gen Z workers in India are reconsidering their career paths due to the challenging economic situation and work environment. They are actively seeking new jobs and are less optimistic about the job market compared to millennials. Factors driving this quest for newer jobs include better pay, flexibility, and work-life balance.

Amid ever challenging economic situation and work environment, majority of Gen Z in India is rethinking their career path either by obtaining newer skills and education to rise further in their careers or help get newer jobs.

According to the Pearson Skills Outlook Survey – Employee view, the Gen Z in India are likely to be more actively seeking a new job as compared to Gen X but are less likely to feel optimistic about the state of the job market compared to millennials. The survey pointed out that 88% of Gen Z workers in India have had to rethink their career path due to the uncertainties of the last three years. This is significantly higher than the 67% of millennials and 55% of Gen X workers who said the same.

With the quest for learning and skilling being a lifelong process, students must be encouraged to develop a growth mindset

India's pursuit of becoming a 5 trillion-dollar economy recognises the pivotal role that education plays in achieving this monumental objective Education stands as the most potent tool one can wield to reshape the world- Nelson Mandela In an era marked by globalisation and rapid technological progress, the global integration of education has emerged as a pivotal element in the development strategies of nations worldwide.

India, with its promising higher education landscape, currently hosts approximately 38 million students across a staggering 50,000 educational institutions, including a noteworthy 1,057 universities.

Expanding Opportunities for Students and Professionals

India's ambitious goal of doubling its current gross enrolment rate of 26.3% to 50% by the year 2035 harmonizes seamlessly with the global perspective on higher education. Notably, India holds the distinction of being the second-largest contributor of international students globally. The National Education Policy of 2020 has pledged to open up India's traditionally tightly regulated academic system to the global stage, ushering in an era characterized by inclusivity and collaboration.

The year 2022 witnessed a significant resurgence in the number of Indian students pursuing higher education abroad, with more than 6.5 lakh students venturing overseas, as reported by the Ministry of Education. This marked a notable increase from 4.54 lakh in 2017 to 5.86 lakh in 2019.

However, the COVID-19 pandemic led to a sharp decline, with only 2.59 lakh students going abroad in 2020. In 2021, over 4.4 lakh Indians pursued higher education overseas, reflecting a resilient spirit despite the challenges posed by the pandemic.

In a bid to offer a global educational environment to Indian students within the nation's borders, the Ministry of Education has forged strategic MoUs with Australian universities, Deakin and Wollongong, enabling them to establish campuses in Gujarat's GIFT City. This move provides Indian students with diverse global education options without leaving their homeland.

India's Journey towards a Globally Competent Education Hub

In a world that is increasingly interconnected, India stands on the precipice of a transformative journey, internationalising its higher education landscape to foster a more globally connected academic community.

India's pursuit of becoming a 5 trillion-dollar economy recognises the pivotal role that education plays in achieving this monumental objective.

Moreover, with a target of raising the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education to 50% by 2035 and plans to add 35 million seats in higher education institutions, the government of India has undertaken various initiatives to facilitate students:

Flexible Curriculum: The policy advocates for flexible higher education curricula, empowering students to explore diverse subjects in accordance with global trends.

Multiple Entry/Exit Points: It encourages students to enter and exit their educational journey at various stages, promoting lifelong learning and skill development.

National Research Foundation: This foundation fosters a robust research culture, attracting international scholars and researchers.

Technology Integration: Emphasis is placed on equitable technology use, exemplified by the National Educational Technology Forum.

Multilingual Education: The policy promotes education in multiple languages to cater to diverse student preferences.

Indian Knowledge Systems: It integrates India's rich knowledge heritage into mainstream education while connecting with global knowledge.

Vocational Education Integration: The policy blends vocational education with general education to equip students with practical skills.

Industry-Academia Collaboration: It encourages closer ties between educational institutions and industries for curriculum alignment and internships.

Reskilling and Upskilling: Recognising the importance of lifelong learning in a rapidly changing job market.

Inclusive and Sustainable Skills: Inclusive skill development initiatives, including fee relief for women and marginalised communities.

International Mobility: Initiatives like the Livelihood program enhance Indian youth's global employability. The Government of India has opened doors to a more diverse student body and fosters international collaboration, expanding opportunities for students and professionals alike.

