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Tuesday, 14 July 2020

A simple lesson in Leadership

A simple lesson in Leadership. It was a very special day for me, and I was rather elated, as I had taken over as Headmaster of The Bishop’s school Pune. So, I now had my own office, a peon, a phone on the table, a higher salary and certainly more responsibilities. I had worked hard and was proud and thankful for the reward. Things were looking up for me. Incidentally, it was just my seventh year in the institution. Founder’s week was fast approaching and something I had to do without further delay, was to prepare the various duty lists – for the Church service , the PE display , the fete , the past vs present cricket match and the exhibition . I went about the job with gusto, determined to get the lists out well in time. It was the first task I was taking on since my appointment and my enthusiasm knew no bounds. For me it was a breeze – I had assisted others in similar jobs over the years and I thought nothing of it. However, I was soon to realize the folly of haste. No sooner was the list for the PE display put on the notice board in the staff room, than I got the message, that a certain senior master (we will call him Mr X ) was extremely upset. Further discreet enquiries revealed, that for years he had been assigned a certain job for this event and he had carried it out effortlessly - now I had given him something totally different to do - he felt it was a sort of demotion , considering the number of years he had served in the institution and it was a no brainer that others egged him on too . Everyone wants to put a new leader to the test! Mr X had apparently also mentioned that he would not do the duty and would be on leave that day. He added that he felt demoralized and dejected. So here was the situation – me in the hot seat for just a day and already I had a crisis on my hands. Not a very enviable position to be in for a young leader. The aggrieved gentleman had an elder brother working in Bishops too and I was quite friendly with him. A little later, I saw him pass by my office and requested him to come in. Rather than beat around the bush I asked him right away what needed to be done to remedy the situation as I did not intend to let it drag on .The event was about two weeks away and there was plenty of planning to be done – the last thing I needed on my plate was a disgruntled and upset senior member of staff, who was loved and respected by the boys and members of the faculty. He smiled a wry smile and agreed that there was a problem as his brother was upset. His then agreed with me that, rather than let the matter drag on, I should call Mr X and talk the matter over- he assured me that although he was quite hot headed by nature and was quite angry with me , he would probably understand . That evening I rehearsed what I would say and how I would broach the subject the next morning and yes, I was nervous and apprehensive, wondering as to what the outcome would be. Masters who did not live on campus came in at 7.00 am for morning tuition with the boarders and hence I was out in the quadrangle well before that- pacing impatiently and waiting for 7.00am. As soon as I saw him near the senior classroom, I requested him to come to my office. He raised his eyebrows rather incredulously but came towards me. We both walked the fifty meters to my office in ominous silence. We entered the room and I sat down beckoning him to do likewise. He replied that he preferred to stand and oh yes, he was scowling. This was rather awkward but I persisted. I tried offering him a cup of tea, but he refused that as well and instead asked me what I wanted of him. I am not exactly sure as to what came over me at that moment , but, contrary to what I had initially planned , I walked round the table, put my arm around his shoulder and just said I was sorry for hurting him. What happened