“Success is the product of successive setbacks” – Prof.M.S.Rao
Dear friends,
I wish you a very happy and prosperous New Year 2010
As we approach New Year we need to set our resolutions which must be SMART. First of all, take stock of your achievements in the year 2009. And, of course, look for setbacks as well. Examine why you did not reach your goals. Was it due to internal or external factors? If it were due to internal factors you need to accept the facts and own responsibility. If it were due to external factors such as disturbances or distractions you don’t have to worry much.
Before you set your goals, be specific. That means what do you want become or what do you want to achieve in the year 2010. Unless you have clarity and be specific it becomes difficult to achieve your goals.
You need to measure your goals. How long does it take to reach your goals? Quantifying the same helps you in moving forward smoothly. Thirdly you must be able to achieve the goals. If you set the goals which are beyond your human limitations, you get discouraged. Therefore, set achievable goals. The goals have to be reasonable and realistic. These should not be based on fantasy or daydreaming. Finally you need to check the status of your goals which is possible only when you can track time to time. It is also about reviewing for the results and taking feedback. If you did not achieve, you must be able to check where the problem was. It enables you to stay focused on your goals.
After setting the goals, it is time for your action, involvement, efforts and energies. If you feel that the goal is big, then break it into small parts and execute. Don’t get distracted with minor disturbances and diversions. Get back to the main track and start moving. Stay away from negative people who may throw a spanner into your good works. Keep moving ahead with a firm optimism and confidence that one day is your day.
Therefore, don’t wait. Set SMART resolutions and hit bull’s eye.
All the best
Be Well,
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Saturday, December 26, 2009
"Telugu Talli Is Bleeding - Stay United, Come What May" - Prof.M.S.Rao
Love your mother but don’t hate others’ mother. Love your caste, region, religion, language and community. But don’t hate others’ caste, region, religion, language and community.
The current crisis in Andhra Pradesh has left deep scars among Telugu hearts. People are getting divided on regional lines emotionally. It is mainly due to the vested interests of political parties. It is the movement sparked by politicians who have been rejected by the electorates. It is an attempt to boost their sagging morale. Adding fuel to the fire, there are several new players who are fishing in the troubled waters. It is a situation where everyone is trying to hit the limelight at any cost in the name of fasts. If fake fasts go on in this way, nobody would take fasts seriously in future. If the current situation is not managed properly, it will develop deeper ill-feelings and further differences among the people of all regions. In that case, it would become a tough task to heal their wounds.
Politicians are poisoning the minds of the people for their political gains. Do not develop hatred against your brothers of other regions. Don’t get into the trap of politicians who never die for people, but let innocent people die for them. Spot those culprits and keep them at a bay.
Our Telugu Talli has three sons – Telangana, Rayalaseema and Andhra. She would weep when one of her sons wants to be separated. For any mother, all children are equal. No mother likes the separation of her sons as she alone knows the pain of separation. If there are any differences, let three sons sit together across the table, negotiate and resolve their differences amicably without hurting Telugu Talli.
Germans were hurt when Germany was separated. They were excited when they were united. Let us learn lessons out of unification and maintain the geographical unity of Andhra Pradesh.
Media at the regional level should play a constructive role in appreciating the commonalities rather than highlighting the differences among Telugus. It should place the facts and figures dispassionately forgetting the competition they have among themselves.
The intellectuals should come forward to enlighten the people about the facts. Let us keep the secessionist elements at bay. If a particular region has not progressed, what were the politicians of the region doing until now? It is the politicians of the region who must be made accountable and responsible for backwardness of the region. They should accept the blame and look at the ways and means to set right the regional imbalances.
Resolving the Tangle:
Telangana, Rayalaseema and Andhra have different dialects, but the language is Telugu. You cannot divide a State just because of different dialects. Address the issue of backwardness politically. If there is no proportional representation, find out and explore ways and means to represent a particular region proportionately in terms of employment, festivals and local cultures.
India is a land of unity in diversity. So is the case of Andhra Pradesh where people of all faiths and regions live together with fraternity. We need to respect the diversity not by dividing but by recognizing and acknowledging. We cannot keep dividing States just because of diversities. If it were so, then every district would become a separate State.
It appears that Telanganites are asking for fair share but not a separate State. However the Telangana leaders are asking for separate State for their political survival and success. There is a clear difference between asking for a separate State and asking for a fair share. The problem currently is for fair share. Therefore, address the issue accordingly.
Telanganites are not against fellow Andhrites and Rayalaseemites. They want fair share of cake. However the politicians are exploiting the current situation. Let us look at the root of the problem. It is basically for fair share not separate state. The Telangana leaders have converted it as a separate statehood for their political gains and survival. All Telugus are one although their dialects are different. All Telugus have one heart although their physical bodies are different. Let people realize and respect and let not the political leaders incite people on regional lines.
Role of Students:
Students should focus on their goals rather than focusing on politics in campus. They must take care of their careers. They should have clearly defined goals to stay focused. They should take care of their parents who pinned their hopes in them. If they are so much interested in politics, they can take up politics as a career after completion of their academic qualifications. They should be mature enough to realize the gimmicks of politicians who are using them as pawns. If anything goes wrong, their parents would suffer. No politician dies in fast unto death leaving exceptional leaders like Potti Sreeramulu. And everybody cannot become Potti Sreeramulu. The present day politicians focus more on their self interests rather than the interests of the people.
Stay United, Come What May:
All Telugus should rationally think and act. Don’t become emotional and get incited by notorious politicians. I emotionally appeal to all Telugu fraternity cutting across caste, religion, regional, national and geographical barriers to stay united to defeat the politicians who are misusing the youth for their political gains. I appeal them to remain calm, cool and composed.
Always take pride of being an Indian and being a Telugu but not being a Talanganite or Andhrite or Rayalaseemite. Jai Hind!
The current crisis in Andhra Pradesh has left deep scars among Telugu hearts. People are getting divided on regional lines emotionally. It is mainly due to the vested interests of political parties. It is the movement sparked by politicians who have been rejected by the electorates. It is an attempt to boost their sagging morale. Adding fuel to the fire, there are several new players who are fishing in the troubled waters. It is a situation where everyone is trying to hit the limelight at any cost in the name of fasts. If fake fasts go on in this way, nobody would take fasts seriously in future. If the current situation is not managed properly, it will develop deeper ill-feelings and further differences among the people of all regions. In that case, it would become a tough task to heal their wounds.
Politicians are poisoning the minds of the people for their political gains. Do not develop hatred against your brothers of other regions. Don’t get into the trap of politicians who never die for people, but let innocent people die for them. Spot those culprits and keep them at a bay.
