On 25th July 2026, our PGDM batch (2026-28) attended an insightful guest session on "Corporate Etiquette and Power Dressing" conducted by Mr. Ankit Kalonia, Head of L&D at JLL India. The session was highly engaging and focused on the importance of developing a professional personality alongside technical knowledge.
Mr. Kalonia began by explaining that feedback is one of the most valuable tools for personal and professional growth. He encouraged us to remain curious, continuously learn, and willingly step outside our comfort zones, as real growth often happens when we challenge ourselves with unfamiliar situations.
A major highlight of the session was the discussion on Mehrabian's Theory of Communication, which emphasises that communication is influenced by three elements: words, tone of voice, and body language. He explained that while content is important, people are more likely to remember how we speak and the confidence with which we present ourselves.
The speaker also stressed the importance of self-awareness and encouraged us to think about our personal brand by asking a simple yet powerful question: "What do people know you for?" He introduced the PIE Model—Performance, Image, and Exposure, explaining that career growth depends not only on delivering good work but also on building a strong professional image and ensuring our contributions are visible.
Towards the end of the session, Mr. Kalonia highlighted the value of networking and lifelong mentorship. He encouraged students to seek mentors, participate in networking events, and take up stretch assignments and internships to gain practical exposure and expand their professional connections.
Key Learnings
- Communication extends beyond words: Effective communication depends not only on what we say but also on our tone of voice and body language, making confidence and presentation equally important.
- Self-awareness builds a strong personal brand: Understanding our strengths and identifying what we want to be known for helps create a positive and lasting professional identity.
- Growth comes from stepping outside the comfort zone: Taking on challenging situations, accepting feedback, and staying curious are essential for continuous personal and professional development.
- Career success requires more than performance: The PIE Model taught us that along with good performance, maintaining a professional image and increasing our exposure are crucial for career advancement.
- Networking and mentorship create long-term opportunities: Building meaningful professional relationships, seeking mentors, attending networking events, and pursuing internships can significantly contribute to long-term career growth.
Overall, the session provided practical insights into corporate etiquette, personal branding, effective communication, and career development. It motivated us to focus not only on academic excellence but also on developing the professional skills and mindset required to succeed in the corporate world.