Shikkhar Suri: Stop Undercharging and Start Commanding Global Rates

Achieving the title of Director – Growth is a career milestone many professionals spend years chasing. Shikkhar Suri reached that peak, then decided to step away. It wasn't for a lack of prospects; his eight-year track record across startups and major corporations had equipped him with deep expertise in scaling businesses, marketing, and growth strategy. His resume included stints at Google, American Express, Uber, Zomato, and Blinkit, culminating in a Director – Growth role at a US-based firm.

Yet, a persistent question nagged at him: Why do so many skilled Indians struggle to command the compensation they deserve? It wasn't a deficit of ability. Professionals across the country—from engineers and designers to freelancers and consultants—possess world-class expertise. Despite this, many find it difficult to secure better roles, win international clients, or advance their careers.

Shikkhar realized the answer was surprisingly straightforward. The issue wasn't talent; it was positioning. "Colleges teach people technical skills. Companies teach execution. But very few teach people how to communicate their value, build credibility, or position themselves for global opportunities," says Shikkhar.

This insight fundamentally shifted his career trajectory. Rather than continuing his ascent up the corporate ladder, Shikkhar abandoned the stability of a leadership position to pursue a broader objective: empowering Indians to build careers and businesses that transcend geographical boundaries.

In many ways, this wasn't his first foray into an unconventional path. Back in 2012, well before artificial intelligence became a household term, Shikkhar taught himself computer vision to develop a tool assisting the visually impaired in recognizing numbers. It cemented a principle that continues to guide his work: technology only delivers genuine impact when applied to solve real-world problems.

Today, through his education platform, Shikkhar guides working professionals, entrepreneurs, freelancers, and agency owners on how to establish a global presence. He helps them secure remote work, attract international clients, and utilize AI to remain competitive in an increasingly borderless economy.

His educational initiatives have evolved into a community of over one million followers, impacting more than 50,000 students, professionals, freelancers, and entrepreneurs.

When asked what distinguishes those who thrive from those who remain stagnant, Shikkhar’s perspective is consistent. "The world isn't short of talent. It's short of people who know how to communicate the value of that talent."