Our Telugu Talli has three sons – Telangana, Rayalaseema and Andhra. She would weep when one of her sons wants to be separated. For any mother, all children are equal. No mother likes the separation of her sons as she alone knows the pain of separation. If there are any differences, let three sons sit together across the table, negotiate and resolve their differences amicably without hurting Telugu Talli.
Germans were hurt when Germany was separated. They were excited when they were united. Let us learn lessons out of unification and maintain the geographical unity of Andhra Pradesh.
Media at the regional level should play a constructive role in appreciating the commonalities rather than highlighting the differences among Telugus. It should place the facts and figures dispassionately forgetting the competition they have among themselves.
The intellectuals should come forward to enlighten the people about the facts. Let us keep the secessionist elements at bay. If a particular region has not progressed, what were the politicians of the region doing until now? It is the politicians of the region who must be made accountable and responsible for backwardness of the region. They should accept the blame and look at the ways and means to set right the regional imbalances.
Resolving the Tangle:
Telangana, Rayalaseema and Andhra have different dialects, but the language is Telugu. You cannot divide a State just because of different dialects. Address the issue of backwardness politically. If there is no proportional representation, find out and explore ways and means to represent a particular region proportionately in terms of employment, festivals and local cultures.
India is a land of unity in diversity. So is the case of Andhra Pradesh where people of all faiths and regions live together with fraternity. We need to respect the diversity not by dividing but by recognizing and acknowledging. We cannot keep dividing States just because of diversities. If it were so, then every district would become a separate State.
It appears that Telanganites are asking for fair share but not a separate State. However the Telangana leaders are asking for separate State for their political survival and success. There is a clear difference between asking for a separate State and asking for a fair share. The problem currently is for fair share. Therefore, address the issue accordingly.
Telanganites are not against fellow Andhrites and Rayalaseemites. They want fair share of cake. However the politicians are exploiting the current situation. Let us look at the root of the problem. It is basically for fair share not separate state. The Telangana leaders have converted it as a separate statehood for their political gains and survival. All Telugus are one although their dialects are different. All Telugus have one heart although their physical bodies are different. Let people realize and respect and let not the political leaders incite people on regional lines.
Role of Students:
Students should focus on their goals rather than focusing on politics in campus. They must take care of their careers. They should have clearly defined goals to stay focused. They should take care of their parents who pinned their hopes in them. If they are so much interested in politics, they can take up politics as a career after completion of their academic qualifications. They should be mature enough to realize the gimmicks of politicians who are using them as pawns. If anything goes wrong, their parents would suffer. No politician dies in fast unto death leaving exceptional leaders like Potti Sreeramulu. And everybody cannot become Potti Sreeramulu. The present day politicians focus more on their self interests rather than the interests of the people.
Stay United, Come What May:
All Telugus should rationally think and act. Don’t become emotional and get incited by notorious politicians. I emotionally appeal to all Telugu fraternity cutting across caste, religion, regional, national and geographical barriers to stay united to defeat the politicians who are misusing the youth for their political gains. I appeal them to remain calm, cool and composed.
Always take pride of being an Indian and being a Telugu but not being a Talanganite or Andhrite or Rayalaseemite. Jai Hind!
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Christmas and New Year Greetings to Bloggers - Prof.M.S.Rao, Where Knowledge is Wealth, India
Dear Bloggers,
I wish you a very happy Christmas and New Year.
I thank all of you for your overwhelming support and comments. Since I cannot reply to everyone individually, I am conveying you the greetings through this blog.
You may post your valuable comments directly on the blog itself to add value to the readers as well as to appreciate your ideas and viewpoints.
Always remember one thing in your life, 'Failure is only a comma, not a full stop'.
Be well,
Prof.M.S.Rao, India
Trainer, Teacher and Author
I wish you a very happy Christmas and New Year.
I thank all of you for your overwhelming support and comments. Since I cannot reply to everyone individually, I am conveying you the greetings through this blog.
You may post your valuable comments directly on the blog itself to add value to the readers as well as to appreciate your ideas and viewpoints.
Always remember one thing in your life, 'Failure is only a comma, not a full stop'.
Be well,
Prof.M.S.Rao, India
Trainer, Teacher and Author
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
“All Telugus across the World Must Unite” – Prof.M.S.Rao
Love your mother but don’t hate others’ mother. Love your caste, region, religion, language and community. But don’t hate others’ caste, region, religion, language and community.
The current crisis in Andhra Pradesh has left deep scars among Telugu hearts. People are getting divided on regional lines emotionally. It is mainly due to the vested interests of political parties. It is the movement sparked by politicians who have been rejected by the electorates. It is an attempt to boost their sagging morale. Adding fuel to the fire, there are several new players who are fishing in the troubled waters. It is a situation where everyone is trying to hit the limelight at any cost in the name of fasts. If fake fasts go on in this way, nobody would take fasts seriously in future. If the current situation is not managed properly, it will develop deeper ill-feelings among the people of all regions. In that case, it would become a tough task to heal their wounds.
Our Telugu Talli has three sons – Telangana, Rayalaseema and Andhra. She would weep when one of her sons is willing to be separated. For any mother, all children are equal. No mother likes the separation of her sons. If there are any differences, let three sons sit together and resolve the differences without hurting Telugu Talli.
Germans were hurt when Germany was separated. They were excited when they were united. Let us learn lessons out of unification and maintain the geographical unity of Andhra Pradesh.
Media should play a constructive role in appreciating the commonalities rather than highlighting the differences among Telugus. It should place the facts and figures dispassionately whatever the competition they have among themselves.
The intellectuals should come forward to enlighten the people about the facts. Let us keep the secessionist elements at bay. If a particular region has not progressed, let us find out why it has not progressed. What were the politicians of the region doing until now? It is the politicians of the region who must be made accountable and responsible for backwardness of the region. They should accept the blame and look at the ways and means to set right the regional imbalances.
Conclusion:
All Telugus should rationally think and act. Don’t become emotional and get incited by notorious politicians. I emotionally appeal to all Telugu fraternity cutting across caste, religion, regional, national and geographical barriers to stay united to defeat the politicians who are misusing the youth for their political gains. I appeal them to remain calm, cool and composed.
