IMI Kolkata Director: Redefining Success Beyond First Salary for Indian Students

For many Indian MBA aspirants and their families, success is still defined by the first salary offer, with placement headlines and “highest CTC” announcements often overshadowing learning outcomes and long-term career growth. Mohua Banerjee, Director of IMI Kolkata, explains that this mindset persists because salary is an easily measurable figure, reinforced by societal prestige and B-school rankings. However, she argues that this narrow definition no longer reflects the evolving job market, shaped by AI, sustainability, and skill disruptions. Dr. Banerjee warns against equating career success with just the first paycheck or designation, highlighting that an MBA is a journey of professional and personal transformation.

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Dr. Banerjee argues that the first job after an MBA is just an entry point, not a career destination. With rapid industry changes driven by AI, climate risks, and supply chain shifts, professionals must adapt constantly. Focusing solely on salary can leave graduates unprepared for evolving roles. She stresses the importance of developing judgment, adaptability, and ethical reasoning to stay relevant across career transitions. Dr. Banerjee also advocates for evaluating ROI beyond salary, looking at learning depth, emerging skills, and alignment with real-world demands. At IMI Kolkata, ESG and sustainability are core managerial skills, reflecting the need for sustainable decision-making in business today.

Dr Banerjee says Success in the AI Era Requires Judgment Not Just Technical Skills

Dr. Banerjee addressed concerns over employability as AI and analytics reshape entry-level management roles, stating that technical skills alone won’t guarantee career longevity. While IMI Kolkata emphasizes proficiency in tools like Excel, Power BI, SQL, and Python, she stressed the importance of combining these skills with managerial judgment. As AI increasingly influences business decisions, future managers must understand bias, accountability, and risk, and be able to translate data insights into actionable decisions for diverse stakeholders. Dr. Banerjee highlighted that employability today depends on analytical fluency and sound judgment. To ensure graduates are ready for data-driven environments, the institute integrates AI and analytics across all disciplines. She also pointed out the need to challenge students’ fixed ideas about success, encouraging long-term resilience over short-term goals through mentoring, alumni engagement, and industry interactions.

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