Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal Gets 10K Job Applications for a Role Without Salary but a ₹20 Lakh Fee
A recent job posting by Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal has sparked widespread discussions. This unique position, offering no direct salary but requiring a ₹20 lakh upfront fee, received an overwhelming 10,000 applications. The response highlights shifting career priorities and the growing value professionals place on mentorship and entrepreneurial experiences.
What Was the Role?
The job was far from conventional. Instead of a traditional paycheck, it promised exclusive mentorship under Deepinder Goyal, access to Zomato’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, and an opportunity to work on impactful projects. Candidates had to pay a ₹20 lakh commitment fee to secure the position. Despite these terms, the response was massive, reflecting the allure of learning directly from one of India’s most influential business leaders.
Why Did 10,000 People Apply?
The Power of Deepinder Goyal’s Brand
Deepinder Goyal is not just a CEO; he’s a symbol of entrepreneurial success. His journey in transforming Zomato into a global powerhouse resonates with many aspiring professionals. The chance to learn directly from such an accomplished leader was seen as priceless.
The Growing Trend of Experience Over Salary
In today’s job market, professionals, especially in the startup ecosystem, increasingly prioritize unique experiences and opportunities for growth over financial compensation. The role at Zomato offered unparalleled exposure, making it an attractive option.
Exclusivity Drives Demand
The ₹20 lakh fee added an air of exclusivity to the position. For many, this barrier represented an investment in future career growth, heightening its appeal among ambitious candidates.
What Does This Say About the Job Market?
The response to this role sheds light on evolving trends in the professional landscape:
- Professionals today seek roles that offer growth opportunities beyond traditional boundaries.
- The entrepreneurial spirit is flourishing, with many individuals eager to learn directly from industry leaders.
- The emphasis on gaining knowledge and skills is increasingly outweighing the need for immediate financial rewards.
The Controversy
The job posting, while innovative, has sparked debates. Critics argue that the ₹20 lakh fee is exclusionary, limiting opportunities for talented but less financially privileged individuals. Others question whether such models perpetuate elitism in the professional world. However, supporters believe the fee ensures only the most serious and committed applicants apply, aligning with the idea of investing in oneself.
Key Takeaways
Both professionals and organizations can draw lessons from this unique situation:
- For Professionals: Unconventional roles can offer unmatched learning opportunities, but they require careful evaluation of risks and rewards.
- For Organizations: While exclusivity can attract top talent, accessibility and fairness must not be overlooked.
Ultimately, the response to this job posting underscores the evolving priorities of the modern workforce. It highlights how professionals increasingly value mentorship, exposure, and the potential for personal growth.
