Kautilya’s Arthashastra

Hi All,

This would be really interesting... I will be posting some articles regularly in this column.. I know the wrtier personally..... & he is really a great guy....

He writes in for Mumbai Mirror.
 
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nick18_in

MP Guru
Name of paper: MUMBAI MIROR (Times of India)
Date: Monday, 24th April, 06 (page 22)

THE ART OF CONTINUOUSLY EDUCATING OURSELVES
- Radhakrishnan Pillai


(This weekly column will explore the relevance and application of Principles and Strategies discussed in the 3rd Century BC treatise, Kautilya’s Arthashastra, in Today’s Corporate World)​

All of us must have, at some time or the other, heard people complaining about not getting “deserved” promotions or the boss not noticing their “hard work”.

However, few realise that it is not the boss who is responsible for your growth in life but the knowledge and the experience that you acquire. We need to continuously learn in order to grow. Only then will external benefits like increments, promotions and higher responsibilities come to us.

Now, most believe that they do not get time to learn as they are fully occupied with work. So how will such ‘busy’ people learn new things?

This is where Kautilya advices us:

“During the remaining parts of the day and the night, he should learn new things and familiarize himself with those already learnt, and listen repeatedly to things not learnt” (1.5.15)

It is a very simple principle of time management. Utilise your evening and night hours to learn new things, instead of spending them on most unproductive things like partying or just things which are really meaningless.

Even in an office, the peak business hours are generally in the morning. The latter half could and should be used meaningfully and effectively.

You may even use this time to ask questions and learn from seniors on areas that you have not fully understood.

The following are some tips on how you can use the second part o the day more effectively:

  1. Join a class / course
Today, there are various courses and classes that are conducted in post-office hours. Even MBA courses are offered with classes in the evening. If you enrol for any such course, you will automatically leave the office on time rather than not having any fixed agenda to leave the office.

  1. Read books
Get into the habit of reading good books. Especially in a city like ours, you can effectively use your commuting time to do this. Choose the right books for learning nw things. Do not just open any newspaper or magazine for the sake of passing time. You should read with a purpose.

  1. Meet the right people
You should make it a point to meet at least two new people every week. They should be experts in their own field who know much more than you. Go to them with humility and learn the secret of their success.

All of this would, no doubt, make you a better man. After all, you would be following the old adage of “The only time well spent is the time spent in learning new things”!
 

nick18_in

MP Guru
Name of paper: MUMBAI MIROR (Times of India)
Date: Monday, 17th April, 06 (page 21)

DECISION –MAKING MAKES THE LEADER
- Radhakrishnan Pillai


(This weekly column will explore the relevance and application of Principles and Strategies discussed in the 3rd Century BC treatise, Kautilya’s Arthashastra, in Today’s Corporate World)


To become a leader you should think like a leader. Sit down and observe what are the qualities you find in good leaders. And then start practicing them. One of the important qualities of a leader is of decision making.


Kautilya says,

“He should hear (at once) every urgent matter, (and) not put it off. An (affair) postponed becomes difficult to settle or even impossible to settle” (1.19.30)
There is a lot of work that cannot move forward without the final sanction of a leader. Thus, here Kautilya suggests that if there is any subordinate who comes to him with an urgent matter, he should listen to him at once. If he postpones such a decision, the pressure gets piled up and then the situation gets out of control.

A leader has to be a fast thinker, a fast decision maker and a fast implementer. He has no time to waste. Analysing is good but moving ahead is important.

How to become a good decision maker?

  1. Do not be afraid to make mistakes

In an interview a CEO was asked the secret of his success. “It is by taking timely decisions”. “How do you know if your decisions are correct?” He snapped, “By taking wrong decisions”.

Every child has to fall before he learns to walk and run. Do not be afraid of making mistakes. But important is to learn from the mistakes. At At the same time do not to keep making mistakes eternally.

  1. Think with a deadline

While you are planning and thinking over an assignment or a project, give yourself enough time to think over the various possibilities. But keep a time frame when you will want to take an action. Only then theory will meet practice.

  1. Encourage others to take decisions

Work gets stuck up, when it is dependent on a single person. Learn to delegate smaller decisions to your subordinates. Your organisation should become a self managed mechanism. Train others to make them responsible. You should only be dealing with the important matters at the top.

The game should be bigger than the player. The organisation should be bigger than the employees. The purpose should be bigger than you and me.
 

nick18_in

MP Guru
The vital task of stopping attrition - Arthashastra..


Name of paper: MUMBAI MIROR (Times of India)
Date: Monday, 10th April, 06 (page 22)

THE VITAL TASK OF STOPPING ATTRTION
- Radhakrishnan Pillai


(This weekly column will explore the relevance and application of Principles and Strategies discussed in the 3rd Century BC treatise, Kautilya’s Arthashastra, in Today’s Corporate World)​

The biggest challenge faced by any company is that of attrition i.e. avoiding employees from leaving their organisation.

Tackling this is the uppermost task of any and every H.R. department. Strategies and policies are eternally formulated to solve this problem. After all, continuous training, promotions and hikes in salaries are not enough to stem attrition.

