SKILLING BEGINS AT SCHOOL
Today's business graduates will be tomorrow's
leaders. So what are the key competencies they need to build?
Globalisation has replaced the traditional business methods with
the modern ones, thus metamorphosing the way companies operate today .A sea
change has taken place in the way businesses are being conducted. This has in
turn has generated the requirement for global managers who are adept at a
specific set of skills and possess in-depth knowledge regarding cultural and
cross-cultural awareness, globalisation and its effects on companies. The
intensely-competitive global marketplace demands business graduates and managers
to rise above the conventional notions of management and develop competencies
that are favourable for beneficial sustainability in the international business
environment. Further, attitude building and philosophical clarity is a must for
succeeding in the long run.
For becoming a successful business manager, it is important that
graduates build the following abilities:
Leadership skills:
It is always assumed that successful managers are good leaders by
default. Hence, it is crucial that graduates hone their leadership skills by
developing their own knowledge, mastering the art of conducting engaging
interactions and knowing how to create opportunities for the growth of
employees. A good leader is someone who discovers the strengths and skills of
employees and provides them ample chances to develop. The progress of employees
is directly proportional to the success of the organisation as a whole;
Communication skills:
The ability to indulge in engaging conversations with one and all
is a must to attain excellence as a manager or leader. Graduates should hence
concentrate on enhancing their communication skills which will assist them in
giving heed to what the employees have to say and tackle conflicts. Stellar
communication prowess will help them become flexible with their conversation as
per the personality of fellow employees;
>> Time management: A good
leader is an effective time manager and knows the importance of time management
very clearly;
Multi-generation work
style:
The work trends of a company transform with changing generations.
Hence, for becoming an effective manager, it is of paramount importance to gain
a better understanding of the difference in the work styles of different
generations, and adapt smoothly into the prevailing one. A good manager has the
ability to comprehend the requirements of various generations and embrace the
change;
Timely feedback:
Global managers and leaders understand that employees are the soul
of an organisation. Hence, they leave no stone unturned in helping them cement
their career constructively by providing them with fair, positive and frequent
feedback. This gives a fillip to their performance and thus, helps in churning
out excellent future managers of tomorrow;
Cross-cultural
awareness:
Globalisation has made this world a global village, thanks to the
seamless connection that now exists between countries. It is obvious to see
people of a particular country working in different parts of the globe. This
scenario demands managers to be proficient in dealing with cultural and
cross-cultural matters. Detailed know-how of the same will help them understand
cultural diversity and its importance in the functioning of an organisation;
All-round development
of total knowledge:
For becoming a charismatic leader and an efficient manager of
tomorrow, graduates should develop their overall knowledge of technology ,
industry and business. Detailed knowledge about the various aspects of a
business is crucial for developing as a professional manager.
Besides the aforementioned skills, graduates must be competent in
global risk management, dealing with competitors and should possess the knack
to develop healthy and long-lasting relationships and partnerships. The need of
the hour is flexible, pro-active and enthusiastic individuals who can take on
the baton of contributing to the organisation's well-being and growing
professionally in their journey to take the company to new heights.
|
Prof Ashok Kapoor
|
--The author is professor, business communication, MDI Gurgaon
TAS27MAY15
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