The Hindu Business Line : Leader Speak

To all the young hopefuls out there who plan on being a manager someday, somewhere, let me tell you about the qualities that have influenced me in my own growth.

These have stood the test of time and are as relevant as they were years ago. In fact, these are the qualities I seek when I hire today.

Passion: Ensure you are in the right field, so you enjoy what you do. Your heart needs to be in what you do.

There is a lot of difference when you just do something and when you are passionate about doing it.

Commitment: Even when you lack many things, your commitment and determination will get you there.

Your commitment will reinforce your credibility and credibility is everything for a manager.

Precision (quality): Quality is everything in a globally competitive market. You are no longer operating in isolation under the protective cover of tariffs and subsidies.

You are competing globally and on your own merit. Global costs, global revenues and global quality. You don't have to do everything, but be the best in whatever you do; at least that is what you should aim at. Quality and excellence in place of quantity and mediocrity.

Integrity: This aspect of life and business has never changed. You are what your integrity is. It is all about trust and principles and a man with questionable integrity has never reached anywhere.

Care and respect for the individual: This is the backbone of leadership. And a good manager will be a good leader. You are for your team and you are because of them. Your people are your only asset. Learn to give all credit to your team and they will return it many fold!

Finally, you, the manager: You cannot be the manager because of your appointment. You are there because of the professional and person that you are.

You will never convince your colleague by arguing, but will convince him when you reason out with him.

You will cut through all resistance with ease because of your politeness and respect for others, which costs you nothing. As a great manager, you are modest because you know how little you really know. And it takes a lot of learning for you to know that.