Kautilya suggests,


“He should favour those contented, with additional wealth and honour. He should propitiate with gifts and conciliation those, who are discontented, in order to make them contented” (1.13.16-17)


There are generally two types of employees: contented and discontented. As mentioned before, Kautilya gives us a tip on how to handle these two types.

According to him, ignoring the employees who seem contented (those who do not ask for a promotion or a rise of pay) is a very bad HR strategy. Every person works in an organisation for his salary. Just because the employee seems contented does not mean they really are.

Such people just need a bigger offer from a competitor, and they will be gone like the wind. Hence, if you see a contented employee, favour him with additional wealth, awards, and also increments. You will find that they will be more loyal to you. Why? Well, you understood their needs even before they expressed their feelings. After this, there would be no unions or strikes!

As for those who are very restless and discontented, give gifts and other notable benefits to them also in order to retain them in the organisation.

Following are just some methods that can be followed to avoid attrition.

  1. Give importance to HRD (Human Resource Department)
Most top managements consider HR Department as a very ordinary and administrative part of their organisation. Its function is only to recruit, train employees and maintain their records. In fact, each and every management should consider HR as the top priority in their agenda. Work on your people. Only then will your people will work for you.

  1. CEO should be a mentor
A CEO should be a friend, philosopher and guide to all the employees. Running the business is only a small part of his job. His main job is to be a teacher and train people to become future leaders. He should use his years of experience in running a business to train others to do the same.

  1. Create your own culture
Instead of copying form others, develop your own culture – an organisational culture that is unique. Others can copy your product and services but never your culture. Such a culture should be friendly and open. Every employee should “feel” that he is a part of a family.

Break all rules. Get out of your cabin and spend more time with your staff. Let your organisition be the one every one feels proud to work for.
 

nick18_in

MP Guru

Name of paper: MUMBAI MIROR (Times of India)
Date: Monday, 27th Feb, 06 (page 22)

IMPORTANCE OF YOUR ‘ARMY’ AND ‘TREASURY’
- Radhakrishnan Pillai

(This weekly column will explore the relevance and application of Principles and Strategies discussed in the 3rd Century BC treatise, Kautilya’s Arthashastra, in Today’s Corporate World)​

First things first – let us make management simple. Why go around beating the bush, reading a lot of books and doing various courses to understand what really management and leadership is?

Management is all about focusing on how to take your organisation forward. Even in the good old days when the concept of a company or a corporation did not exist, we had efficient managers –the Ministers and the Kings of those times.

What message did Kautilya have for the leaders?
“The king brings under his sway his own party as well as the party of the enemies, by the (use of the) treasury and the army” (1.4.2)

As Kautilya pointed out in order to control and lead an organisation, one needs to focus on just two things – treasury and army.

  1. Treasury or Finance
The success of any county, state, organisation or association, is chiefly dependent on its economic and financial condition. If the balance sheet is good, cash flow is regular, profits are shown year after year and reserves and investments are in proper places, you will then be termed as a financially stable firm.

So the leader needs to make his company financially strong. Everything else will fall into place.


  1. Army or manpower
The second most important aspect is the army, or the kind of men the company possesses. The more efficient, skilled and professional your employees are the better is your productivity. The leader also has to take care that he needs to keep his employees from leaving his organisation.

Even in a non profit or a voluntary organisation, including spiritual organisations, success is dependent on the number of volunteers and workers in can attract and keep.

Even though the above two seem to be different, they are inter-connected. A financially strong company can easily attract better employees. And, only an efficient team can make a firm profitable.

So how does the leader achieve this? The following are some time-tested tips:

  • <LI class=MsoNormal style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify">Recruit the right people <LI class=MsoNormal style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify">Invest in people –train them and pay them well <LI class=MsoNormal style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify">Focus on developing quality in your products and services <LI class=MsoNormal style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify">Keep continuous track of your finance
  • Ensure that you make your company profitable
In the above sutra, Kautilya says that if this is done, the King (leader) will automatically bring under his control not only his own group but also his competitors.

Al ries, a marketing strategist, wrote a book by the name ‘Focus’ which includes various case studies and analysis of successful companies.

He says, “Focus – the future of your company depends on it”. Nothing beats this statement.
 

nick18_in

MP Guru
Name of paper: MUMBAI MIROR (Times of India)
Date: Monday, 12th Feb, 06 (page 22)

START NOW, DON’T WAIT FOR A MAHURAT
- Radhakrishnan Pillai

(This weekly column will explore the relevance and application of Principles and Strategies discussed in the 3rd Century BC treatise, Kautilya’s Arthashastra, in Today’s Corporate World)​

Indian economy is at its best. Foreign investors are pouring money into India. Job opportunities have opened up. Starting a new business is no more limited to the rich class.

In today’s corporate scenario, there are multiple opportunities for anything you want to do. Yet, we find people sad and stressed out worrying about the future.

Kautilya suggests,

“Having found a matter for consideration, he should not allow time to pass” (1.15.45)

Do not wait for any ‘golden’ moment to start what you always wanted to do. The best time is not the ‘murhut’ that the pundit suggests, nor even the dates that come in a calendar. It is right here and now!