Fostering Workforce Development in a Highly Dynamic Environment

In today's business landscape, companies operate within a highly dynamic environment. The ever-evolving technology sector, competition emerging from new industry segments, shifts in regulations and political events exert multifaceted influences on businesses. These shifts impose distinctive demands not solely on leadership but also on the entire workforce.

These transformations are not merely altering the processes of work, but they also affect the employees themselves and the very nature of their tasks. To remain pertinent in this rapidly changing era, it is imperative for individuals to continually enhance their skills and adapt.

To address the crucial need for upskilling and workforce development, the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) has collaborated with educational providers like Pearson to offer vocational training and skill development programs. This partnership plays a pivotal role in addressing the employability requirements of Indian youth and bolstering ongoing reforms in the education system.

Additionally, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has forged substantial partnerships with prestigious organisations, including Pearson, Infosys, Tata Consultancy Services, LinkedIn, CISCO, Microsoft, IBM, Amazon, deAsra, IITs, and numerous others. These collaborations empower the ministry to harness the knowledge and resources of these entities, resulting in the development of innovative and industry-aligned skill development programs.

In addressing the pressing challenge of the skill gap in Indian professionals aspiring to study or work abroad, it is crucial to invest in the workforce of the future. Thankfully, learning companies are creating an environment for upskilling and reskilling while leveraging the synergies between their workforce skills and English language learning divisions. The ability to embrace lifelong learning is now a critical asset for career and workplace growth.

ELP Unlocking Global Opportunities for Indian Skilled Professionals

English language proficiency is one such skill that provides Indian skilled workers an advantage to compete globally. NEP has emphasised both digitisation and the use of technology in education.

Various platforms are available to prove English proficiency for work, study, or migration abroad; one such platform is PTE Academic. It serves as evidence of English-language proficiency for visa applications in the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as for Indian students utilising the Student Direct Stream (SDS) for Canadian study applications.

As India opens its doors to diverse educational opportunities and facilitates international mobility, it not only expands horizons for its students but also strengthens its position on the global stage.

Initiatives aimed at curriculum flexibility, vocational integration, and industry-academia collaboration are shaping a more dynamic and responsive educational ecosystem.

Furthermore, India's efforts in workforce development, upskilling, and reskilling are essential in preparing its youth for the ever-evolving demands of the global job market. Collaborations with key players in the industry and the emphasis on lifelong learning are equipping individuals with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing environment.

By embracing internationalisation, India is nurturing future leaders equipped with the skills, knowledge, and cross-cultural competencies necessary to excel in an increasingly interconnected world.

( Author Vinay Swamy is the Country Head of Pearson India.)

About Pearson

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

Read More / Hindustan Times

Comprising a total of 16 books, this series aligns with the NCERT syllabus and encompasses course materials for Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics spanning grades 6th-10th.

Pearson India has introduced the NVision Foundation series, crafted to equip students for highly competitive entrance examinations like Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) and National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). This all-encompassing test preparation book series is tailored to aid students in their readiness for a spectrum of assessments, including JEE/NEET, school/board examinations, scholastic/competitive evaluations and olympiads such as NSO, IOM, IMO, NTSE, IOS and more, according to an official release.

Comprising a total of 16 books, this series aligns with the NCERT syllabus and encompasses course materials for Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics spanning grades 6th-10th. Commencing with course books for Science and Mathematics in grades 6th-7th, this foundation series delves into separate volumes for Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Biology catering to grades 8th-9th and 10th. This arrangement ensures a balanced distribution of diverse concepts across subjects while catering to the varied interests of students, the release mentioned.

Moreover, this series boasts a range of digital resources, including exam strategies, teacher’s orientation, selected concept infographics and student motivational videos. Additionally, it offers a digital assessment platform, providing students with a comprehensive and immersive exam preparation experience, as per the release.

