Ms. Damandeep Johar is the Chairperson of Admissions at Siva Sivani Institute of Management. She has completed her postgraduate diploma in business administration (PGDBA) from Siva Sivani Institute of Management, with specialization in HR and Marketing and has completed a course in Human Resources Management from XLRI, Jamshedpur and SHRM, India. She has with over 14 years of experience, both in industry and academics.

Ms. Johar is currently pursuing her PhD and is also an established trainer and facilitator with expertise in communication skills, soft skills and behavioral skills. She works across industries and educational institutions running short and long-term training workshops and programs. She is passionate about transforming young minds and making them industry ready through her training skills. In her capacity as Chairperson Admissions and Promotions, she aims to recruit students from all across India, to have a culturally diverse pool of students. She has also previously worked at the Indian School of Business (ISB) as an HR Manager.

Siva Sivani Institute of Management

What motivated you to pursue your career in the Education Sector? 

My motivation for a career in the education sector stems from a deep passion for nurturing young minds and preparing them for the challenges and opportunities in the professional world. I find immense fulfillment in helping students grow and develop their skills. Education, in my opinion, is the foundation upon which individuals build their futures, and I see myself as a facilitator in this transformative journey. I firmly believe that through education, we can make a positive impact on society and contribute to the development of well-rounded, responsible, and skilled individuals who can lead us into the future. It's a calling that allows me to combine my industry experience and knowledge with the joy of guiding the next generation.

What are the roles and responsibilities of an Chief Admissions Officer, and how does it contribute to the overall success of an educational institution?

The role of a Chief Admissions Officer (CAO) is pivotal in shaping the future of an educational institution. It involves overseeing the entire admissions process, from attracting prospective students to ensuring that the right candidates are admitted. This role also plays a crucial part in maintaining the institution's reputation and financial stability. In terms of responsibilities, I am responsible for developing and implementing admissions strategies, which often include outreach, marketing, and communication efforts to attract a diverse and talented pool of applicants. I work closely with my team to ensure that the admissions process is efficient, fair, and transparent. We review applications, conduct interviews, and make decisions based on the institution's admission criteria. Furthermore, the Chief Admissions Officer has a broader role in promoting the institution and enhancing its reputation. By recruiting students from various backgrounds, we foster a culturally diverse student body, which, in turn, enriches the overall educational experience. This diversity promotes creativity, cultural awareness, and global preparedness, and social responsibility, all of which contribute to the success and growth of the educational institution.

Communication is crucial in an admissions role. How do you tailor your communication to effectively reach and engage with prospective students and their families?

Communication is indeed a critical aspect of an admissions role, as it involves engaging with prospective students and their families to ensure a smooth and transparent admissions process. To tailor my communication effectively, I employ a personalized and empathetic approach. I begin by understanding the needs and concerns of prospective students and their families. This requires active listening and addressing their specific questions and worries. I ensure that all information about the admissions process, including requirements, deadlines, and financial aspects, is readily available and clearly communicated through various channels, such as the institution's website, social media, and informational sessions. I believe in one-on-one interactions and personalized engagement. This includes responding promptly to inquiries, offering campus tours, and hosting informational events that allow students and their families to connect with the institution on a personal level. I use a variety of communication channels, such as email, phone calls, social media, and in-person meetings, to reach a wider audience. This way, we can accommodate the diverse preferences of applicants and their families. Applying to an educational institution can be a stressful process, so I ensure that our communication is not just informative but also supportive and empathetic. We provide guidance and reassurance throughout the process.

How would you handle the challenges associated with ensuring diversity and inclusion in the admissions process?