After having considered a matter, start work on it immediately. Remember always that the journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step.

While starting any project or assignment, a few steps would be helpful:

  1. SELF EFFORT
There is always a problem in starting anything. Maximum energy is required at this point. You need to challenge your self to get out your laziness. Do not get caught with the postponement attitude. A work started is a work half done. Just start!

  1. PREPARE A PLAN
Starting does not mean getting excited. You need to have a direction for how you are going reach your goal. Take a piece of paper (or open a new file in your computer) and jot down your points. Give shape to your thoughts. Prepare a blue print of what you want to do. Begin with the end in the mind.

  1. CONSULT AN EXPERT
As we are not sure of our ideas being practical, take the advice of an expert. Take the help of the person who can guide you in making your dream a reality. It very important not to go to a people who say, “It will not work”. Beware of such negative energy in the beginning. You will kill the child even before it is born. Your consultant should himself be a person of positive attitude and should be a success in his own field.

  1. WORK OUT YOUR PLAN
All said and done, you have to work out your plan. Do not spend too much time trying to make your plan perfect. Plans are theories that can be successful only if they are given wings of practical application. Once you start, help and required resources will come. You will learn a lot as you keep putting more and more self effort. You can keep improving your plan on the way.

However, it is important to complete what you have started to achieve. It is not important how many new things you have started. What is important is how many of them have you completed. Complete what you have started. And, then, start again after you have completed!
 

nick18_in

MP Guru
Name of paper: MUMBAI MIROR (Times of India)
Date: Monday, 12th Feb, 06 (page 22)

MAINTAIN SECRETS TO AVOID ATTACKS
- Radhakrishnan Pillai

(This weekly column will explore the relevance and application of Principles and Strategies discussed in the 3rd Century BC treatise, Kautilya’s Arthashastra, in Today’s Corporate World)

A leader holds a very responsible position in any team and, hence, also in an organisation. He has to be very careful in his talks and with the words he uses. A single, wrong statement from his end can destroy his organisation.

One of the important factors that a leader should know is how to maintain secrecy.

Kautilya warns the leaders,

“To as many persons the lord of men (the leader) communicates a secret; to so many does he become subservient, being helpless by that act (of his)” (1.8.9)


There are various projects and issues that the leader should never talk about in the open. Until and unless the right time comes, he should not make them publicly known, at least till such a time which is right.

Every work being executed in an organisation goes through three stages – conceptualisation stage, preparation stage and delivery stage. At each stage, there are key ‘secrets’ that only a leader should know. He should never let others know these secrets.

What if he keeps telling his secrets to others? Let’s look at two possible repercussions:

  1. HE HAS TO BEND DOWN

A leader has to bow down to all the people who know his secrets. If more people come to know his secret, the leader will have to bend down that much more. A leader should always be in control of the situation, and not allow others to control him. If he has spoken the ‘right’ thing to the ‘wrong’ person, he has to be at the mercy of such a person to keep that secret intact. Such a person can not only blackmail, but also leak the information to even competitors and enemies.

  1. HE BECOMES HELPLESS

Having opened out his secret to others, the leader becomes totally helpless. Instead of thinking of how to carry out his plans, he will be worrying about how to protect himself from the attack of others.

A golden rule in business is, think twice before you speak. Even a tailor is adviced during his apprentice days, “Measure twice, but cut once”.

Kautilya’s (Chanakya’s), enemies were afraid of him because they could never understand what his next move would be. He always had multiple plans ready in his mind. If one plan failed, he was ready to attack with the next, totally surprising his enemies.

Chandrashekhar Azad, the freedom fighter, was another person who was always a mystery to every one. He would never allow anyone to know where he would be going next. Not only the British, but even his own team members, like Bhagat Singh, would not know his hideouts. He believed that he was ‘Azad’ - the ever free person. If he wanted to be truly free, he had to keep himself unknown to others.

Therefore to be free – keep your mouth shut!
 

nick18_in

MP Guru
Name of paper: MUMBAI MIROR (Times of India)
Date: Monday, 6th Feb, 06 (page 22)

KAUTILYA’S ADVICE FOR MODERN-DAY ROOKIES
- Radhakrishnan Pillai

(This weekly column will explore the relevance and application of Principles and Strategies discussed in the 3rd Century BC treatise, Kautilya’s Arthashastra, in Today’s Corporate World)​


India today has over thousand management institutions. With the Indian economy opening up, and foreign direct investments (FDI) flowing in, there is a lot of demand for the students who come out of these business schools.

Once recruited, the students feel they have achieved their goal. However, the real challenge is yet to start. The management student, who has now become a management trainee, is yet to show the results for which he has been recruited.

How does one work in an organisation which is an all-new environment for the new recruit?

Kautilya advices,
“Under the supervision of the officer, he should carry out the task assigned with special zest” (1.18.4)

No management trainee should consider himself superior because of the course that he has just completed. He might have a theoretical base; however, he has to go a long way to understand its practical applications.