“This year, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has reported 11.13 Lakh JEE aspirants and 20.87 Lakh NEET aspirants. It takes years of hard work to succeed in these exams. With our NVision Foundation series, we aim to enable a comprehensive preparation journey for the aspirants. The books are authored exclusively by experienced educators from Kota and include a wide variety of learning material, such as solved examples, concept maps, and previous years’ papers and digital learning tools, for thorough understanding and practice,“

Vinay Swamy, country head, Pearson 

About Pearson

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

Read More / Financial Express

Canada has started accepting PTE Academic test centre scores for all its Student Direct Scheme applications.

Pearson, the world’s learning company, has unveiled an impressive 76% surge in Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) volumes on a global scale during the first half of 2023. A key factor in this remarkable growth is the burgeoning market share of PTE Academic in India.

Driven by the increase in PTE volumes, the English Language Learning business of Pearson has grown by 44% globally, in H1 2023. In the full-year results for 2022, Pearson had delivered 827,000 PTE tests globally, which was a 90% increase over the pandemic-affected 2021.

Earlier this year, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recognized PTE-Academic as an acceptable test for all SDS (Student Direct Stream) applications and PTE-Core as proof of English language proficiency for Canadian permanent residency or citizenship.

Prabhul Ravindran, Director of English Language Learning, Pearson India, said, “We recognize a significant aspiration among individuals to invest in their education and English Language proficiency, enabling them to pursue studies and employment opportunities overseas. Our mission is to support these learners by granting them enhanced accessibility to PTE, along with our comprehensive array of English Language Learning solutions. The flexible test centre booking options, faster results, global acceptance, and ample free resources to practice make PTE Academic one of the most preferred English language proficiency tests available today.”

Furthermore, as of August 10th, 2023, Canada has started accepting PTE Academic test centre scores for all its Student Direct Scheme applications. Under the Student Direct Stream (SDS), students from Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Vietnam can apply for an expedited study permit process in Canada.

The UK, Australian, and New Zealand governments for all visa applications also accept PTE Academic. PTE Academic is accepted by thousands of universities across Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, the UK and the USA. PTE can betaken at more than 445 PTE canters in 117 countries.

About Pearson

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

Read More / Financial Express

Canada’s Student Direct Stream (SDS) will now accept Pearson’s PTE Academic test centre scores for all applications. The SDS process allows for an expedited study permit application process for students from select countries applying for Canadian study programs. Before the addition of PTE, only CELPIP and IELTS General Training were accepted as proof of English proficiency by Canada's Immigration, Refugees, and Citize .

Starting today, Canada will start accepting PTE Academic test Centre scores for all its Student Direct Stream applications.

Earlier this year, Canada's Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) approved of Pearson’s English language proficiency test.

PTE Academic tests taken before August 10 will be eligible for SDS provided they are submitted after this date and are within the expiry period stipulated by IRCC.

SDS is an expedited study permit process for students applying to study in Canada from Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Vietnam.

Before addition of the PTE, IRCC accepted only the CELPIP and IELTS General Training as proof of English proficiency for economic class candidates.

To be eligible for the Student Direct Stream, you need to

· Have a college acceptance letter.

· Live outside of Canada when applying.

· Have proof you have paid your tuition for your first year of study.

· Have a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of Canadian $10,000

· Medical exam result

· Have a English proficiency test results

· Latest educational transcripts

The UK, Australian and New Zealand governments already accept PTE Academic for all visa applications. PTE Academic is also accepted by 100 per cent of Australian, New Zealand and Irish Universities, 99 per cent of UK universities, and more than 90 per cent of universities in Canada.

About Pearson

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

Read More / The Economic Times

PTE Academic helps Indian students to enhance their chances of obtaining admission to their dream universities abroad.

By Prabhul Ravindran

As reported by the Ministry of External Affairs, over 7,50,000 Indian students went abroad last year to pursue higher education, and this number is projected to reach 1.8 million by 2024. In fact, Indian students currently make up the second-largest cohort of international students worldwide.

As millions of students plan on studying abroad each year, and majority of them aspire to go to English-speaking nations, they usually need to prove their English language proficiency.

Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic is a widely recognised computer-based English language proficiency test that measures a test taker’s English language proficiency to assist educational institutions that require a standard of academic English proficiency for admission purposes. A good score in PTE Academic demonstrates that the candidate can easily express themselves in English and successfully thrive in English-speaking countries. PTE Academic is bringing aspirants closer to their dream of studying abroad, here’s how:

Ample resources to practice

PTE Academic offers a wealth of resources to help students prepare for the test. From practice tests, sample question banks to online tutorials, students get to access a wide range of tools that cater to their diverse learning styles. These resources help boost a student’s confidence while also improving their English language proficiency. To help students overcome doubts, Pearson offers a step-by-step guide enlisting the process and providing a broader picture of the activities to be performed during the PTE Academic exam.

International acceptance

PTE Academic is accepted by prestigious universities worldwide such as Harvard Business School, INSEAD, Yale and thousands of universities across Canada, Australia, New Zealand, USA, UK and Ireland. As of August 10th, PTE Academic scores are now accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for all Student Direct Stream (SDS) applications. PTE Academic test scores are now accepted by more than 90% of Canadian universities, including McGill University, and the University of British Columbia.

Flexible booking and fast results

Students can opt for PTE Academic at more than 400 PTE centres in 117 countries at their convenience. Furthermore, students can book PTE Academic up to 24 hours in advance and benefit from year-round worldwide test centre slots. PTE Academic, is a single, short test that measures a student’s English speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. For students who wish to avoid waiting time, PTE Academic is the best choice as the results are available within 1.3 days on average.

Unmatched transparency

PTE Academic leverages advanced Technology for optimum security, such as biometric data collection and voice recognition software for correct and secure results. PTE notifies students about score accessibility by sending an email. The test scores can only be accessed by students through an online account.

Fair scoring

PTE Academic is widely known as a fair, reliable, and unbiased assessment, offering a level playing field for students from diverse backgrounds. It offers a convenient option for Indian students to prove their English language proficiency, thereby, enhancing their chances of obtaining admission to their dream universities abroad.

PTE brings together human expertise and the latest AI technology to deliver an English language proficiency test that is both impartial and highly accurate. AI technology is used for scoring and biometric data collection provides enhanced security measures. PTE is delivered through Pearson VUE, the computer-based testing business of Pearson. PTE Academic is available to aspirants through Pearson VUE, the computer-based testing business of Pearson.

Conclusion

For study abroad aspirants, PTE Academic offers an opportunity like no other. With PTE Academic, students get the option to send their test scores to as many universities as they wish with no additional cost. This increases the possibility of acceptance and offers students ample opportunities to achieve their dreams of studying abroad. Additionally, the flexible test centre booking options, faster results, global acceptance, and ample free resources to practice make PTE Academic one of the most preferred English language proficiency tests available today.

About Pearson

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

Read More / Financial Express

Vinay Kumar Swamy is the Country Head of Pearson India, a leading learning company. With over two decades of experience, Swamy plays a pivotal role in enabling Pearson India's digital transformation and profitability, utilizing his extensive expertise in finance, corporate strategy, and mergers & acquisitions. He is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India.

One thing that keeps you motivated

I believe that every moment of the day holds the potential for growth and development, and I am driven by the continuous pursuit of knowledge. Embracing a mindset of continuous learning serves as the fuel that propels my motivation to push boundaries and strive for excellence in all aspects of my role.

One thing that is the biggest driving factor of your success

Adaptability and experience have been the key driving factors in my journey. As a Chartered Accountant, I have earned valuable experience that allows me to adapt swiftly to changing environments, emerging technologies, and various business domains. This adaptability, combined with a deep understanding of different industries, has been instrumental in my success as a business leader.

One thing that inspires you every day

As I reflect upon my professional journey, I am reminded of the moments that have shaped my passion for continuous learning. Often, when I take a moment to relax and enjoy a cup of aromatic filter coffee, it triggers fond recollections of my school and college days. These cherished memories encapsulate the core of lifelong learning, the invigorating atmosphere of educational spaces, and the enthusiasm of learners of all ages. Working with Pearson India has provided me with an opportunity to witness the eagerness of learners in diverse learning environments. The inquisitive minds seeking knowledge and their desire for exploring new horizons fuels my inspiration. It serves as a constant reminder of the profound influence lifelong learning can have on their personal and professional journeys, motivating me to awaken each day with renewed enthusiasm and unwavering dedication

One thing that you (as a business leader) must tell everyone

I firmly believe in a customer-first approach. Understanding the evolving needs, preferences, and challenges faced by our customers is crucial for delivering relevant and impactful solutions. At Pearson India, we place great emphasis on regularly engaging with our customers and staying attuned to their feedback. This proactive approach allows us to tailor our offerings, enhance their experience, and foster long-lasting relationships. By prioritizing a customer-centric approach, we lay the foundation for sustainable growth and ensure our organization remains at the forefront of its excellence.

