In this episode of Desperate Times, hosts Sakshi and Varun engage in a deep conversation with Shaunakk about his remarkable journey from the hospitality industry in India to a marketing career in Germany. They explore the challenges of reinventing oneself in a new country, the impact of personal loss on career choices, and the cultural shocks faced while adapting to life in Germany. Shaunakk shares insights on the importance of language, the realities of the hospitality industry, and the lessons learned through his experiences. This episode is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of passion in one's career. In this conversation, Shaunakk shares his journey from a small town to a bigger city in Germany, discussing the cultural shock and challenges he faced in his early career. He reflects on the inspiration he drew from advertising legends like Piyush Pandey and the impact of creativity in marketing. The discussion shifts to the difficulties of navigating the job market in Germany, the mental health challenges associated with job hunting, and the importance of personal growth during desperate times. Shaunakk emphasizes the need to adapt to changing circumstances and the value of dreaming big, while also acknowledging the struggles faced by many immigrants in their pursuit of success.

Takeaways

• Shaunakk transitioned from hospitality to marketing in Germany.
• Personal loss can be a catalyst for major life changes.
• Working in hospitality provides invaluable life lessons.
• Language proficiency is crucial for career advancement in a new country.
• Cultural shocks can significantly impact the adaptation process.
• The importance of networking and mentorship in career development.
• Marketing requires creativity and adaptability.
• Work-life balance varies greatly between cultures.
• Experiencing different industries can broaden one's perspective.
• Resilience is key to navigating career transitions. Cultural transitions can be challenging but rewarding.
• Gratitude for opportunities can shape one's career path.
• Inspiration from industry legends can ignite passion.
• Creativity in advertising is essential for impactful messaging.
• Job hunting can be mentally exhausting and requires resilience.
• Personal growth often comes from navigating difficult times.
• The job market can be influenced by global events.
• Maintaining mental health is crucial during job searches.
• Adapting to change is necessary for success.
• Dreaming big can lead to unexpected opportunities.

Sound bites

"Marketing is not rocket science."

"Job hunting is a full-time job."

"Desperate times shape you."

Chapters

(00:00) Reinventing Yourself: A Journey of Change

(16:32) Navigating the Learning Curve: From Hospitality to Marketing

(20:16) The Evolution of Marketing Education

(21:16) Navigating Life in a New Country

(26:44) Coping with Culture Shock

(30:43) The Impact of Influential Figures in Marketing

(34:06) The Struggle for Creativity in Advertising

(41:34) Adapting to Change in Marketing

(43:02) Job Hunting Challenges in Germany

(45:29) The Struggles of Job Applications

(48:02) Finding Balance in Desperate Times

(52:09) Cultural Insights and Travel Opportunities

(55:20) Personal Stories of Desperation and Growth