The Hindu Business Line : Managers should think like leaders

A leader should have vision and should be able to articulate it in a manner that inspires everyone. From that vision, the leader should be able to encourage individuals and teams to plan and execute actions such that people see themselves making progress towards a common goal.

Leaders should be fearless when making and communicating decisions that are centred on principles. Their own actions should always be consistent with the principles. Leaders should define goals and boundaries, but let people decide how they can achieve them. They should play a support role whenever needed. Leaders should always be seen to appear fair without any kind of prejudice. They must have the ability to get an insight into problems, and develop solutions.

An incident from your life, or, what you observed, which you think was great leadership?

I have come across incidents in my personal life that portray exemplary leadership — how people have made a difference to an entire family by their actions and deeds.

In the business arena, I have seen people taking tough decisions which are principled, though these decisions may not entirely serve their personal objectives.

Such leaders enjoy the respect of their teams and people repose complete confidence in them.

Ways in which young managers can develop leadership skills?

Young people should start by developing leadership thinking. That is the ability to visualise and simplify a complex situation.

Being able to quickly assess the risks and the rewards simultaneously and look at the upside.

They should develop a ‘can do’ attitude in every situation.

Instead of worrying about whether things will work or not, they should develop a habit of taking charge of situations and encouraging others to join. This should be developed around their everyday life — at home among friends, schools, offices, and even at social occasions.

These qualities can be developed better from a young age.

Who is your leadership ideal in the corporate world - India or global?

Ratan Tata in the Indian context and Louis Gerstner otherwise. — Pradeep Sen, MD, NCR Corporation India.

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