One thing that you (as a business leader) must not tell anyone

As a business leader, it is of utmost importance to never speak negatively about your teams. We are all humans which means that we all make mistakes from time to time, but it is our responsibility to foster an environment of support, growth, and trust. We should strive to empower our teams, encouraging open dialogue, and offering guidance to overcome obstacles. By nurturing a culture that values collaboration and learning from mistakes, we build resilient and high-performing teams that drive collective success.

One thing that future leaders must know

Future leaders must recognize that the rapid advancements in technology, such as AI and Machine Learning, are reshaping the business landscape at an unprecedented pace. In India, where technological adoption is accelerating, it is essential for future leaders to embrace agility and remain open to leveraging these transformative tools. Adapting to technological advancements will be key to staying relevant, streamlining operations, and delivering innovative solutions. By proactively incorporating technology into their strategies, future leaders can unlock new possibilities and drive sustainable growth in the ever-evolving business world.

About Pearson

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

Read More / The Economic Times (HR World)

Of all the “soft skills,” communication is the most vital for career growth and one of the most difficult to master. Many highly talented individuals sometimes fail to achieve the desired job, or if they already have the dream job, struggle to climb the corporate ladder as they cannot effectively convey their thoughts and ideas. Today, being skilful alone is no longer sufficient and does not guarantee professional success. You can’t climb the corporate ladder simply because you can write codes well or are good at engineering. Irrespective of the industry a professional belongs to, the top achievers, or those seen as the leaders in their role, are always the ones who are considered more than capable just in their primary roles. They are all good communicators. Good communication skills can set you apart from others; it can augment the effectiveness of your work; empower you to make crucial decisions, help build professional relationships and get ahead in your career. In today’s complex and dynamic business environment, with thousands of communication tools, remote multicultural teams spanning different time zones, effective communication has never been more important or more challenging.

Lifelong learning

A new study estimates that poor communication in the workplace leads to loss of $1.2 trillion annually among US businesses, which is about $12,506 per employee. The ability to communicate well is the most critical skill one can have. The good news is that it can be learned and even mastered. Coaching and mentoring are integral tools for communication skills development, as they can help identify areas that need improvement, develop an action plan, and offer guidance and support on the way to achieving the goals. Mentoring also offers a great opportunity for individuals to learn from others and improve key skills and broaden their professional knowledge.

Observing how effective communicators interact with team members, clients, and others can help develop new communication techniques and styles. This can be very helpful for not only apprentices but also leaders and CEOs who are new to their roles or dealing with new challenges that require a different style of communication. Continuous learning and training opportunities in the workplace have the potential to expand an individual’s perspective, enhance communication skills and knowledge retention, generate new ideas, boost morale, and raise overall performance.

Best of both worlds

88% of Indian workers agree the world is shifting to a model where people participate in learning and education over their lifetime. Building a robust skill set comprising both hard skills and soft skills can take an individual’s career to the next level. While hard skills are primarily job-specific and are learned through work experience, soft skills refer to an individual’s ability to interact and work with others. Individuals looking to improve their hard skills may take up educational courses specializing in a particular skill, get personalized tutoring, or enrol in a specialized course.  Soft skills on the other hand are more difficult to learn but are equally important. It is no secret that communication and critical thinking go hand in hand. As per recent industry reports, across all generations in India, human skills such as decision-making and problem-solving dominate the top skills felt needed for career advancement and skills currently being developed. In India, technical skills like AI/ML, data processing, and coding are also priorities across age groups, specifically when considering skills of the future.  If an individual is unable to think critically about obstacles, issues, and information available, communication won’t be as meaningful and impactful. Therefore, it is important to work on developing skills related to problem-solving and decision-making to communicate effectively. These skills are highly valued by employers and essential for individuals aspiring to climb up the corporate ladder.