A guide/ mentor is required who can show him how to get things done. These can be the seniors who have acquired knowledge and skills by gaining years of working experience. The senior may not necessarily be as qualified as the pupil; yet, the new recruit has approach him with humility in order to learn and benefit.

Steps for on-the-job training;

  1. UNDER A SUPERVISOR
The insights provided by a supervisor are invaluable. They have gone through their jobs the hard way to master themselves in that particular stream. The trainee should accept his senior as his new teacher. Every teacher is happy to teach a willing and obedient student. At the end the benefit will be thousand fold.

  1. CARRY OUT THE TASK

Whatever tasks the senior assigns should be carried out. No work should be considered small or mediocre. It is only when one does small things perfectly, that one will be able to handle big responsibilities. Completion of any given assignment within the given time frame should be the first objective of a trainee.


  1. SPECIAL ZEST
While carrying out the work, it is the attitude that matters the most. It has to be positive -with extra zeal. The enthusiasm, with which the trainee does his job, shows a lot about his mind set. The eagerness to learn, and the passion to get going, will determine where he will be placed in the future, or what new responsibilities will be given.

The training period is the toughest part. However, it is only a good student who will become a good teacher. After all, only a good subordinate will ultimately become a good boss.

A charted account was hired by a successful businessman to manage his finances. The senior businessman was not even a graduate. Initially, the accountant used to rebel inside, “This person is not even as qualified as I am. Oh! I have to work under such a person”

One day it suddenly stuck him. “Who pays whom?”

This boss has the ability to hire more qualified than himself, to work under him. The charted accountant got determined, “Until and unless I learn all the skills that he possesses for running a business, I will not leave this company.”

That should be your attitude.
 

nick18_in

MP Guru
Name of paper: MUMBAI MIROR (Times of India)
Date: Monday, 30th Jan, 06 (page 22)

THE ARTOF MANAGING MULTIPLE PROJECTS
- Radhakrishnan Pillai

(This weekly column will explore the relevance and application of Principles and Strategies discussed in the 3rd Century BC treatise, Kautilya’s Arthashastra, in Today’s Corporate World)​

Every leader, manager and executive has to handle multiple tasks at any given point of time. This is unavoidable. He may have been appointed for a particular work; however, with time, he will naturally get more and more responsibilities.

Management Guru, Peter Drucker, in his book – ‘On the profession of management’, is compassionate while describing the role of manager. He says, “The role of today’s manager is very difficult. In any given situation, he has to handle multiple projects and assignments. He is always under pressure”

Kautilya, advices us on how to manage multiple projects and get more profits for the company;

“And (they) should bring about the commencement of what is not done, the carrying out of what is commenced, the improvement of what is being carried out and the excellence of (the execution of) orders, in the case of works” (1.15.51)

He looks at four types of works that an executive has to carry out:

  1. Commencement of what is not done
There are many things that need to be done. Good managers are those who start work on their own rather than waiting for the bosses to tell them what to do. Each person has to become proactive. He needs to build his own pipeline. New work has to be started. New experiments have to be tried. New techniques have to be applied.

  1. Carrying out of what is commenced
A project manager said it well, “It is not important how many projects I started, but how many I have completed”. Everyone knows about pressure getting built up simply because we are not able to complete the jobs that we started. Procrastination is the worst disease. Once you pick up this bad habit, decisions are not taken on time, papers get piled up and people loose focus. The best solution is the age of saying, “What you aught to do tomorrow, do today, what you want to do today, do it now!”.

  1. Improvement of what is being carried out
One needs to ensure that the work started should end with a quality output. We should continuously strive for excellence. The Japanese theory of Kaizen believes that there is a scope of continuous improvement in each work a person can do. Excellence then becomes a habit.

  1. Excellence in execution of orders
This means effective delegation. A manger like all other employees had limited time and resources. Thus, in order to do multiple tasking, he has to delegate it to either his team members or outsource activities. Learning this art of effective delegation is very essential if one wants to get climb up the corporate ladder. Management is not about only doing work on your own, but getting work done form others.

Once, a successful CEO who always seemed relaxed, was asked the secret of his cool temperament. He said, “Immediate decisions, faith in people whom I have given the work, and spending more time in activities which will give us more money”
 

nick18_in

MP Guru
Name of paper: MUMBAI MIROR (Times of India)
Date: Monday, 28th Nov, 05 (page 22)
Title Column: The Wealth Script
Author: Radhakrishnan Pillai

DELEGATION OF MULTIPLE TASKING
- Radhakrishnan Pillai

(This weekly column will explore the relevance and application of Principles and Strategies discussed in the 3 rd Century BC treatise, Kautilya's Arthashastra, in Today's Corporate World)

The success stories of great organisaitons start with the dream and will of one single person. Started by him, even a little stream becomes a massive flow. Finally, the organisation reaches the summit of success due to teamwork.

As the organisation grows, work also grows and more and more people join it. From a one man army, it becomes a full fledged army with its own dedicated lieutenants and soldiers. Hence the key to success for a leader lies in effective delegation.

