Meet the Sheroes - Nithya David

'Sometimes opportunities are right next to you and you don't even notice it!'

Today we share the story of enterprising entrepreneur – Nithya David. She founded Upstream – a Human Resource Recruitment Company that today boasts of a prestigious clientele from all over India. Knowing about her and her business is definitely worth a read. With her experience and professional background in the industry, there is a lot you can take away after speaking to her!

How did the idea of Upsteam come about?

Sometimes opportunities are right next to you and you don't even notice it! 

I always liked networking and was good at it. And during my advertising and marketing stints, I had built a network of friends, colleagues and acquaintances. I used to connect potential candidates and companies without even realizing the business potential of it. However one such senior level placement led me into thinking seriously about starting a talent recruitment firm. 

That's how Upstream, my company was born.  It's been 8 years and currently we do advertising and marketing recruitment with all leading agencies and corporate houses across India.

How do you differentiate your company from other talent houses in India?

Without pointing fingers, I just feel that other companies just aggregate and send out resumes randomly.

While my advertising and marketing experience in India and abroad gives me a real understanding of the requirements. And that helps me scout for the right talent. Also, my background helps in having intelligent conversations with senior personnel on both sides. 

In the Indian job market, what do young women aspirants lack?

Most of the young women I come across want to get into advertising because it seems like such a fun, cool environment to be in when you are young. Just like an extension of college. And they think that agencies pay you for having fun!

But reality hits after they join, because at junior levels, advertising is very tough. Then they start hopping from agency to agency, hoping for less work and more money. Finally, after 4-5 years of completely ruining their careers, they turn to marketing. The reason again is very simple, "...more money." Most of them stick on only till they marry. That's why you see very few successful women in advertising and marketing.

The new generation is simply not willing to stick on and fight it out. And they have no sense of 'long term'.  

What are the top 3 tips women should keep in mind to get ahead in their careers?

Inspiration: Be very clear of why you want to be in a certain industry or profession. Be inspired enough to join it.    Money should never be the inspiration to join or leave a company.

Focus: Certainly, at times, it will look like you made a mistake. The trick is to not lose focus of what you set out to do. Tomorrow, as they say, is another day.

Perseverance: Lee Clow, the legendary creative guru at TBWA\ Chiat Day said, "talent is nothing without perseverance." I agree.

What are the key elements to balance your professional and personal life?

I honestly don't feel like its two different planets that I have to straddle. Especially since most people I know are advertising/ marketing professionals or entrepreneurs. Yes, there is paperwork and legal/admin mandatory stuff that I find annoying, but otherwise it's no big juggle, really. 

What are the long term plans for your company?
Going forward, I would like to work with new sectors like e-commerce and entertainment. 

I would be very happy if in a couple of years, Upstream becomes the preferred career-enhancer for professionals in these sectors. We are almost there.