Communicating better

The ability to communicate is considered to be a leader’s most critical skill. An effective communicator leverages a range of listening styles and pays close attention to what others have to say. To be a good communicator, it is important to be clear and concise, practice active listening and be aware of non-verbal cues like one’s body language, tone of voice, etc. Another great way to improve communication skills is public speaking. The ability to articulate thoughts clearly in front of a large group can magnify your strengths and weaknesses and lead to improved communication styles. Today, there are several platforms available online that offer professional courses to help you improve your communication skills and get certified.

Similarly, as most of the communication, today is written, it is important to focus on improving written communication skills as well. Written communication lacks non-verbal cues, so it is crucial to consider the reader’s perspective, understand the purpose and have a clear context when writing. Developing effective written communication skills is a continuous process since it is a skill that is developed over time, so practice is the key.

The bottom line

Effective communication is the building block for a successful career. It is how leaders set expectations, convey their ideas, and motivate others to succeed. However, effective communication goes beyond information sharing. It is about understanding the audience and delivering ideas and thoughts in a way that resonates with them. Today, one of the most important aspect of effective communication is humility. By being willing to accept feedback and open to new approaches one can continue to grow to be a leader. Remember, effective communication is not only about speaking and conveying your ideas. It’s about actively listening, learning, and adapting to your audience as well. Whether you are an apprentice, a CEO, or simply someone who wants to improve their communication skills, there’s always room to improve and grow.

About Pearson

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

Read More / The Times of India

With this appointment, the company has strengthened its leadership team in India.

Pearson has announced the appointment of Siddharth Parnerkar as the new international sales director to lead the workforce skills vocational qualifications business across Europe (outside UK), India Hub, MENAT, Greater China and APAC regions. With this appointment, the company has strengthened its leadership team in India to grow the workforce skills business.

Parnerkar comes with an experience of over two decades in business development, sales, marketing, strategy, P&L management, product and brand management, and digital transformation. Prior to joining Pearson, Parnerkaar had a long stint of 16 years at Vodafone, where he held key leadership roles to drive the growth of their b2b and strategic alliances business, managing JVCo and M&A opportunities, and launch of new businesses in the mobile commerce space. His most recent assignment was with Vodafone Oman with a 5G, digital first start-up operation.

Talking about the appointment, Jane Baker, vice president, workforce skills at Pearson said, “Organisations across the world are witnessing significant shift in attitude of the workforce towards upskilling. As per the latest Pearson Skills Outlook Report, 88% of Indian workers believe they need to keep relearning and training throughout their careers to remain relevant to their employers. Indian organisations have kept their priorities abreast with this trend and are working towards strengthening the learning and capabilities of their workforce. Siddharth’s experience and expertise will be instrumental in driving Pearson’s endeavour to address the upskilling requirements of the workforce and help organisations understand, maintain and enhance their most important asset, their people.”

Before Vodafone, he has worked with Reliance Communications for five years where he was responsible for managing their fixed wireless business and leading sales and business initiatives in the prepaid business. Apart from these, he has worked with Bharti Airtel Limited, Eastman Kodak Company and Videocon International Limited.

“The present and future of work in India is changing rapidly, fuelled by the digital transformation of organisations, across different sectors. Understanding, nurturing and upskilling the workforce is of utmost importance for businesses with a future-ready outlook. With Pearson India, I will be focusing on building strategic synergies to create a lifelong learning environment for upskilling and reskilling, which can enhance education, employability, and global mobility of the Indian workforce,” Siddharth Parnerkar, international sales director, workforce skills, Pearson India, added.

Moreover, Parnerkar has the expertise of driving growth for large business portfolios in India as well as global markets. His educational credentials include a postgraduate diploma in business management (PGDBM) from XLRI – Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur and a bachelor of science (BSc) degree in statistics from St. Xavier’s college, Mumbai.

About Pearson

At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c.20,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s leading learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are.

Visit us at: www.pearsonplc.com

For more information, please contact: Bhavya Suri, PR & Corporate Affairs, Pearson India & MENA- bhavya.suri@pearson.com

Read More / The Financial Express