Always take pride of being an Indian and being a Telugu but not being a Talanganite or Andhrite or Rayalaseemite. Jai Hind
The current crisis in Andhra Pradesh has left deep scars among Telugu hearts. People are getting divided on regional lines emotionally. It is mainly due to the vested interests of political parties. It is the movement sparked by politicians who have been rejected by the electorates. It is an attempt to boost their sagging morale. Adding fuel to the fire, there are several new players who are fishing in the troubled waters. It is a situation where everyone is trying to hit the limelight at any cost in the name of fasts. If fake fasts go on in this way, nobody would take fasts seriously in future. If the current situation is not managed properly, it will develop deeper ill-feelings among the people of all regions. In that case, it would become a tough task to heal their wounds.
Our Telugu Talli has three sons – Telangana, Rayalaseema and Andhra. She would weep when one of her sons is willing to be separated. For any mother, all children are equal. No mother likes the separation of her sons. If there are any differences, let three sons sit together and resolve the differences without hurting Telugu Talli.
Germans were hurt when Germany was separated. They were excited when they were united. Let us learn lessons out of unification and maintain the geographical unity of Andhra Pradesh.
Media should play a constructive role in appreciating the commonalities rather than highlighting the differences among Telugus. It should place the facts and figures dispassionately whatever the competition they have among themselves.
The intellectuals should come forward to enlighten the people about the facts. Let us keep the secessionist elements at bay. If a particular region has not progressed, let us find out why it has not progressed. What were the politicians of the region doing until now? It is the politicians of the region who must be made accountable and responsible for backwardness of the region. They should accept the blame and look at the ways and means to set right the regional imbalances.
Conclusion:
All Telugus should rationally think and act. Don’t become emotional and get incited by notorious politicians. I emotionally appeal to all Telugu fraternity cutting across caste, religion, regional, national and geographical barriers to stay united to defeat the politicians who are misusing the youth for their political gains. I appeal them to remain calm, cool and composed.
Always take pride of being an Indian and being a Telugu but not being a Talanganite or Andhrite or Rayalaseemite. Jai Hind
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
“Lagadapati is the Actor, Ram Gopal Varma is the Director – What is KCR?” – Prof.M.S.Rao
The way Lagadapati escaped from the government hospital in Vijayawada and appeared in NIMS (Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences) hospital in Hyderabad yesterday (21 Dec 2009) looks like yet another action flick of Hollywood. Lagadapati alighted the auto rickshaw and ran inside the hospital and jumped over the bed. It all demonstrates his better acting skills and, of course, his high energy levels. Probably Ram Gopal Varma (who is fondly called Ramu in the film industry) might be the script writer and Lagadapati proved well by enacting effectively. We need to applaud the media for telecasting the incident number of times in television channels.
Ramu helped Lagadapati when they studied in Siddhartha Engineering College, Vijayawada. Of course, Lagadapati was one year junior to him in college. Ramu was basically a helpful person by nature and helped Lagadapati in college rivalries. Perhaps Ramu might have also helped Lagadapati this time also.
The incident provides entertainment for movie buffs who like to enjoy Lagadapati’s actions. It also serves as a trigger for weaving a story for making a film.
Lagadapati Rajagopal is the Member of Parliament from Vijayawada constituency of Andhra Pradesh (India) with political ambitions. He wants to fill the political vacuum created due to the death of Y.S.Rajasekhara Reddy by fighting the cause of united Andhra Pradesh.
It is very strange to note the way he gave slip both in Vijayawada and NIMS, Hyderabad.
Probably K. Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) must be thinking for not acting so well like Lagadapati when he fasted unto death recently. It must be because KCR does not have a good friend like Ram Gopal Varma to enact better.
Ramu helped Lagadapati when they studied in Siddhartha Engineering College, Vijayawada. Of course, Lagadapati was one year junior to him in college. Ramu was basically a helpful person by nature and helped Lagadapati in college rivalries. Perhaps Ramu might have also helped Lagadapati this time also.
The incident provides entertainment for movie buffs who like to enjoy Lagadapati’s actions. It also serves as a trigger for weaving a story for making a film.
Lagadapati Rajagopal is the Member of Parliament from Vijayawada constituency of Andhra Pradesh (India) with political ambitions. He wants to fill the political vacuum created due to the death of Y.S.Rajasekhara Reddy by fighting the cause of united Andhra Pradesh.
It is very strange to note the way he gave slip both in Vijayawada and NIMS, Hyderabad.
Probably K. Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) must be thinking for not acting so well like Lagadapati when he fasted unto death recently. It must be because KCR does not have a good friend like Ram Gopal Varma to enact better.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
"Do You Have Internal Locus of Control?" - Prof.M.S.Rao
Tim was laid off from research department due to recession. Most of the employees were panicked with the news of sudden lay off. Until then, a few individuals were boasting off within the research department by claiming that they had better career opportunities elsewhere. Suddenly these faces turned sorrow due to the closure. These individuals were planning to ask for a raise from the employer and they were blaming the research department for not paying handsome salaries.
Now the same people were on the run for employment as they could not digest the news. They requested the employer for outplacement in their affiliate institutions. The tone and tenor of these people subdued and there was no charm and overconfidence. These people began blaming the fate. Finally the organization was kind enough to accommodate few of them in affiliate institutions. However, Tim was cool and composed as he believed in his abilities and capabilities. He took it in his stride smilingly as he was a workaholic and who always believed in turning around the tide because he had high internal locus of control. He rose from ranks by the dint of hard work.
He applied for couple of jobs outside, short listed and joined in a better position than what he was in the research department. He never cursed his fate. In contrast, he pulled all the strings mentally and then physically and had his own way. How many people would be like Tim who could control the external forces and factors without blaming destiny?
The place where he worked went for downsizing and he was laid off again. However, he was unperturbed as he had undergone such trials and tribulations since childhood. This time, he changed his strategy and decided not to work in any organization but start freelancing in his passionate areas of teaching and training. Ultimately Tim donned the hat of a consultant because of his rich experience and expertise and began successful innings as an entrepreneur. What do you call the attitude of Tim? Was it his ability to turn around the external forces and factors to his convenient or inability to succumb to external pulls and pressures thus blaming destiny? Succinctly, Tim converted recession as an opportunity. He displayed high internal locus of control and reinvented himself.
Individuals with high internal locus of control know how to convert their weaknesses into strengths as they are pretty good at converting their external threats into opportunities. In this world, there are two categories of individuals – the individuals with internal locus of control and the individuals with external locus of control. Individuals are said to be having internal locus of control when they believe that their actions are guided by internal forces and factors. In contrast, individuals are said to be having external locus of control when they believe that their actions are guided by external forces and factors. It all depends on the individual’s mindset.