next took me totally off guard. He hugged me and burst into tears. Seeing that reaction, my eyes welled up with tears too, but we then both sat down and neither spoke for a few minutes. Things calmed down and I guess we both felt a trifle relieved. I broke the ice by saying that I had prepared the list and made changes as I felt he would be better suited to the new task. I also added that it was the first task I was undertaking, and, in all probability, the over enthusiasm had done me in! I told him that if it helped, I would change the duty given to him. Throughout this time, Mr X kept looking down and never said a word. His tightly clasped hands told me in no uncertain terms that he was angry. He then suddenly stood up, came around to the side of the table and told me that there was no need to change the duty and that he would do it. It was now his time to apologise and he did so by saying that he had probably overreacted, which was wrong. We shook hands – it was a rather long shake. We then sat down and probably chatted for about an hour on various topics of school life. He accepted my offer of a cup of tea. I listened to the story of his life and I told him mine and I do believe, that day we both saw each other in a totally new light. He vowed to support me in everything I planned, and I felt happy that I had found a friend and a confidant I could consult and learn from. I informed him of how I planned to function and what needed to change, and he understood and appreciated the facts I presented. Thereafter, whenever there was an important event or function coming up, I ensured that I involved Mr X in the planning and execution. To his credit he took on all the most onerous tasks and carried them out willingly and to perfection. He also followed up to ensure that all staff and pupils carried out their duties as well. What more could I have asked for? He was reliable, loyal and was a valuable member of my core team henceforth. Although nothing was intentional, someone was hurt because of my actions and I did learn a few valuable leadership lessons from this incident. 1. Haste makes waste – spend more time but be thorough 2. Look at all angles 3. Consult, consult, consult 4. Teamwork is critical to success 5. Admit when at fault – saying sorry may not be easy, but it is the correct thing to do, when wrong 6. Remember that human beings have feelings and that some people are far more sensitive than others. 7. Being gentle and understanding does not make you a pushover 8. Tell the truth. 9. Rather than antagonize, attempt to win people over- having good people skills is crucial. 10. One must not come across as threatening or aggressive 11. Being approachable is important – it builds trust 12. Face a problem head on rather than letting it fester. 13. Never shy away from finding a solution. 14. Be a good listener – sometimes people just want to be heard. 15. Sometimes it is better to lose the battle to win the war. Mr X and I remained colleagues and good friends for years thereafter – there was so much mutual respect and admiration. Do not get me wrong –he was argumentative by nature and questioned several of my decisions, but was somebody, who, when convinced, was a gem of a man. He also recognized the fact that I took my job seriously, knew what I was doing and the direction I was steering the school in. He was a first-rate teacher, a firm disciplinarian, he looked after some important co-curricular activities and was well respected by all as he was one of the longest serving masters in the school. Sadly,when he passed on after serving the institution for over thirty years , I was one of the first people that was informed and along with other masters in the school , we made all the necessary arrangements for his burial. I will always remember Mr X as a good human being – one of the stalwarts and pillars of The Bishop’s school, Pune. Rest in peace my friend and thank you.