Why is delegation required? Kautilya says,
"Because of the simultaneity of undertakings, their manifoldness and their having to be carried out in many different places, he (leader) should cause them to be carried by ministers, unperceived (by him), so that there is no loss of place and time" ( 1.9.8)


Delegation is required due to the following reasons:


WORK HAPPENS SIMULTANEOUSLY

In an office various departments work simultaneously at the same time. Each of them becomes specailsed in that particular area. Sales, accounts, marketing, HR, R &D many other processes go on continuously.

WORK HAPPENS AT VARIOUS PLACES

These multiple tasks are carried out not only by various people but at various places. Some of the work would be happening inside the office while many outside the office. For a big organisation, work happens in various branches and also in various countries.


Decision making should get decentralised to various managers. The benefit is the saving in loss of time and place. As the famous saying goes, "In business -Time is money". Delayed decision making leads to loss of time and opportunities.

A few are the tips for effective delegation,

  1. SELECTION

Good decision makers should be made as managers and departmental heads. An effective manager does not get struck while taking decisions. He may make mistakes but having corrected himself with each mistake the work goes on in good speed.

  1. SETTING OF MIS

The head of the organisation need to set up a good reporting system. In corporate language this is technically called as Management Information system (MIS). Lot of software tools is available in the market for this or one can create of their own.

  1. TRAINING

The decision makers have to be trained to report all the activities using the MIS. This kind of training helps both the reporter and reported to effectively use of the reports being produced. With the internet revolution one can access these reports anytime and anywhere. It is also cost effective.

  1. CONTROL

The leader can keep track of the various developments and shortcomings in each area on a daily basis. He can control the whole organisation with the help of such a well planned out system

Peter Drucker the father of modern management once said, "Initially delegation is not easy. It gives a feeling of insecurity. However one realises that it leads to one's freedom"

 

nick18_in

MP Guru
Name of paper: MUMBAI MIROR (Times of India)
Date: Monday, 26th Sept, 05 (page 21)
Title Column: The Wealth Script
Author: Radhakrishnan Pillai
GETTING THE CORRECT ADVICE
- Radhakrishnan Pillai

(This weekly column will explore the relevance and application of Principles and Strategies discussed in the 3rd Century BC treatise, Kautilya’s Arthashastra, in Today’s Corporate World)​


Consultants are required by every company in various departments, activities and also in the board room. They play a very critical role of beacons, illuminating the right path and bringing focus to achieve the organisation’s goals and objectives.

Whenever a new venture has to be started a person with knowledge in that particular field is required for guidance. His tips and insights can help us to avoid many pitfalls save a lot time and effort. Such a person is a consultant. Kenichi Ohmae, the author of the famous management book, ‘The mind of a strategist – The Art of Japanese Business’ says, “A consultant plays the role of a strategist and a mentor at the same time”.

Kautilya in the Arthashastra goes step by step in the process of identifying the right consultant and how to work with them.
“All undertakings should be preceded by consultation. Holding a consultation with only one, he may not be able to reach a decision in difficult matters. With more councilors it is difficult to reach decisions and maintain secrecy” (1.15.2,35,40)

DO NOT PROCEED WITHOUT CONSULTATION

In business and in other aspects of life it is important to understand the fact that – I require guidance. Proceeding without the advice of experts can lead to serious mistakes. A consultant has years of experience and knowledge, based on which he can give valuable suggestions.

DO NOT CONSULT ONLY ONE PERSON

After knowing that one requires a consultant, however, it should also be understood that the ultimate decision and course of action should be based on one’s own discrimination and judgment. Complete dependence on one person can narrow the viewpoint. Only different persons can bring variety and freshness to perspective. Therefore, there should always be more than one guide.

DO NOT CONSULT WITH TOO MANY

While it is important to look at different perspectives, it should not be overdone. Getting too many people involved can create confusion. Just as too many cooks spoil the broth, too many ideas can complicate matters, making it difficult to hit the right course. Moreover, if more people come about a project, its plan could be compromised to rivals. It is important to announce a project only when all the ground work is complete.

CONSULT WITH THE MATURED

“Therefore sit and counsel with those who are matured in intellect” ( 1.15.20-21)

After one has identified these few right people, about two or three of them, the next step is to sit along with them. Sitting means listening to their insights, imbibing form their deep knowledge of the subject and vast experience. They should be people who are matured in intellect. It means those who are experienced, deeply analytical and possess an intellectual and practical knowledge of that particular subject.

Kautilya himself was such a consultant who advised emperor Chandragupta Maurya on strategies in war, diplomacy, statecraft and economy during one of the most important periods in Indian history.
 

nick18_in

MP Guru
Name of paper: MUMBAI MIROR (Times of India)
Date: Monday, 11th September, 06 (page 22)
TAKING THE ADVICE OF CONSULTANTS
- Radhakrishnan Pillai

(This weekly column will explore the relevance and application of Principles and Strategies of Chanakya as discussed in his 3rd Century BC treatise, Kautilya’s Arthashastra, in Today’s Corporate World)



Let’s face it: A consultant is required for every organisation. Why? Because, being an experienced person, he can look at the problem objectively and unemotionally and then offer you a simple solution. This is where the role of a management consultant comes into play.