Individuals in their teenage dream and fantasize a lot and think of controlling the destiny. The same goes on as one ages up to some stage of life. However, as the individuals experience several encounters, the locus of control changes from internal to external as they think that external forces prevent them from reaching goals. As one gets older, the physical energy decreases as well. As a result, individuals become external gradually in locus of control. However, when we look at extraordinary individuals, we find them demonstrating internal locus of control throughout their lives as they strongly believe in themselves.
Individuals with internal locus of control rarely blame others for their failures. In contrast, individual with external locus of control often pin the blame on others for all their problems. When we look at leaders we find their ability to turn the tides in their favor and reaching their goals at any cost. High internal locus of control is one of the ingredients of effective leaders. To possess internal locus of control, follow the below nuggets:
• Convert your internal monologue to positive if it happens to be negative.
• Have firm faith in yourself. Never surrender yourself to fate.
• Be confident and optimistic that every dog has its day.
• Be cool, calm and composed during crisis.
• Consult others when you face uncertainty and complexity.
• Set SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time) goals.
• Never give in, never give up.
Everything is possible in this world when you have a strong dream with high internal locus of control. Never blame destiny. Rather bend and blend to your end.
The End
Now the same people were on the run for employment as they could not digest the news. They requested the employer for outplacement in their affiliate institutions. The tone and tenor of these people subdued and there was no charm and overconfidence. These people began blaming the fate. Finally the organization was kind enough to accommodate few of them in affiliate institutions. However, Tim was cool and composed as he believed in his abilities and capabilities. He took it in his stride smilingly as he was a workaholic and who always believed in turning around the tide because he had high internal locus of control. He rose from ranks by the dint of hard work.
He applied for couple of jobs outside, short listed and joined in a better position than what he was in the research department. He never cursed his fate. In contrast, he pulled all the strings mentally and then physically and had his own way. How many people would be like Tim who could control the external forces and factors without blaming destiny?
The place where he worked went for downsizing and he was laid off again. However, he was unperturbed as he had undergone such trials and tribulations since childhood. This time, he changed his strategy and decided not to work in any organization but start freelancing in his passionate areas of teaching and training. Ultimately Tim donned the hat of a consultant because of his rich experience and expertise and began successful innings as an entrepreneur. What do you call the attitude of Tim? Was it his ability to turn around the external forces and factors to his convenient or inability to succumb to external pulls and pressures thus blaming destiny? Succinctly, Tim converted recession as an opportunity. He displayed high internal locus of control and reinvented himself.
Individuals with high internal locus of control know how to convert their weaknesses into strengths as they are pretty good at converting their external threats into opportunities. In this world, there are two categories of individuals – the individuals with internal locus of control and the individuals with external locus of control. Individuals are said to be having internal locus of control when they believe that their actions are guided by internal forces and factors. In contrast, individuals are said to be having external locus of control when they believe that their actions are guided by external forces and factors. It all depends on the individual’s mindset.
Individuals in their teenage dream and fantasize a lot and think of controlling the destiny. The same goes on as one ages up to some stage of life. However, as the individuals experience several encounters, the locus of control changes from internal to external as they think that external forces prevent them from reaching goals. As one gets older, the physical energy decreases as well. As a result, individuals become external gradually in locus of control. However, when we look at extraordinary individuals, we find them demonstrating internal locus of control throughout their lives as they strongly believe in themselves.
Individuals with internal locus of control rarely blame others for their failures. In contrast, individual with external locus of control often pin the blame on others for all their problems. When we look at leaders we find their ability to turn the tides in their favor and reaching their goals at any cost. High internal locus of control is one of the ingredients of effective leaders. To possess internal locus of control, follow the below nuggets:
• Convert your internal monologue to positive if it happens to be negative.
• Have firm faith in yourself. Never surrender yourself to fate.
• Be confident and optimistic that every dog has its day.
• Be cool, calm and composed during crisis.
• Consult others when you face uncertainty and complexity.
• Set SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time) goals.
• Never give in, never give up.
Everything is possible in this world when you have a strong dream with high internal locus of control. Never blame destiny. Rather bend and blend to your end.
The End
Hidden Data of Communication - Prof.M.S.Rao
“Who told you to hand over the resumes to Jim?” shouted Susan. Ron replied, “You told me when I asked”. Susan was infuriated and said, “I did not tell you to hand over to Jim but to John”. Ron responded, “You told me to hand over the resumes to HR manager and Jim is the HR manager and, therefore, I handed over to him. Why do you shout at me now? Is it a big issue worth shouting?” Susan shouted, “Stop talking all that you don’t know how to behave with others. Your behaviour is very bad.” Ron didn’t want to hurt Susan and coolly said, “Tell me, in which way my behaviour is bad so that I can correct myself.”
That was the heated conversation between Susan and Ron who were working in an organization where Ron and Susan work together. Ron did not know that Jim and Susan does not gel each other as they don’t enjoy amicable relations. Besides, there was communication gap between Susan and Ron in the office.
One of the reasons for failed communication is that people develop filters where the listener takes only what is required thereby discarding the vital information in communication given by the speaker.
Second reason is that information is not communication as any communication should have an element of feedback. No communication is effective and complete until the given instructions are confirmed. Susan failed to take feedback to her instructions. She should have asked, “Ron, I hope you understood the information”.
Thirdly, there is difference between assuming and presuming during communication. Susan assumed that Ron would hand over resumes to John whereas Ron presumed that the resumes were to be handed over to HR manager, Jim.
Fourthly, in every organization we find some people not getting on well with others due to personal preferences and tastes and temperaments. However, it is essential to keep personal preferences away from professional duties. Otherwise, the communication in organization would break down.
Above all, Susan has the attitude of ‘I am the boss’ which created attitude of ‘So what’ in Ron. Susan and Ron also don’t gel with each other as it was rumored that she troubled several colleagues whenever they had to work on projects in the organization. Ron too would have worked with Susan in a project and subsequently Ron withdrew and replaced Susan with another person with whom he was comfortable to work with. Susan also heard in the office that Ron was a difficult person to handle as he was adamant by nature. All these things led to heated conversation between Susan and Ron. In fact, something bugged Susan and she exploited the situation to tame Ron but failed.
There is hidden data in communication such as feelings, emotions and egos which needs to be observed in the given context. One needs intelligence to read the feelings and emotions of individuals which will affect the communication process. Therefore, next time when you come across with any conflict at workplace look for hidden data of communication to read between the lines and avert conflicts.
The End
That was the heated conversation between Susan and Ron who were working in an organization where Ron and Susan work together. Ron did not know that Jim and Susan does not gel each other as they don’t enjoy amicable relations. Besides, there was communication gap between Susan and Ron in the office.