A simple lesson in Leadership

A simple lesson in Leadership. It was a very special day for me, and I was rather elated, as I had taken over as Headmaster of The Bishop’s school Pune. So, I now had my own office, a peon, a phone on the table, a higher salary and certainly more responsibilities. I had worked hard and was proud and thankful for the reward. Things were looking up for me. Incidentally, it was just my seventh year in the institution. Founder’s week was fast approaching and something I had to do without further delay, was to prepare the various duty lists – for the Church service , the PE display , the fete , the past vs present cricket match and the exhibition . I went about the job with gusto, determined to get the lists out well in time. It was the first task I was taking on since my appointment and my enthusiasm knew no bounds. For me it was a breeze – I had assisted others in similar jobs over the years and I thought nothing of it. However, I was soon to realize the folly of haste. No sooner was the list for the PE display put on the notice board in the staff room, than I got the message, that a certain senior master (we will call him Mr X ) was extremely upset. Further discreet enquiries revealed, that for years he had been assigned a certain job for this event and he had carried it out effortlessly - now I had given him something totally different to do - he felt it was a sort of demotion , considering the number of years he had served in the institution and it was a no brainer that others egged him on too . Everyone wants to put a new leader to the test! Mr X had apparently also mentioned that he would not do the duty and would be on leave that day. He added that he felt demoralized and dejected. So here was the situation – me in the hot seat for just a day and already I had a crisis on my hands. Not a very enviable position to be in for a young leader. The aggrieved gentleman had an elder brother working in Bishops too and I was quite friendly with him. A little later, I saw him pass by my office and requested him to come in. Rather than beat around the bush I asked him right away what needed to be done to remedy the situation as I did not intend to let it drag on .The event was about two weeks away and there was plenty of planning to be done – the last thing I needed on my plate was a disgruntled and upset senior member of staff, who was loved and respected by the boys and members of the faculty. He smiled a wry smile and agreed that there was a problem as his brother was upset. His then agreed with me that, rather than let the matter drag on, I should call Mr X and talk the matter over- he assured me that although he was quite hot headed by nature and was quite angry with me , he would probably understand . That evening I rehearsed what I would say and how I would broach the subject the next morning and yes, I was nervous and apprehensive, wondering as to what the outcome would be. Masters who did not live on campus came in at 7.00 am for morning tuition with the boarders and hence I was out in the quadrangle well before that- pacing impatiently and waiting for 7.00am. As soon as I saw him near the senior classroom, I requested him to come to my office. He raised his eyebrows rather incredulously but came towards me. We both walked the fifty meters to my office in ominous silence. We entered the room and I sat down beckoning him to do likewise. He replied that he preferred to stand and oh yes, he was scowling. This was rather awkward but I persisted. I tried offering him a cup of tea, but he refused that as well and instead asked me what I wanted of him. I am not exactly sure as to what came over me at that moment , but, contrary to what I had initially planned , I walked round the table, put my arm around his shoulder and just said I was sorry for hurting him. What happened next took me totally off guard. He hugged me and burst into tears. Seeing that reaction, my eyes welled up with tears too, but we then both sat down and neither spoke for a few minutes. Things calmed down and I guess we both felt a trifle relieved. I broke the ice by saying that I had prepared the list and made changes as I felt he would be better suited to the new task. I also added that it was the first task I was undertaking, and, in all probability, the over enthusiasm had done me in! I told him that if it helped, I would change the duty given to him. Throughout this time, Mr X kept looking down and never said a word. His tightly clasped hands told me in no uncertain terms that he was angry. He then suddenly stood up, came around to the side of the table and told me that there was no need to change the duty and that he would do it. It was now his time to apologise and he did so by saying that he had probably overreacted, which was wrong. We shook hands – it was a rather long shake. We then sat down and probably chatted for about an hour on various topics of school life. He accepted my offer of a cup of tea. I listened to the story of his life and I told him mine and I do believe, that day we both saw each other in a totally new light. He vowed to support me in everything I planned, and I felt happy that I had found a friend and a confidant I could consult and learn from. I informed him of how I planned to function and what needed to change, and he understood and appreciated the facts I presented. Thereafter, whenever there was an important event or function coming up, I ensured that I involved Mr X in the planning and execution. To his credit he took on all the most onerous tasks and carried them out willingly and to perfection. He also followed up to ensure that all staff and pupils carried out their duties as well. What more could I have asked for? He was reliable, loyal and was a valuable member of my core team henceforth. Although nothing was intentional, someone was hurt because of my actions and I did learn a few valuable leadership lessons from this incident. 1. Haste makes waste – spend more time but be thorough 2. Look at all angles 3. Consult, consult, consult 4. Teamwork is critical to success 5. Admit when at fault – saying sorry may not be easy, but it is the correct thing to do, when wrong 6. Remember that human beings have feelings and that some people are far more sensitive than others. 7. Being gentle and understanding does not make you a pushover 8. Tell the truth. 9. Rather than antagonize, attempt to win people over- having good people skills is crucial. 10. One must not come across as threatening or aggressive 11. Being approachable is important – it builds trust 12. Face a problem head on rather than letting it fester. 13. Never shy away from finding a solution. 14. Be a good listener – sometimes people just want to be heard. 15. Sometimes it is better to lose the battle to win the war. Mr X and I remained colleagues and good friends for years thereafter – there was so much mutual respect and admiration. Do not get me wrong –he was argumentative by nature and questioned several of my decisions, but was somebody, who, when convinced, was a gem of a man. He also recognized the fact that I took my job seriously, knew what I was doing and the direction I was steering the school in. He was a first-rate teacher, a firm disciplinarian, he looked after some important co-curricular activities and was well respected by all as he was one of the longest serving masters in the school. Sadly,when he passed on after serving the institution for over thirty years , I was one of the first people that was informed and along with other masters in the school , we made all the necessary arrangements for his burial. I will always remember Mr X as a good human being – one of the stalwarts and pillars of The Bishop’s school, Pune. Rest in peace my friend and thank you.

