Effective Leadership & Business Mindset - Most crucial competencies of a Great Manager

In this edition of the 'CHRO Insights' we have Mr. Amit Das , Director - Human Resources & CHRO at Bennett Coleman and Co. Ltd. (The Times of India)In this post, he shares his experiences and learnings as a leader.

• How would you describe your leadership style? What are some of the do’s and don’ts around you?

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At BCCL (The Times of India), we hold our values close to our hearts, and one of our core principles is being an employee-first organization. This principle deeply influences my leadership style.

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I would describe my leadership style as collaborative and inclusive. I firmly believe in fostering a culture of teamwork and open communication. BCCL (The Times of India)’s commitment to unity and respect aligns perfectly with this approach. I always make an effort to listen to my team members, value their input, and encourage diverse perspectives. This not only helps us make better decisions but also ensures that every team member feels heard and valued.

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In terms of the do's and don'ts around me, let's start with the positive aspects. Do's include promoting a culture of trust, transparency, and continuous learning. I believe that when employees are empowered with trust and information, they can perform at their best. Encouraging a growth mindset is essential as well, in line with BCCL (The Times of India)’s commitment to innovation.

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On the flip side, the don'ts involve avoiding a top-down, autocratic approach. I believe in shared leadership and collaboration, so I avoid making unilateral decisions without considering the input of my team. Additionally, I steer clear of micro-management, as it can stifle creativity and individual growth, which goes against our values of empowerment and employee development at BCCL (The Times of India).

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• What do you think is the biggest challenge when it comes to people management?

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Managing people effectively is indeed a critical aspect of any organization, and at BCCL (The Times of India), where we place our employees at the forefront, this challenge is approached with great care. In my experience, the biggest challenge in people management is striking the right balance between individual needs and organizational goals.

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At BCCL (The Times of India), we understand that our employees have unique aspirations, strengths, and challenges. Balancing these individual needs with the broader goals and objectives of the company can be challenging. However, it's essential for ensuring that our workforce remains engaged, motivated, and aligned with our mission.

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To address this challenge, I believe in open and empathetic communication. It's crucial to create an environment where employees feel comfortable expressing their needs and concerns. By actively listening and responding with empathy, we can find solutions that benefit both the individual and the organization.

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Furthermore, continuous learning and development play a significant role in overcoming this challenge. It includes providing opportunities for skill enhancement and career advancement. By investing in our employees' development, we not only help them achieve their goals but also strengthen the organization by having a skilled and motivated workforce.

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• What are the X factors that you want the organization to be developing in its future leaders?

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When it comes to developing future leaders, there are several X factors, or key qualities, that I believe the organization should prioritize. These qualities play a pivotal role in shaping leaders who can drive our company's success in a rapidly changing world:

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1.???? Adaptability and Resilience: In today's dynamic business landscape, adaptability is crucial. Future leaders should be able to embrace change, learn quickly, and bounce back from setbacks.

2.???? Empathy and Inclusivity: Future leaders should be compassionate, understanding, and capable of creating diverse and inclusive teams that celebrate differences.

3.???? Innovation and Problem-Solving: They should be unafraid to challenge the status quo, seek innovative solutions, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

4.???? Continuous Learning: Future leaders should be committed to their own growth and development, setting an example for their teams. BCCL (The Times of India)’s emphasis on employee development should extend to its leaders, fostering a culture of continuous learning.

5.???? Customer-Centricity: Future leaders should prioritize understanding and meeting the needs of our customers, driving customer-centric strategies that enhance satisfaction and loyalty.

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• What would you say is the most critical capability/competency of a Great Manager

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Effective leadership is the cornerstone of great management. It involves the ability to communicate clearly, understand and empathize with team members, make sound decisions, and solve complex problems. Great managers are mentors, providing guidance and opportunities for growth while deftly handling conflicts. They hold themselves and their teams accountable, adapt to changing circumstances, and inspire motivation. Their knack for building cohesive teams, upholding ethical standards, and thinking strategically sets the stage for a positive work environment and empowers employees for success.

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Business mindset is another critical capability that a great leader must possess. A person having a business mindset constantly strives to act as a leader, manages the company they work for, and actively works towards making their own organization a success. Business Mindset encourages people to act as entrepreneurs and create value and opportunities that benefit the organization, employees, and other stakeholders.

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• Who do you look up to for inspiration?

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I find inspiration from a diverse set of individuals who have made a positive impact in their respective fields. For instance, leaders like Nelson Mandela, with his unwavering commitment to justice and reconciliation, have always been a source of inspiration for their resilience and vision. Similarly, I admire innovative thinkers like Elon Musk, who continually push the boundaries of what's possible.

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However, it's not just high-profile figures who inspire me. I also draw inspiration from everyday heroes within the BCCL (The Times of India) family and beyond. The dedication and passion of our employees and the positive change they bring to our organization inspire me daily. It's in these collective efforts and stories of perseverance that I find the most profound inspiration.

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• If you could only ask somebody one?question?in an interview?and decide based on their answer whether to hire them, what would that?question?be??

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"Can you tell me about a time when you collaborated with a diverse team to achieve a challenging goal, and what was the outcome?"

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This question assesses a candidate's ability to work in a team, embrace diversity, tackle difficult tasks, and deliver results. It provides valuable insights into their interpersonal skills, problem-solving capabilities, and alignment with a collaborative and inclusive culture.

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• What is the advice you would give to the generation that is just joining the workforce?

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The advice I would offer to the generation just entering the workforce is to embrace a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability. The modern work environment is dynamic and constantly evolving, and being open to acquiring new skills and knowledge is essential for long-term success. Seek out opportunities for growth, whether through formal education, on-the-job training, or mentorship.

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Additionally, never underestimate the power of networking and building professional relationships. Connecting with colleagues, mentors, and peers can open doors to new opportunities and valuable insights.

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Furthermore, strive for a balance between work and life. Prioritize your well-being and mental health, and remember that a healthy work-life balance is crucial for sustained productivity and happiness.