One of the reasons for failed communication is that people develop filters where the listener takes only what is required thereby discarding the vital information in communication given by the speaker.
Second reason is that information is not communication as any communication should have an element of feedback. No communication is effective and complete until the given instructions are confirmed. Susan failed to take feedback to her instructions. She should have asked, “Ron, I hope you understood the information”.
Thirdly, there is difference between assuming and presuming during communication. Susan assumed that Ron would hand over resumes to John whereas Ron presumed that the resumes were to be handed over to HR manager, Jim.
Fourthly, in every organization we find some people not getting on well with others due to personal preferences and tastes and temperaments. However, it is essential to keep personal preferences away from professional duties. Otherwise, the communication in organization would break down.
Above all, Susan has the attitude of ‘I am the boss’ which created attitude of ‘So what’ in Ron. Susan and Ron also don’t gel with each other as it was rumored that she troubled several colleagues whenever they had to work on projects in the organization. Ron too would have worked with Susan in a project and subsequently Ron withdrew and replaced Susan with another person with whom he was comfortable to work with. Susan also heard in the office that Ron was a difficult person to handle as he was adamant by nature. All these things led to heated conversation between Susan and Ron. In fact, something bugged Susan and she exploited the situation to tame Ron but failed.
There is hidden data in communication such as feelings, emotions and egos which needs to be observed in the given context. One needs intelligence to read the feelings and emotions of individuals which will affect the communication process. Therefore, next time when you come across with any conflict at workplace look for hidden data of communication to read between the lines and avert conflicts.
The End
Avoiding Presentation Mistakes - Prof.M.S.Rao
When Stephen was invited to deliver Pre-dinner talk for bank officers in a staff training college he was excited to deliver presentation. Stephen was given an opportunity to choose the topic and he instantly chose ‘leadership development’ as he was passionate and confident on this topic. He was a reputed teacher and trainer in the area of leadership development. Stephen was comfortable with the topic. However he prepared the content related to banking also as the leadership development was meant for the senior executives in the banking sector.
When the D-day came in Stephen broke the ice and began the presentation. The response was not extra-ordinary. The mood of the audience was not upbeat as expected. Since Stephen believed in taking the feedback, he sought feedback from the training coordinator about the presentation.
The training coordinator was tactful in giving feedback. Over the discussion it revealed that Stephen delivered presentation the way he delivered for students. Usually when students are taught in academic institutions, there is need for emphasizing on concepts followed by case studies, examples and interaction. In teaching it is more of preaching and sharing knowledge. However, when it comes to training senior executives what is needed is to share experiences rather than giving theoretical concepts. Training also involves converting existing knowledge into skills as the bank executives have already possessed the knowledge of the topic. Stephen failed to differentiate between teaching and training and failed to analyze the audience needs effectively. It resulted into an average performance.
The second mistake was that Stephen added too many slides during presentation with lot of research findings and quotations and most of the time was spent in slide show and the audience lost the touch with the speaker and interest as the interaction was less and information was more. It was a kind of information load to the audience. Teachers have the attitude to share lot of information, ideas and knowledge while the trainers have the art of delivering through visuals, interaction, with anecdotes, examples, storytelling and humor. Stephen delivered presentation like a preacher and teacher not like a trainer who activates and energizes the audience so as to make the presentation effective.
The third mistake was the timing of the presentation. During pre-dinner talk the executives have already been exhausted with other activities as it was evening time. Stephen failed to add humor in his presentation and failed to quickly connect with audience. Had the presentation been during morning time the audience would have been charged up easily to listen to several theoretical inputs as they start the day fresh. However in pre-dinner talk, the audience was already engrossed with activities till evening. And charging up the audience and during the post lunch and evening is indeed a Herculean task.
The fourth mistake he made was to deliver continuously without giving any pauses and gauging the body language of the audience. No doubt, Stephen had tremendous knowledge but he should have allowed audience during his presentation with pauses. Pause will help the audience to understand, appreciate and applaud the speaker. His presentation was like a running commentary without any let-up.
During presentation it is essential to gauge the body language of the audience and change the strategy accordingly. For instance, when the audience feels bored with content, it is time to switch over the content to couple of examples and anecdotes. Else it is advisable to make them participate by shooting them with questions, “How many of you agree with this information?” Posing questions will make the audience alert and get into the presentation process effectively. Interaction is the key to effective presentation, when the audience happens to be small.
Therefore whenever you are invited to deliver your presentation, find out the timing, share your experiences by adding humor if it happened to be post lunch and evening. Assess the body language and change your strategies accordingly. Above all, you need to differentiate between teaching and training. Good luck.
The End
When the D-day came in Stephen broke the ice and began the presentation. The response was not extra-ordinary. The mood of the audience was not upbeat as expected. Since Stephen believed in taking the feedback, he sought feedback from the training coordinator about the presentation.
The training coordinator was tactful in giving feedback. Over the discussion it revealed that Stephen delivered presentation the way he delivered for students. Usually when students are taught in academic institutions, there is need for emphasizing on concepts followed by case studies, examples and interaction. In teaching it is more of preaching and sharing knowledge. However, when it comes to training senior executives what is needed is to share experiences rather than giving theoretical concepts. Training also involves converting existing knowledge into skills as the bank executives have already possessed the knowledge of the topic. Stephen failed to differentiate between teaching and training and failed to analyze the audience needs effectively. It resulted into an average performance.
The second mistake was that Stephen added too many slides during presentation with lot of research findings and quotations and most of the time was spent in slide show and the audience lost the touch with the speaker and interest as the interaction was less and information was more. It was a kind of information load to the audience. Teachers have the attitude to share lot of information, ideas and knowledge while the trainers have the art of delivering through visuals, interaction, with anecdotes, examples, storytelling and humor. Stephen delivered presentation like a preacher and teacher not like a trainer who activates and energizes the audience so as to make the presentation effective.
The third mistake was the timing of the presentation. During pre-dinner talk the executives have already been exhausted with other activities as it was evening time. Stephen failed to add humor in his presentation and failed to quickly connect with audience. Had the presentation been during morning time the audience would have been charged up easily to listen to several theoretical inputs as they start the day fresh. However in pre-dinner talk, the audience was already engrossed with activities till evening. And charging up the audience and during the post lunch and evening is indeed a Herculean task.
The fourth mistake he made was to deliver continuously without giving any pauses and gauging the body language of the audience. No doubt, Stephen had tremendous knowledge but he should have allowed audience during his presentation with pauses. Pause will help the audience to understand, appreciate and applaud the speaker. His presentation was like a running commentary without any let-up.