Monday, 13 July 2020

Getting influenza this year- the Covid effect

I am not a big fan of Nostradamus neither am I a prophet of doom. However, Come September – October and the flu season will be upon us. Now this is something to think about. Every family, going by statistics, has a few people who get influenza every year. Colds, fever etc are all taken in their stride. Symptoms usually appear from one to four days after exposure to the virus, and they last five to seven days. You are then left a little weak but up and about. If things get worse as they sometimes do – the person consults a doctor, gets a few medicines coupled with the soothing doctor’s advice which works wonders for me and soon everything is under control. This year the whole scenario will be very different for obvious reasons. School infirmaries will be buzzing with activity with kids and staff by the dozen, coming down with fever and beginning to sneeze and get body aches while in school. Usually, they are given some simple over the counter medication and sent back to class as soon as they feel a little better. At times, if the temperature is on the high side or the kid feels poorly, the parents are informed, and the kid is taken home - what about this year? Fear psychosis, a sense of helplessness, the worry about impending isolation, sanitization, ambulance, anxious parents, WhatsApp messages circulating & causing unnecessary confusion, ? Hopefully not. I am just sitting and thinking about the impending panic, which, whether you like it or care to believe or not- will follow in schools, in homes, in offices and factories all over the world this year. I am not a hypochondriac, but, like many others, getting the normal flu this year will surely worry me. IT WILL BE DIFFERENT AND STRESSFUL . Should I have a Covid test? – should I play a wait and watch game? Should I – Should I – Should I? I really do not know. Pray that better sense prevails, and everyone is cautious and following the instructions of the authorities in whichever country they are. To overcome this, we all must be responsible. This is not something to scoff at or attempt to brush under the carpet hoping it will go away. This is not the time to be rash, brash, or foolhardy either. This is serious business and must be taken as such. Comparing the statistics to Asian flu, Spanish flu, Ebola , Zika Virus , H1N1 Swine flu ,Sars , Bird flu and Aids will not help . It is so very painful and frighteningly disgusting to see people in large groups chatting – all without masks on, or masks pulled down under the chin without a care in the world. People without gloves in supermarkets touching and feeling vegetables, milk bottles and other items. Unadulterated ignorance and pure stupidity, to put it bluntly, is what I term it. Cannot help but quote that rather sinister saying which I read somewhere a few weeks ago “better to be six feet apart than six feet under”

Getting influenza this year- the Covid effect

I am not a big fan of Nostradamus neither am I a prophet of doom. However, Come September – October and the flu season will be upon us. Now this is something to think about. Every family, going by statistics, has a few people who get influenza every year. Colds, fever etc are all taken in their stride. Symptoms usually appear from one to four days after exposure to the virus, and they last five to seven days. You are then left a little weak but up and about. If things get worse as they sometimes do – the person consults a doctor, gets a few medicines coupled with the soothing doctor’s advice which works wonders for me and soon everything is under control. This year the whole scenario will be very different for obvious reasons. School infirmaries will be buzzing with activity with kids and staff by the dozen, coming down with fever and beginning to sneeze and get body aches while in school. Usually, they are given some simple over the counter medication and sent back to class as soon as they feel a little better. At times, if the temperature is on the high side or the kid feels poorly, the parents are informed, and the kid is taken home - what about this year? Fear psychosis, a sense of helplessness, the worry about impending isolation, sanitization, ambulance, anxious parents, WhatsApp messages circulating & causing unnecessary confusion, ? Hopefully not. I am just sitting and thinking about the impending panic, which, whether you like it or care to believe or not- will follow in schools, in homes, in offices and factories all over the world this year. I am not a hypochondriac, but, like many others, getting the normal flu this year will surely worry me. IT WILL BE DIFFERENT AND STRESSFUL . Should I have a Covid test? – should I play a wait and watch game? Should I – Should I – Should I? I really do not know. Pray that better sense prevails, and everyone is cautious and following the instructions of the authorities in whichever country they are. To overcome this, we all must be responsible. This is not something to scoff at or attempt to brush under the carpet hoping it will go away. This is not the time to be rash, brash, or foolhardy either. This is serious business and must be taken as such. Comparing the statistics to Asian flu, Spanish flu, Ebola , Zika Virus , H1N1 Swine flu ,Sars , Bird flu and Aids will not help . It is so very painful and frighteningly disgusting to see people in large groups chatting – all without masks on, or masks pulled down under the chin without a care in the world. People without gloves in supermarkets touching and feeling vegetables, milk bottles and other items. Unadulterated ignorance and pure stupidity, to put it bluntly, is what I term it. Cannot help but quote that rather sinister saying which I read somewhere a few weeks ago “better to be six feet apart than six feet under”