Therefore, before making any action plan for your company, it is necessary to take the advice of a consultant.

Chanakya advices,


“He should ask the councilors concerning a matter exactly similar to the undertaking he has in mind, ‘this work was like this, or, if it were to happen like this, how then should it be done?’. As they might advice, so should he do that work” (1.15.24-25)


Here, Chanakya suggests that when a company takes a management consultant on board for advice and suggestions, it should be with an open mind.

Here are a few tips:


  • [*]CHOOSE THE RIGHT CONSULTANT

There are many consultants available in the market. However, you should be clear what kind of expertise you want. Choose such a person who is experienced and has a thorough understand and the knowledge of that particular field in question. He should not only have a theoretical aptitude but also a practical know-how of the problems you are facing or may do so in the future.

The consultant should be a person who not only gives advices, but also makes sure that you are benefiting from the same. He should be able to explain the problem with simple examples.


  • [*]SIT AND LISTEN TO HIM

Having chosen the right consultant, it is important to sit down with him and explain what you want from him. As already pointed out, don’t forget to ask, “What should be done?” The right questions will give you the right answers. His insights are very essential for building your strategy.


  • [*]FROM ADVICE TO APPLICATION

After getting the necessary advice, many companies usually think that the work of a consultant is over. But wait! Think through every possible angle. Having a consultant in an advisory capacity is just the beginning. You should try and involve him in the application aspect as well. Let him also be a part of the process to apply these ideas and get the desired results.

Remember – the consultant has to be a part of your team throughout the duration of the project. If and when the need arises, you could and should go back to him before starting another project.
 

nick18_in

MP Guru
Name of paper: MUMBAI MIROR (Times of India)
Date: Monday, 3rd July, 06 (page 21)
THE SEVEN STRONG PILLARS OF ANY BUSINESS
- Radhakrishnan Pillai

A strong foundation is the key to any successful business. Your vision, your commitment, your purpose - all from the basis for an organisation. They are the all-important pillars, the most essential part of any building.

In his groundbreaking Arthashastra, Chanakya lists seven pillars for an organisation.

“The king, the minister, the country, the fortified city, the treasury, the army and the ally are the constituent elements of the state” (6.1.1)


Let us now take a closer look at each of them:

  • THE KING (The leader)

All great organisations have great leaders. The leader is the visionary, the captain, the man who guides the organisation. In today’s corporate world we call him the Director, CEO, etc. Without him we will loose direction.

  • THE MINISTER (The manager)

The manager is the person who runs the show - the second-in-command of an organisation. He is also the person whom you can depend upon in the absence of the leader. He is the man who is always in action. An extra ordinary leader and an efficient manager together bring into existence a remarkable organisation.

  • THE COUNTRY (Your market)

No business can exist without its market capitalisation. It is the area of your operation. The place from where you get your revenue and cash flow. You basically dominate this territory and would like to keep your monopoly in this segment.

  • THE FORTIFIDCITY (Head office)

You need a control tower - a place from where all planning and strategies are made. It’s from here that your central administrative work is done. It’s the nucleus and the center of any organisation.

  • THE TREASURY

Finance is an extremely important resource. It is the backbone of any business. A strong and well-managed treasury is the heart of any organisation. Your treasury is also your financial hub.

  • THE ARMY (Your team)

When we go to war, we need a well-equipped and trained army. The army consists of your team members. Those who are ready to fight for the organisation. The salesmen, the accountant, the driver, the peon - all of them add to your team.

  • THE ALLY (friend / consultant)

In life you should have a friend who is just like you. Being, in the same boat, he can identify with you and stay close. He is the one whom you can depend upon when problems arise. After all, a friend in need is a friend in deed.


Look at these seven pillars. Only when these are built into firm and strong sections can the organisation shoulder any responsibility and face all challenges.

And while building them, do not forget to imbibe that vital ingredient called values, speaking about which, in his book ‘Build to last’, Jim Collins has said, “Values are the roots from where an organisation continuously gets its supply as well as grounding – build on them!”
 

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MP Guru
Name of paper: MUMBAI MIROR (Times of India)
Date: Monday, 18th September, 06 (page 22)
THE KEY TO SUCCESS IS SILENCE!
- Radhakrishnan Pillai

(This weekly column will explore the relevance and application of Principles and Strategies of Chanakya as discussed in his 3rd Century BC treatise, Kautilya’s Arthashastra, in Today’s Corporate World)​

While making a corporate strategy, there are certain associations and relationships that one needs to keep secret from others. And there are some that need to be given openly to the public. Learn to differentiate between the two.

For example, the brand ambassador of a company should be openly exhibited/used in order to achieve the desired branding and sales target. But people being used within the corporate structure – like the key technicians or consultants - should never be publiced.

Therefore, to succeed in any project, Chanakya suggests,

“In case of secret association, those concluded in secret shall succeed” (3.1.11)

Every business leader has friends, strategists, associates and market intelligence experts, from whom he takes advice and to whom he even gives information. These are his resources for thoughts. Until and unless it is required, he should never make them public. Only after understanding this can he succeed in reaching his desired results.

