What are the most powerful leadership techniques ?
Rajendra Somany (RS): The most powerful technique required by a leader is to have a vision in the area that he is a leader. The vision has to be shared with the entire organization in order to make them understand where the organization will be 5 years from now. There should be clarity for everyone so that they may set their goals and objectives. The leader should continuously monitor and motivate people for the successful implementation of his vision.
How to do keep up to date in this fast changing world?
(RS): Technology is changing fast. Not only fast but there are several revolutionary things that have changed the entire system. First there was the computer followed by wireless technology and now the solar power. Everyone has to tune themselves and adjust to the new technologies so that their organization does not lag.
What is the most important quality of a leader?
(RS): The most important quality of a leader is that he himself should be abreast of the right ways to lead the organization and prove that his method his way is the right one for the vision to be achieved. There will always be few people contradicting his way of handling things. There lies the skill of the leader to convince and motivate the people and to make the entire organization work for the common objective.
Can leadership be taught ?
(RS):-One can always teach and develop good leaders. If the power is delegated in a rational manner and the authority vested in the delegated person is not challenged and is accepted by all , it will create leaders One needs to create the right opportunities and give responsibility to people to help make them good leaders.
How important is team work in achieving success?
(RS): The crucial mantra for success is teamwork. Success depends on good team work and responsibility of failure falls on the leader. The team members have different skills and to blend everybody with different skills into one team is the leader’s job. Normally, routine work is done in about 2-3 hours everyday. A leader should spend the rest of the time on planning the team so that the organization remains ahead of competitors.
Your views on time management?
(RS): Time management is always the secret of success. Attending to all the items on your agenda within the time frame makes you successful.
How does one motivate others?
(RS): If a member of the organization is not successful it could be because of lack of motivation or it could be because of lack of skill or improper delegation or a blend of all three. If the leader can inspire a team member to fully utilize his skill, he will be able to successfully motivate him.
Your views on work-life balance ?
(RS): Work and life are two different segments. When you work, you should have a peaceful mind and dedication towards what you want to do. For that it’s very important to have peace within your family, friends, associates etc. This will allow you to have peace during work
People you admire?
(RS): I look up to and admire Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Patel, Narsimha Rao, and our PM Shri Narendra Modi.
Your advice to the next generation?
(RS): Formula for success will remain the same. Of-course, technology will differ. As we progress new technology will replace the old one and the new generation will have to adopt/adapt to new techniques. A huge change in communication system and advancing skills has brought the world very close. Therefore, the new leader will have to incorporate the skills of the new technology into the organization to achieve success.