Monday, 6 July 2020

My first job

In the course of my job, over the years, I have had the opportunity to interact with countless hard-working individuals, some inevitable dodgers, innumerable managers and a few exceptional leaders. These have not all been in the education field. I will not take names, so a resemblance to anyone living or dead is purely coincidental. This is about my first job. Let me start at the very beginning. I started working at a very early age – and studying full time simultaneously - needed to. Before I ventured into teaching, I was kind of in a quandary as to what I should do. I did seriously consider becoming a priest but I have already told that story ! There was a large, very reputed company in Allahabad that manufactured Torches and batteries so I joined as an Administrative Assistant – was probably the youngest in a company of around 3000 employees. I will admit that it did help, that my mother was a friend of the Personal Assistant( a lovely lady ) to the owner, who put in a kind word for me and after a brief interview I was appointed as a Junior Assistant in the Administration department. My first interview was a breeze and went something like this. Miss C. – Come in – sit down – So Michael , how is your dear mother- please give her my regards and tell her I have not heard from her for ages? Me – Thank you aunty - she is well. I will tell her Miss C- If you get this job you will not call me aunty! Me – Ok sorry aunty! Miss C- Are you a hard-working boy? Me – Yes, I am (Smiling) Miss C – Do you know how to use a typewriter? (Remember no computers back then ) Me – Yes (I was learning and my speed was 35wpm) Miss C – Do you have a bicycle to ride to work? Me – Yes Miss C – Ok I think you are suitable – come to the office tomorrow. And so, I joined on the princely sum of four hundred and seventy-five rupees a month. If you were never late and never took leave, you got an additional fifteen rupees as a regularity bonus! I was trained in all departments of the company – Purchase, Finance, General Administration, Sales, Marketing, Procurement, and the like. It was a terrific learning experience which has stood me in good stead. Within six months I had probably proved that I had it in me to work hard and smart & I was promoted to the position of Assistant and attached directly to the Additional General Manager. While I was thrilled, others told me in no uncertain terms that it would be like working for the devil. He was a known hard task master; he arrived early and left the office after all the others. He made people work on weekends. I also gathered that two others, in this very post, had left within a year, apparently unable to bear the workload and his volatile temper which incidentally he was known to lose at the drop of a hat. Mr N was a tall, big made man with a booming voice, who made doubly sure that his presence was felt. His arrival in office every morning was met with a scurry of anxious activity - people vanishing from the corridors, silence when he passed by, peons running to fetch his files and other paraphernalia, his typist rushing to greet him etc . He sure knew how to announce his arrival. He was a retired Income tax professional and had been very high up in the hierarchy of the Tax department. I was quite chuffed that I had been given an office which I shared with the typist attached to him – we also had a peon which was a luxury in those days. I was also given a phone on my table – I was over the moon, especially when I saw so many others in large common offices with just a table and chair to their name. I will admit that it caused a certain amount of heartburn among colleagues, but I was young and raring to go so I scoffed at the snide remarks. Oh yes – I even had my name on the wall outside the office ! My job was to render Administrative support – so I arranged transport, got bills paid, visited the Municipality and Electricity departments in the city, booked train tickets, kept a tab on his bank statements etc . He also had shares in a large no of companies, so I had to follow up to see that the share certificates had been received and deposited in the bank and credited. It also called for a large amount of correspondence with these companies, so I learnt to type short letters as well. I was also quite happy that I was permitted to dictate letters to the typist – a pretty young lady who was around my age (that is another story) . I cycled all over to get the various jobs done and quite enjoyed the freedom – I would often go home for lunch too and that was a bonus. When I visited some offices for the first