During presentation it is essential to gauge the body language of the audience and change the strategy accordingly. For instance, when the audience feels bored with content, it is time to switch over the content to couple of examples and anecdotes. Else it is advisable to make them participate by shooting them with questions, “How many of you agree with this information?” Posing questions will make the audience alert and get into the presentation process effectively. Interaction is the key to effective presentation, when the audience happens to be small.
Therefore whenever you are invited to deliver your presentation, find out the timing, share your experiences by adding humor if it happened to be post lunch and evening. Assess the body language and change your strategies accordingly. Above all, you need to differentiate between teaching and training. Good luck.
The End
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Benjamin Franklin's Greatest Soft Skills
“If you would not be forgotten as soon as you are dead, either write something worth reading or do things worth writing.” - Benjamin Franklin
Usually we find leaders like Alexander the Great and Abraham Lincoln doing extraordinary things but not writing enough intellectual material during their lifetime. We also find philosophers like Socrates and Plato not doing extraordinary things but writing lot of intellectual material leaving for the mankind to think and practice. However, Benjamin Franklin (Ben) was one of the few exceptional leaders in the world who was not only a writer leaving lot of intellectual contributions to the mankind but also did extraordinary things in various capacities in his lifetime providing lot of space for others to write about him. Ben was blend of both words and deeds.
Ben’s character has been built on the virtues and values crafted by him. He followed all these throughout his life. The list of these skills can be called as soft skills in the contemporary context. These skills can also be called as employability skills as every employer looks for these virtues and values.
Every recruiter looks for certain values, virtues, skills and abilities in potential recruits. The expectations and requirements of the employers are rising with the rapid growth in technology. Although technology is a boon to mankind it has become a bane as well due to the rising complexities and uncertainties in the world. The organizations are constantly innovating and evolving themselves in order to stay ahead of others. It is possible only through right selection of people who have basic virtues and values apart from skills and abilities. In this context, it is essential to explain briefly about Benjamin Franklin’s biography.
Ben’s Brief Biography (1706-1790 AD):
“For having lived long, I have experienced many instances of being obliged, by better information or fuller consideration, to change opinions, even on important subjects, which I once thought right but found to be otherwise.” - Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin was born in Boston, Massachusetts on January 17, 1706. He was a multifaceted personality who had the uncanny ability to write as well as to achieve successfully. He was a soldier, writer, thinker, inventor, statesman and politician. He was one of the founding fathers of America. Ben was ambitious and intent on self-improvement right from his childhood. He learnt throughout his life. He invented stove, lightning rod and bifocal lens
Because of his multifaceted personality Franklin has been honored on coinage and currency. Many educational institutions, organizations and places have been named after him because of his outstanding contributions in various capacities. His photo appears on postal stamps as well is a tribute to this legendary leader. Franklin was awarded with honorary degrees in 1753 by both Harvard and Yale University. He was also awarded with honorary doctorate by Oxford University in 1762 for his scientific accomplishments.
Ben was fondly called as Dr. Franklin. He was curious about the things around him. He published ‘Poor Richard’s Almanac’ under the pseudonym of Richard Saunders. His writings influenced many including Andrew Carnegie and Dale Carnegie. He was the brainchild behind self-improvement and personality development books. He was the first American to write autobiography. Ben died on 17 April 1790 leaving trail behind for the mankind.
Ben’s Soft Skills:
“Those disputing, contradicting, and confuting people are generally unfortunate in their affairs. They get victory, sometimes, but they never get good will, which would be of more use to them.” - Benjamin Franklin
He had passion for learning and growing. He rightly quoted, “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” He always championed to open up minds and be receptive to new ideas. The same can be observed from his quote, “Being ignorant is not so much a shame, as being unwilling to learn.” He inculcated right attitude, personality and behavior through continuous learning. He was almost self-educated without formal education.
He was a good listener as it was evidenced by his quote, “Not a tenth part of the wisdom was my own and more is to be learned with the ear than the tongue.” Listening is one of the traits of effective leaders. With his negotiation skills, he persuaded the French to support American Revolution. He successfully demonstrated his diplomatic skills.
Ben never believed in wasting precious time. He was a very good time manager. Else he would not have achieved all these things within his lifetime. Ben’s slogan was “Time is money.”
He was a risk taker with entrepreneurial bent of mind. He was a net worker and motivator who emphasized on self-improvement. He was an excellent communicator. He built successful teams and led from the front whether he set up franchise system of printing shops or in politics. He was a skillful negotiator and diplomat. All these skills of learning, listening, time management, team building, leadership, listening, negotiation and communication skills fall in the category of soft skills. These skills are much sought after by the employers currently. Therefore, these can be called as employability skills.
Ben listed 12 virtues to follow and declared them to his friends proudly. One of his friends a Quaker criticized him for not having included humility which was essential for everyone and especially more for Ben as he was always boastful. Subsequently Ben included humility as the thirteenth virtue in the list thereby making thirteenth virtue. These 13 virtues of Ben can be called as soft skills and also as employability as the potential recruiters are looking for these values.
Ben stands for success. At 17 he was penniless and at 42 he was wealthy. It could happen because of his 13 virtues. Let us look at the thirteen principles listed in his autobiography which are worth following for becoming all-rounded personality. Follow these skills regularly with each skill for a week continuously to integrate and ingrain within your personality. These virtues build right attitude and personality thus bringing out behavioral changes for your personal and professional success:
