In a recent podcast, film critic Virendra shared insights into the Bollywood fallout between Salman Khan and Vivek Oberoi, and why Vivek’s career took a sudden downturn. He clarified that while there was a rift between the two actors, it was Vivek’s decisions that impacted his career more than any rivalry. From a mishandled press conference to dismissing advice, his journey provides valuable lessons for all working professionals. Here are five key career mistakes to avoid, inspired by Vivek’s experiences in Bollywood.
1. Avoid Taking Workplace Conflicts Public
One of Vivek’s biggest professional missteps was addressing his differences with Salman Khan in a public press conference. Virendra pointed out that the industry noticed this move, and producers and directors felt hesitant to work with him afterward. Their concern was simple: if Vivek could publicize his issues, he might do the same for work-related conflicts.
Lesson: In any workplace, airing grievances publicly can harm your reputation. It creates distrust among colleagues and management, who might question if you’ll expose internal issues on social media or other platforms. If you face a problem with someone at work, try to resolve it privately or through HR channels, ensuring your professionalism remains intact.
2. Don’t Let Overconfidence Overshadow Growth
According to Virendra, one of the reasons Vivek’s reputation suffered was due to perceived overconfidence. The industry chatter indicated that he often came across as overly self-assured, which created distance between him and his peers. While confidence is essential in any career, overconfidence can make others feel undervalued and alienated.
Lesson: Striking the right balance between confidence and humility is key. While you should believe in your abilities, it’s also crucial to respect others’ contributions and opinions. Overconfidence can prevent you from learning and adapting, two qualities essential for professional growth. Remember, people are more willing to collaborate with someone who values teamwork and considers others’ perspectives.
3. Value the Advice of Mentors
During the filming of Kisna, Vivek received advice from renowned director Subhash Ghai. Ghai told him, “You have the potential to become like Shahrukh Khan, but the problem is you think you’ve already made it.” Although Vivek later realized the value of this advice, at the time, he didn’t take it seriously.
Lesson: Mentors often see our strengths and weaknesses more clearly than we do. Their guidance can help shape our careers, so it’s wise to listen, evaluate, and apply their advice. Learning from the experiences of those who have succeeded can be a shortcut to success. Ignoring their input can limit your growth and cause you to miss important learning moments.
4. Always Prioritize Professionalism and Restraint
Vivek’s career path shows the importance of exercising restraint and professionalism, especially when dealing with conflicts. As Virendra noted, Vivek’s public statements and actions following his issues led many to question his judgment. Instead of maintaining a composed public image, Vivek’s handling of the situation suggested impulsiveness, impacting his reputation in the industry.
Lesson: In any field, your behavior during challenging times speaks volumes. Maintaining professionalism, even in personal struggles, can protect your image and reassure those you work with that you’re capable of handling pressure. When dealing with difficult situations, keep your responses measured and professional, as this will safeguard your career in the long run.
5. Consistently Assess and Improve Your Work Approach
Vivek’s experiences reflect how essential it is to continually assess your approach to work. After achieving early success, he seemed to feel he had already “made it,” which may have prevented him from striving for improvement. When professionals start seeing their initial achievements as the final goal, they risk stagnation, leading to missed opportunities.
Lesson: Never stop assessing and improving your work. Complacency is often a barrier to long-term success. Successful people keep evaluating their work, learning new skills, and adapting to changes in their field. Staying open to growth opportunities, learning from mistakes, and constantly seeking feedback are essential to reach your potential.
Final Thoughts
Vivek Oberoi’s career offers valuable insights into what can make or break a professional journey. From avoiding overconfidence to valuing mentorship, these lessons apply to anyone looking to protect and grow their career. By keeping a balanced attitude and focusing on continuous growth, you can navigate challenges more effectively and maintain a positive reputation in any workplace.