Here are some steps for maintaining secrecy in a project:

  • LET THE IDEA EVOLVE
Many people get excited when they come up with a ‘billion-dollar’ idea. They go on telling others about it. They feel they have hit a gold mine and others will come to buy this idea. However, it’s just a matter of time before some one else (including your competitors) takes the idea and may even go on to profit from it. So please let the idea mature in your heart and mind before you work on it. Take time with yourself.

  • EXPERIMENT IT QUIETLY
As your ideas take shape, talk to a few people – just a few -who can help you to make it practically viable. Think through all the areas that are important to make a project successful – like the research involved, finance required, the people needed, the technical expertise, time to complete the project etc. Then, before you go for the full project, do a pilot project. Thus, you will know the difficulties involved. Remember, a sculptor always makes a six-inch model before the actual 60-foot statue!

  • EXECUTIVE EFFECTIVELY
You should make your moves very quietly till the time to attack comes. Most importantly, you would keep all plans away from your competitor’s eyes. However, when you do execute the plan, make sure that it is complete and perfect. As the saying goes, “Never give your opponent a second chance; you may not survive the counter attack!”
 

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MP Guru
Name of paper: MUMBAI MIROR (Times of India)
Date: Monday, 16th Oct, 06 (page 25)
MAINTAINING SELF-DISCIPLINE IN THE OFFICE
- Radhakrishnan Pillai

(This weekly column will explore the relevance and application of Principles and Strategies of Chanakya as discussed in his 3rd Century BC treatise, Kautilya’s Arthashastra, in Today’s Corporate World)​


All of us, at sometime or the other, have to do a job that we don’t like. It’s a universal truth and will remain an eternal requirement.

In this environment, self discipline becomes the key to success.

Chanakya says,
“One doing whatever pleases him does not achieve anything” (7.11.35)

There are many things in life that we like to do but should not - eating junk food, sitting late at offices even when it is not required, browsing the net without a purpose, all these add up to make a person unproductive and inefficient in the long run.

Hence, discipline becomes a must, especially in an office atmosphere. It could initially be just ‘external’, like a boss guiding, directing and controlling an employee. However, in the long run, external discipline should become internal discipline.

The following are some tips on how to self discipline yourself in the office:

  • PLAN YOU DAY IN ADVANCE
Most employees in office do not have a purpose. Neither do they have an idea of what they are supposed to achieve when they leave their homes. It is more of a routine for them to travel to and from office. They hardly have any enthusiasm. To avoid all this, an employee needs to, before leaving the office itself, plan his next day. A good time-table will help tackle not only such regular activities as mailing, report preparation, calls etc but also special activities like presentations and meetings which need to be looked at in detail. Keep one hour extra in your plan to accommodate unexpected events.

  • DO NOT BE IMPULSIVE
Most problems happen when one becomes impulsive, especially when faced with a new or unexpected work. For instance, if you are doing a particular work and someone calls up or comes up to you for a different task, do not jump at the new project immediately. Slow down. Complete the work in hand first before you take up the new task. Your original plan for the day is more important. In fact, you should keep track of what you have planned for the day on the hour, every hour.

  • BE PROACTIVE
Stepen Covey, in his book ‘7 habits of highly effective people’ says that being proactive is the most important habit of a successful person. So do not wait for problems to crop up; find solutions even before they arrive. The more you get into the habit of ‘right thinking’ the more focused and sharp you will become.

Remember, discipline is not an inborn thing - it needs to be cultivated. We may fail many times but just don’t give up, it is important to get up and keep going.
 

nick18_in

MP Guru
Name of paper: MUMBAI MIROR (Times of India)
Date: Monday, 30th Oct, 06 (page 21)
DO WE TAKE THE NEW JOB OR STICK ON?
- Radhakrishnan Pillai

(This weekly column will explore the relevance and application of Principles and Strategies of Chanakya as discussed in his 3rd Century BC treatise, Kautilya’s Arthashastra, in Today’s Corporate World)​

Now that’s a true quandary that all of us have faced at sometime of the other. To continue in the current job or move to a different company, to be in service or start our own business, to keep working or take a break for a higher education – these questions haunt every person in the corporate world today,

Chanakya offers a solution for managing such conflicts,
“In case of two alternate routes, he should march in a region suitable to himself” (10.2.10)


This advice is self explanatory. But the choice taken subsequently could either make or break us. And not just for choosing jobs.

Such a ‘conflict management situation’ can arise for any and every aspect of life itself. At such times, you have to think through your head and feel through your heart. Keep a check of your strength and weaknesses.

How does one do this? Well, here are some tips for you to follow when facing that tough decision:

  • ASK YOURSELF
The first person you have to consider is yourself. Ask yourself if you are doing the right thing. If you feel that - in the current company and industry - your growth has stagnated, then, prepare yourself for a change. It would actually be great to have an open discussion with your boss or seniors to get a direction. If you still feel the solution is not forthcoming, then seek help externally.

