The One Thing That Separates True Professionals from the Rest

"Out of curiosity, how did you decide on Avantika for the book chat?"

The question came from someone I had invited for my first book event. After receiving the e-invite, he texted me, and I knew exactly what he meant.?

Throughout my career, I’ve worked with some of the best-known names in journalism—veteran anchors, celebrated interviewers, and media personalities who have made a name for themselves in the industry.

When it came time to choose someone for my book launch, Avantika Singh was the first name that popped into my head, although I have worked with Avantika for the shortest time—less than a year—and we have worked on only a couple of projects together.?

So why her?

The Quality That Makes All the Difference

At first, I didn’t have a clear answer myself. Was it because we had worked together recently that she was at the top of my mind? But as I reflected on it, the reason became clear: work ethic.

Avantika approached every task with meticulous dedication. She gave it the time and importance it deserved—no shortcuts, no half-measures.

Now, you might think, isn’t that just being professional? Isn’t that how everyone is supposed to work?

In theory, yes. But in reality? Not quite.

When Experience Becomes a Crutch

When people gain years of experience, something happens: Complacency creeps in. Many start believing that their past accomplishments alone can carry them forward. They rely on their reputation rather than preparation.

How often have we seen seasoned professionals skip rehearsals, walk into a room unprepared, or dismiss dry runs as unnecessary? Some arrive fashionably late, carrying an air of being there, done that. Others don’t even bother showing up.

They assume they can wing it. Sometimes, they do. But more often than not, it shows.

The Power of Putting in the Reps

Think of professional athletes. No matter how skilled they are, they never skip practice. They show up, train, drill, and prepare—because talent alone isn’t enough.

It’s the same with any field. The ones who consistently deliver excellence are the ones who never take preparation lightly.

That’s what set Avantika apart.

Who You Want in Your Corner

A fortnight after I approached her for the chosen task, Avantika told me she had read my book three times and spent her weekends making copious notes. She told me she hadn't conversed with authors at book launches yet and felt the pressure because she saw me as a perfectionist.

I smiled and told her to relax. "The idea is to have fun," I said.

But inside, I was deeply grateful.

She didn’t have to put in that much effort. She could have skimmed the book, shown up, and yet done a decent job. But she didn’t settle for “good enough.” She showed up prepared. She gave it her all.

And that’s precisely the kind of person I wanted next to me on such an important day.

When you collaborate with others—on a project, an event, a presentation—you expect everyone involved to be equally invested. But reality often disappoints. Some people show up fully. Some don’t.?

The best work, the best experiences, the best collaborations—they all come from shared commitment. The difference is staggering when every person involved cares about the outcome as much as you do.

Choose Well

When you have the choice, choose the people who take preparation seriously. Choose the ones who don’t just rely on experience but put in the work. Choose the ones who show up and are fully invested.

They’re the ones who elevate the experience for everyone. They’re the ones who make things better.

And if you get the chance, be that person for someone else.