1. Temperance: Eat not dullness; drink not to elevation.
2. Silence: Speak not but what may benefit others or yourself, avoid trifling conversation.
3. Order: Let all your things have their places; let each part of your business have it's time.
4. Resolution: Resolve to perform what you ought; perform without fail what you resolve.
5. Frugality: Make no expense but to do good to others or yourself; waste nothing.
6. Industry: Lose no time; be always employed in something useful; cut off all unnecessary actions.
7. Sincerity: Use no harmful deceit; think innocently and justly; and if you speak, speak accordingly.
8. Justice: wrong none by doing injuries or omitting the benefits that are your duty.
9. Moderation: Avoid extremes; forebear resenting injuries so much as you think they deserve.
10. Cleanliness: Tolerate no uncleanness in body, clothes or habitation.
11. Tranquility: Be not disturbed at trifles, nor at accidents.
12. Chastity: Be chaste in matters with the opposite sex.
13. Humility: Imitate Jesus and Socrates.
Interpretation of Each Virtue:
“It is a grand mistake to think of being great without goodness and I pronounce it as certain that there was never a truly great man that was not at the same time truly virtuous.” - Benjamin Franklin
Each virtue of Ben is substituted in the present context as:
1. Temperance: Eat and drink within the healthy limits.
2. Silence: Always talk meaningful and avoid gossips.
3. Order: Organize yourself properly.
4. Resolution: Set your goals firmly and proceed with energy and enthusiasm.
5. Frugality: Don’t waste anything unnecessarily.
6. Industry: Don’t waste your precious time. Always employ and engage yourself productively.
7. Sincerity: Have integrity and honesty.
8. Justice: Always be fair and just.
9. Moderation: Lead balanced life but not with eccentricity.
10. Cleanliness: Always be clean physically and present yourself professionally.
11. Tranquility: Don’t bother for external disturbances arising out of external forces and factors beyond your control.
12. Chastity: Maintain purity. Good character.
13. Humility: Be simple, humble and assertive
Conclusion:
“It takes many good deeds to build a good reputation, and only one bad one to lose it.” - Benjamin Franklin
Ben was a legend in the history of America. He had fascination for innovation. He was respected initially because of his scientific inventions and accomplishments. Humility is the hallmark of Ben. Although he was immodest in his initial period of life, he reinvented himself and became simple and humble.
Ben was an altruist. His virtues and values depict the present day soft skills and employability skills. These are essential forever as long as the human civilization survives. Ben walked the talk throughout his life. He was a trailblazer. Several American leaders follow the ideals and ideas and the virtues and values of Benjamin Franklin. It is time we cherish his ideals and ideas and follow his virtues and values for global peace and prosperity.
Usually we find leaders like Alexander the Great and Abraham Lincoln doing extraordinary things but not writing enough intellectual material during their lifetime. We also find philosophers like Socrates and Plato not doing extraordinary things but writing lot of intellectual material leaving for the mankind to think and practice. However, Benjamin Franklin (Ben) was one of the few exceptional leaders in the world who was not only a writer leaving lot of intellectual contributions to the mankind but also did extraordinary things in various capacities in his lifetime providing lot of space for others to write about him. Ben was blend of both words and deeds.
Ben’s character has been built on the virtues and values crafted by him. He followed all these throughout his life. The list of these skills can be called as soft skills in the contemporary context. These skills can also be called as employability skills as every employer looks for these virtues and values.
Every recruiter looks for certain values, virtues, skills and abilities in potential recruits. The expectations and requirements of the employers are rising with the rapid growth in technology. Although technology is a boon to mankind it has become a bane as well due to the rising complexities and uncertainties in the world. The organizations are constantly innovating and evolving themselves in order to stay ahead of others. It is possible only through right selection of people who have basic virtues and values apart from skills and abilities. In this context, it is essential to explain briefly about Benjamin Franklin’s biography.
Ben’s Brief Biography (1706-1790 AD):
“For having lived long, I have experienced many instances of being obliged, by better information or fuller consideration, to change opinions, even on important subjects, which I once thought right but found to be otherwise.” - Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin was born in Boston, Massachusetts on January 17, 1706. He was a multifaceted personality who had the uncanny ability to write as well as to achieve successfully. He was a soldier, writer, thinker, inventor, statesman and politician. He was one of the founding fathers of America. Ben was ambitious and intent on self-improvement right from his childhood. He learnt throughout his life. He invented stove, lightning rod and bifocal lens
Because of his multifaceted personality Franklin has been honored on coinage and currency. Many educational institutions, organizations and places have been named after him because of his outstanding contributions in various capacities. His photo appears on postal stamps as well is a tribute to this legendary leader. Franklin was awarded with honorary degrees in 1753 by both Harvard and Yale University. He was also awarded with honorary doctorate by Oxford University in 1762 for his scientific accomplishments.
Ben was fondly called as Dr. Franklin. He was curious about the things around him. He published ‘Poor Richard’s Almanac’ under the pseudonym of Richard Saunders. His writings influenced many including Andrew Carnegie and Dale Carnegie. He was the brainchild behind self-improvement and personality development books. He was the first American to write autobiography. Ben died on 17 April 1790 leaving trail behind for the mankind.
Ben’s Soft Skills:
“Those disputing, contradicting, and confuting people are generally unfortunate in their affairs. They get victory, sometimes, but they never get good will, which would be of more use to them.” - Benjamin Franklin
He had passion for learning and growing. He rightly quoted, “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” He always championed to open up minds and be receptive to new ideas. The same can be observed from his quote, “Being ignorant is not so much a shame, as being unwilling to learn.” He inculcated right attitude, personality and behavior through continuous learning. He was almost self-educated without formal education.
He was a good listener as it was evidenced by his quote, “Not a tenth part of the wisdom was my own and more is to be learned with the ear than the tongue.” Listening is one of the traits of effective leaders. With his negotiation skills, he persuaded the French to support American Revolution. He successfully demonstrated his diplomatic skills.
Ben never believed in wasting precious time. He was a very good time manager. Else he would not have achieved all these things within his lifetime. Ben’s slogan was “Time is money.”
He was a risk taker with entrepreneurial bent of mind. He was a net worker and motivator who emphasized on self-improvement. He was an excellent communicator. He built successful teams and led from the front whether he set up franchise system of printing shops or in politics. He was a skillful negotiator and diplomat. All these skills of learning, listening, time management, team building, leadership, listening, negotiation and communication skills fall in the category of soft skills. These skills are much sought after by the employers currently. Therefore, these can be called as employability skills.
Ben listed 12 virtues to follow and declared them to his friends proudly. One of his friends a Quaker criticized him for not having included humility which was essential for everyone and especially more for Ben as he was always boastful. Subsequently Ben included humility as the thirteenth virtue in the list thereby making thirteenth virtue. These 13 virtues of Ben can be called as soft skills and also as employability as the potential recruiters are looking for these values.
