Q1. Describe yourself in three sentences.
I am a lifelong learner, constantly seeking new knowledge and experiences to grow and develop. A results-driven and analytical individual, able to make data-informed decisions and execute them effectively. As a huge sports enthusiast, I firmly believe that individual talent honed with teamwork is a prime constituent for aspirations.
Q2. What is the one subject you think aspiring leaders should learn?
I believe it is the ability to adapt to change. It is crucial for a leader to navigate the constantly evolving business landscape, to be able to pivot when needed and identify new opportunities. A leader who can lead and manage change effectively will be able to steer their team and organization through difficult situations and come out stronger on the other side. Another key trait that aspiring leaders should acquire is emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage one’s own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. A leader with high emotional intelligence can create a positive and productive work environment, build strong relationships, and handle conflicts effectively.
Q3. One thing you believe is essential for sustained growth.
One thing that is essential for the sustained growth of any business is a culture of continuous learning and improvement. This means fostering an environment where employees are encouraged to take risks, experiment, and learn from their mistakes. It also means providing opportunities for professional development and offering feedback that is both constructive and actionable. The leadership of the organization should be open to making changes to succeed in rapidly evolving business environments. This culture of continuous learning and improvement allows organizations to stay competitive, effect change positively, and ultimately achieve sustained growth.
Q4. One book that you love and the one you’ve bookmarked?
I love reading biographies as they give me very real and distinct narratives of individual journeys, I feel this impacts me as a reader differently. One of my personal favourites is ‘Never Give Up’ by Bear Grylls. Moreover, having had the opportunity to meet him at one of AMD’s global events, his impact has multiplied! For the future, I have bookmarked a detailed read on the Upanishads and Vedic Literature as this is something I have been wanting to do for a long time.
Q5. Leadership quotes that inspire you
Though there are many quotes that have left lasting impressions, the one I relate to the most is a famous quote by Mark Twain. “It’s not the size of the dog in the fight, it’s the size of the fight in the dog”. Another philosophy and belief that I strive to implement is based on a very matter-of-fact and profound quote by Ralph Emerson. “Life is a journey and not a destination: so make the most of it while you are on it!”
Q6. What is your unique way of maintaining a work-life balance?
As the Managing Director of Sales in India for one of the world’s largest semiconductor companies, I get this question often, especially in the advent of the pandemic. It’s important to remember that work-life balance looks different for everyone and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s a continuous effort to find the balance that works for you. My own way of maintaining a work-life balance is by setting clear boundaries and priorities. I also prioritize self-care through activities like meditation, exercise and spending time with loved ones. Having specific goals and targets for both your professional and personal life, and regularly reviewing and adjusting them as needed helps immensely.
Q7. Significant learning in the past couple of years?
The pandemic has fundamentally changed the way I think. I have realised it is very important to focus on yourself, be mindful and live in the moment. As you wade through stressful and uncertain situations, ensuring your own mental and emotional well-being, and prioritizing self-care are key.
Q8. Some productivity apps and technologies you use in your daily life.
The efficiency of smartphones and laptops has never been more critical to the way we work, and we have some truly amazing devices available in the market. I also use a variety of productivity apps and technologies on a daily basis. I’d say Outlook, Gmail, Zoom, MS Teams and Google Docs are apps I rely on while on the go.
Q9. What is your technology detox?
I do feel strongly that this is most required as it does help in recharge and reset. As a habit, I try to take short breaks from work by going on 3-4 day long staycations with family and friends – often to reserves/ hills where the mobile signal itself is elusive (though it is getting stronger with passing time). It helps me and my family to stay closer to nature and get in bouts of fresh air.
Q10. If money was not a bar, what piece of tech and automobile would you own?
In the current era where we see evolution in tech and automobile going hand-in-hand, I aspire to own an Electric SUV as soon as the infrastructure and technology have been cemented across in the country. It’s a perfect blend of the latest technology advancements and automobiles.