Ensuring diversity and inclusion in the admissions process is a fundamental commitment for any educational institution. We establish inclusive admission policies that do not discriminate based on factors such as race, ethnicity, gender, or socioeconomic background. We actively engage in outreach programs to reach underrepresented communities and schools and offer scholarships and financial aid to make education accessible. Our holistic admissions process considers not only academic achievements but also other qualities, experiences, and backgrounds that each applicant brings to the table. We provide training and sensitization programs for the admissions team to ensure they understand the importance of diversity and inclusion and evaluate applicants without bias. Regularly assessing our admission processes and outcomes is essential to identifying areas where diversity and inclusion may need improvement and making necessary adjustments. By implementing these strategies, we create a welcoming and inclusive environment that values diversity as a source of strength and enrichment for the entire educational community, contributing to broader educational goals and preparing students for a more interconnected and globalised world.

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In your opinion, what are the key factors that make an applicant stand out in the admissions process, and how do you assess them?

In the admissions process, key factors that make an applicant stand out include not only academic excellence but also a well-rounded profile that demonstrates qualities such as leadership, community involvement, and a genuine passion for learning. We assess these factors by considering letters of recommendation, personal statements, and interviews to gain insight into an applicant's character and potential contribution to the educational community. While academic achievements are important, we firmly believe in the value of diversity and look for candidates who bring unique perspectives, experiences, and skills to our institution. Ultimately, we seek to admit individuals who not only excel academically but also have the potential to positively impact our campus and contribute to the broader educational experience.

Describe a challenging situation you encountered in your role related to admissions, HR, or communications. How did you handle it, and what was the outcome?

I encountered a challenging situation when we had a sudden surge in the number of applications during the admissions cycle. It posed a logistical challenge for the admissions team, as we had to ensure that all applications were reviewed thoroughly and fairly within the established timeframes. To address this situation, we implemented a more streamlined and efficient application review process, utilising technology to assist with the initial screening of applications. We also extended deadlines and provided additional support for applicants who faced technical difficulties. The outcome of these measures was a smoother and more transparent admissions process, resulting in a diverse and talented incoming class. This experience taught me the importance of adaptability and teamwork in addressing unexpected challenges in the admissions process.

Educational institutions often face changing regulatory environments and shifting demographics. How do you stay up-to-date with industry trends and adapt to new challenges?

Staying up-to-date with industry trends and adapting to new challenges in the educational sector is vital for maintaining the institution's relevance and quality. To achieve this, I engage in ongoing professional development by attending conferences, workshops, and webinars related to education, admissions, and human resources. I also encourage my team to participate in similar activities. Additionally, I regularly network with professionals in the field and collaborate with other educational institutions to share best practices and learn from their experiences. By actively seeking out information and fostering a culture of continuous learning, we can adapt to changing regulatory environments and shifting demographics, ensuring that our institution remains responsive to the evolving needs of our students and the broader community.

How do you foster a positive and inclusive work environment within the administrative team?

Fostering a positive and inclusive work environment within the administrative team is essential for achieving our goals and promoting a collaborative atmosphere. To do this, I emphasize open and transparent communication, encouraging team members to share their ideas, concerns, and feedback. We actively promote diversity and inclusion within our team, ensuring that each member feels valued and respected. We organize team-building activities, training sessions, and workshops focused on building effective communication, conflict resolution, and teamwork skills. Recognizing and rewarding individual and team achievements is also a significant part of creating a positive work environment. Ultimately, by fostering a culture of trust, collaboration, and support, we can enhance the overall effectiveness and cohesion of the administrative team, leading to better outcomes for the institution and its students.

Can you describe your vision for the future of SSIM and how do you plan to achieve it? 

My vision for the future of SSIM is to continue its growth as a leading educational institution that not only imparts quality education but also plays a significant role in shaping the future of its students and the communities they serve. To achieve this vision, I plan to focus on several key areas: academic excellence, diversity and inclusion, innovation in education, community engagement, global collaboration, and sustainability. My goal is to ensure that SSIM not only adapts to the changing landscape of education but also leads in setting the standards for academic excellence and ethical leadership. I'm committed to working closely with students, faculty, and staff to realize this vision and further solidify SSIM's reputation as a world-class educational institution.