  • SPEAK TO OTHERS
You can consult the experts of your field and check if you are capable of doing something better. If this is too difficult, look at the websites that can guide you in this matter. Join an online group of like-minded people and seek guidance and tips for better understanding of your situation.

  • FOLLOW THAT ‘GUT-FEEL’
Finally, after all this analyses, the important part is to take a step in the direction where you want to be in the future. If you continue doing what you are doing, you will continue getting what you are getting. So if you want to be different from what you currently are, do something different. Once you take this first step, half the battle is won – provided you want to fight for something better!

Look, there are plenty of opportunities today. But few take risks. Only, those who take calculated risks with measures steps can succeed in achieving their long-term goals.

And please never regret a decision. Even –and especially – if it is a wrong move, keep going along the chosen path. You just need to follow the military maxim- “Burn the bridges behind you”. That’ll leave no avenue for retreat!
 

nick18_in

MP Guru
Name of paper: MUMBAI MIROR (Times of India)
Date: Monday, 23rd Oct, 06 (page 21)
DON’T FORGET THOSE WHO GOT YOU THE JOB!
- Radhakrishnan Pillai

(This weekly column will explore the relevance and application of Principles and Strategies of Chanakya as discussed in his 3rd Century BC treatise, Kautilya’s Arthashastra, in Today’s Corporate World)​

Of all the places, it’s in the office where most people will concede that their success has come about due to the contribution and guidance of various people.

Now it’s our duty never to forget even the smallest help given. Even the world’s first management guru – Chanakya – says the same,

“He should gratify, according to his power to help, one who has helped him” (7.16.17)

But let’s face it - the human mind is very unstable and we generally forget people and the things they have done in the long run. And with today’s fast-changing world where there’s hardly any time, it is even more difficult to remember.

Practice these suggestions,

  • WRITE IT DOWN
Make a list of people who have helped and have been instrumental in shaping your life and career. Your first boss, the placement agency, the friend whom you always call up for any professional help you need – all of them. Treat this list as one of the most important documents of your life. Keep adding names as more people help you.

  • MAKE AN EFFORT TO CALL
When making the list, don’t forget to add their contact details. Special dates in their lives would be a good addition too. These will give you a good reason to give a call and wish them on special occasions. If not all, just one call a year on their birthdays would be enough.

  • GIVE A GIFT
Chanakya, in his book Arthashastra, says that gift is the most powerful medium to influence anyone. Do not even waste time thinking about this! However, you need not go out of the way to buy an expensive gift. As given in the verse above - “according to his power” - buy in your capacity.

  • BE READY TO HELP
Most of the above may even look superficial. But helping out, especially when needed, is the most valuable thing you could do. The HR head of company put it beautifully, when he said, “Always help others to get jobs – you never know when you would require one”
 

nick18_in

MP Guru
Name of paper: MUMBAI MIROR (Times of India)
Date: Monday, 6th Nov, 06 (page 20)
PLEASE DON’T WAIT TO TAKE THAT FIRST STEP
- Radhakrishnan Pillai

(This weekly column will explore the relevance and application of Principles and Strategies of Chanakya as discussed in his 3rd Century BC treatise, Kautilya’s Arthashastra, in Today’s Corporate World)​
Most of us wait for the right opportunity to get our dream job. We wait for a ‘wanted’ ad to appear in the newspaper before even thinking of making the next jump in career. Even businessmen wait for information to get the ‘dream’ contract.

This is a big mistake!

Even if our dream job or project is currently not available at present in the market, we can create the opportunity. Chanakya was a great believer in self effort rather than depending on fate or destiny to shape up situations. He says,
“One trusting in fate, being devoid of human endeavour, perishes, because he does not
start undertakings or his undertakings have miscarried (failed)” (7.11.34)

Obviously then, if opportunities don’t knock at our doors, we go to opportunities and knock their doors! Now how does one do that?

Here are a few tips:

  1. KNOW YOUR STRENGTHS
Before you go around banging on doors, do a little bit of of introspection. Know your strengths. Focus on what you are good at. Chanakya calls this as a person’s Swadharma (what one is naturally capable of doing). Create your dream work / project around what you can deliver better than others. Prepare your resume or business plan clearly highlighting your past experience and what makes your different from the others.

  1. TAP THE RIGHT PERSONS
Now a good resume or a business plan is not enough in itself. We have to market ourselves. For this, it is important to know who the people are and which companies would like to use our services. Mail your proposal, call up and take appointments. Finally, go and have a word with them. A face to face meeting is an absolute must. Don’t wait for someone to call you. There are many companies that have vacancies and projects to be executed, but do not advertise.

  1. BE CLEAR ON THE FINANCIALS
Lets be honest - there are no free lunches. Before you pitch yourself, also think through how much money you want to make from this new initiative. During the meetings speak and work on the financials and economics involved. A win-win situation can happen only when we are clear about our roles, goals and more importantly, the financials.

Remember that, when you finally and your dream job or project, it is not enough. In fact, it’s the beginning. Fro then comes the time to deliver what you promised.

Show your capability, not just by words but by result-oriented actions too. And learn to work with others, for that’s the secret for succeeding in any project.
 
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