Ben stands for success. At 17 he was penniless and at 42 he was wealthy. It could happen because of his 13 virtues. Let us look at the thirteen principles listed in his autobiography which are worth following for becoming all-rounded personality. Follow these skills regularly with each skill for a week continuously to integrate and ingrain within your personality. These virtues build right attitude and personality thus bringing out behavioral changes for your personal and professional success:
1. Temperance: Eat not dullness; drink not to elevation.
2. Silence: Speak not but what may benefit others or yourself, avoid trifling conversation.
3. Order: Let all your things have their places; let each part of your business have it's time.
4. Resolution: Resolve to perform what you ought; perform without fail what you resolve.
5. Frugality: Make no expense but to do good to others or yourself; waste nothing.
6. Industry: Lose no time; be always employed in something useful; cut off all unnecessary actions.
7. Sincerity: Use no harmful deceit; think innocently and justly; and if you speak, speak accordingly.
8. Justice: wrong none by doing injuries or omitting the benefits that are your duty.
9. Moderation: Avoid extremes; forebear resenting injuries so much as you think they deserve.
10. Cleanliness: Tolerate no uncleanness in body, clothes or habitation.
11. Tranquility: Be not disturbed at trifles, nor at accidents.
12. Chastity: Be chaste in matters with the opposite sex.
13. Humility: Imitate Jesus and Socrates.
Interpretation of Each Virtue:
“It is a grand mistake to think of being great without goodness and I pronounce it as certain that there was never a truly great man that was not at the same time truly virtuous.” - Benjamin Franklin
Each virtue of Ben is substituted in the present context as:
1. Temperance: Eat and drink within the healthy limits.
2. Silence: Always talk meaningful and avoid gossips.
3. Order: Organize yourself properly.
4. Resolution: Set your goals firmly and proceed with energy and enthusiasm.
5. Frugality: Don’t waste anything unnecessarily.
6. Industry: Don’t waste your precious time. Always employ and engage yourself productively.
7. Sincerity: Have integrity and honesty.
8. Justice: Always be fair and just.
9. Moderation: Lead balanced life but not with eccentricity.
10. Cleanliness: Always be clean physically and present yourself professionally.
11. Tranquility: Don’t bother for external disturbances arising out of external forces and factors beyond your control.
12. Chastity: Maintain purity. Good character.
13. Humility: Be simple, humble and assertive
Conclusion:
“It takes many good deeds to build a good reputation, and only one bad one to lose it.” - Benjamin Franklin
Ben was a legend in the history of America. He had fascination for innovation. He was respected initially because of his scientific inventions and accomplishments. Humility is the hallmark of Ben. Although he was immodest in his initial period of life, he reinvented himself and became simple and humble.
Ben was an altruist. His virtues and values depict the present day soft skills and employability skills. These are essential forever as long as the human civilization survives. Ben walked the talk throughout his life. He was a trailblazer. Several American leaders follow the ideals and ideas and the virtues and values of Benjamin Franklin. It is time we cherish his ideals and ideas and follow his virtues and values for global peace and prosperity.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Training the Leadership Talent - Prof.M.S.Rao
“A business short on capital can borrow money. But a business short of leadership has little chance of survival.” - Peter Drucker
Currently some companies are struggling for their survival due to recession. It indicates that there is dearth of leadership talent across the world and urgent need for honing the same. Warren G. Bennis rightly put, “Failing organizations are usually over-managed and under-led.” Both the failing and struggling organizations need to realize that it is more of leadership rather than managerial challenge.
Recession has thrown several challenges across the world. But when viewed positively, recession offers more opportunities than threats. With an intention to cut the costs the organizations are in a hurry to axe on training and development. It is indeed a retrograde step.
In fact, it is the right time for companies to concentrate on training and development as during peak times they are all busy with booming economic activities. Now it is the time to cool off from overheated work activities.
Engage the employees actively in learning and development as it prepares the ground for booming period. It is like grooming the employees ready for a bullish period. If the budget is not adequate, engage the senior managers and leaders from within the organization in taking up the training programs for their employees so that they get in close touch with their employees in the name of training programs. They get to know the practical problems faced by the employees at the lower level as well. It engages the senior staff actively and briskly for institutional building and organizational development rather than being concerned about recession. The employees too appreciate the good gesture of their employers for widening their mental horizons as well as for not firing them during downturn. Since employers handhold their employees during downturn, the employees will extend their hands to their employers during upturn. It promotes long term bonding between employers and employees leading to better productivity and performance and employee loyalty.
If organizations feel that it is inevitable for budget cuts, they can cut down expenses arising out of hiring external facilitators and trainers and bank on existing in-house experts in building strong leadership potential.
During downturn the organizations should upgrade the talent by engaging employees constructively and creatively. Instead of fighting against their employees they should take the support of their employees and fight against recession. They should explore other areas and avenues of cost cutting.
The secret behind the success of several global companies is their continuous investment in the learning and development. These companies focus more in innovation and creativity during downturns and reap rewards during subsequent upturns.
We encourage unemployed individuals going for higher studies and courses during downturns. Similarly organizations should encourage their existing employees to prepare ground for organizational growth and prosperity as it is the right opportunity. Instead of treating training as an expense the companies should treat training as an investment and hone the skills of their employees.
The End
Currently some companies are struggling for their survival due to recession. It indicates that there is dearth of leadership talent across the world and urgent need for honing the same. Warren G. Bennis rightly put, “Failing organizations are usually over-managed and under-led.” Both the failing and struggling organizations need to realize that it is more of leadership rather than managerial challenge.
Recession has thrown several challenges across the world. But when viewed positively, recession offers more opportunities than threats. With an intention to cut the costs the organizations are in a hurry to axe on training and development. It is indeed a retrograde step.
In fact, it is the right time for companies to concentrate on training and development as during peak times they are all busy with booming economic activities. Now it is the time to cool off from overheated work activities.
Engage the employees actively in learning and development as it prepares the ground for booming period. It is like grooming the employees ready for a bullish period. If the budget is not adequate, engage the senior managers and leaders from within the organization in taking up the training programs for their employees so that they get in close touch with their employees in the name of training programs. They get to know the practical problems faced by the employees at the lower level as well. It engages the senior staff actively and briskly for institutional building and organizational development rather than being concerned about recession. The employees too appreciate the good gesture of their employers for widening their mental horizons as well as for not firing them during downturn. Since employers handhold their employees during downturn, the employees will extend their hands to their employers during upturn. It promotes long term bonding between employers and employees leading to better productivity and performance and employee loyalty.
If organizations feel that it is inevitable for budget cuts, they can cut down expenses arising out of hiring external facilitators and trainers and bank on existing in-house experts in building strong leadership potential.
During downturn the organizations should upgrade the talent by engaging employees constructively and creatively. Instead of fighting against their employees they should take the support of their employees and fight against recession. They should explore other areas and avenues of cost cutting.
The secret behind the success of several global companies is their continuous investment in the learning and development. These companies focus more in innovation and creativity during downturns and reap rewards during subsequent upturns.
We encourage unemployed individuals going for higher studies and courses during downturns. Similarly organizations should encourage their existing employees to prepare ground for organizational growth and prosperity as it is the right opportunity. Instead of treating training as an expense the companies should treat training as an investment and hone the skills of their employees.
The End
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