Shaadi.com’s Anupam Mittal Joins Trend, Seeks ‘Chief of Staff’

Social media recently went into overdrive when Deepinder Goyal, CEO of Zomato, announced a rather unconventional job post for the role of Chief of Staff. In a surprising twist, Goyal revealed that applicants would need to contribute INR 20 lakh to Zomato to secure the position for a year. While the job promises real-world learning, offering exposure to Zomato’s key initiatives—Hyperpure, Blinkit, and Feeding India—it also sparked curiosity and a wave of backlash online.

The INR 20 lakh contribution, as clarified later, was meant as a screening test and would be directed to Feeding India, Zomato’s charitable initiative. Despite some criticism, the post received an overwhelming 18,000 applications, highlighting the allure of a hands-on experience akin to a top-tier MBA program.

Anupam Mittal’s Quirky Response

Amid the buzz, Shaadi.com founder Anupam Mittal jumped into the conversation with a playful LinkedIn post. Known for his sense of humor, Mittal invited those who couldn’t afford the INR 20 lakh fee to apply for the same position at his company. He wrote:
“All those who can't afford to pay my friend Deepi 20 lacs, please send me your application. I am looking for a Chief of Staff too—although I don't exactly know what one does!”

Adding a touch of humor, Mittal outlined the application process for his ‘Chief of Staff’ role. He proposed a six-month probation period titled ‘Chief of What?’ before transitioning the candidate to his Mumbai office. His tongue-in-cheek approach quickly caught attention, adding a lighter note to the ongoing debate.

The Internet Reacts

Mittal’s post instantly resonated with his followers and job seekers alike, showcasing his witty response to Goyal’s unusual job listing. While Zomato’s initiative sparked polarizing opinions, Mittal’s playful move offered a fresh perspective, making light of the situation and engaging potential applicants.

What Makes These Roles Unique?

Both positions, though approached differently, highlight the growing trend of companies offering unconventional career opportunities with an emphasis on real-world exposure. These roles are designed to go beyond traditional job descriptions, immersing candidates in high-stakes projects and organizational strategies.