time, I would be permitted to give out a few torches and that helped me get the job done. So back to the boss and my first real tough experience of the workplace. It happened one afternoon. Mr N worked on a large number of legal matters for the company and probably a case had not gone as planned so he returned from the court at around two and everyone who saw him strut in said he was furious like never before . His driver confirmed the ominous news. I had, over the first few weeks seen him lose his temper but it was nothing that I could not handle – I often wondered what all the fuss was about. That afternoon I was about to learn the truth. Soon I was summoned over the two-way intercom to his office. I usually entered from a side door and when I did, I sensed imminent danger. There was a large no of files open on the massive table – a half drunk cup of coffee and a few biscuits lay unattended , his tie lose around his neck, his white hair dishevelled and he was scowling and muttering to himself . I stood in silence at the side of the very large table and waited for instructions. While I did , he talked on the phone and yelled at someone on the other end of the line – he banged the phone down after the call and almost smashed the instrument , he rang the bell in frustration and had two peons running in , in panic. He barked instruction to them, and they scurried off – all the while I was waiting! A few more tense minutes elapsed and then he looked up and shouted at me, asking me what I was doing there and why I was staring ! When I informed him that he had sent for me he looked incredulous and angry at the same time. He had obviously forgotten what he had summoned me for, so rather than admit the same, he picked up a few files and flung them in my direction while muttering words like “useless, fed up , disgusting” under his breath . The files and all their papers flew in my direction and landed near my feet. Something within me told me not to pick them up so I stepped out, called the peon, and requested him to come in and do the needful. As Mr N was on the phone again- I left and went back to my office. Do not get me wrong- I was literally shaking in fear but somehow, I didn’t show it. Thereafter, silence prevailed in the department and everyone tip toed around on eggshells. Soon it was five in the evening and people packed up and left, save the peon, the driver and me. Usually I would go and inform him that I was leaving but that day I was terrified to even do that, so the old peon and I sat wondering what to do next. An hour passed and it was then around six pm. Then I heard the buzz of the intercom – no voice, just the incessant buzzing – it meant “come to the office” Taking my notebook, I rushed there. Entering timidly, I was shocked to see Mr N beaming. He beckoned to a chair and asked me to sit down. He then asked me about the work I had done that day concerning his shares . I have always been very methodical, so I showed him all the work and gave him the list for the day. He was a smart man and he knew that everyone was dead scared of him. He suddenly burst out laughing – it was a booming laughter which could be heard down the corridor. He asked me, in a rather serious tone, as to why I had not picked up the files he had thrown. Seriously I was stumped for words. He then said something that surprised me, and I can almost quote him verbatim “You are the first person who has not picked up the files I have thrown and you did not shed a tear- smart boy” He guffawed & I was shocked and rather taken aback, not knowing if that was the end of my job in the company. He then seemed calm – he apologised and said he was just very upset as the company had lost a big case that day. He also added that I should never be afraid of him again. He went on to talk about Leadership and that evening I learnt some very valuable lessons that I have never forgotten. He admitted that losing his temper was very wrong- a weak facet of his personality & how, despite his age, he was working on it.( He was 75 years old ) He seemed to be a soft and gentle giant within. Suddenly, my entire perception of Mr N changed - I saw in him a good, hard working, highly intelligent man. He loved the company and it was his life. He took no holidays, worked on weekends and till late every night. He accomplished a lot, was an asset to the company and saved lakhs of rupees for the owner. I then thought back at how, very often, I had seen the Managing Director and the owner going to his office to speak to him rather than summoning him to theirs. It said a lot about his standing in the company.Yes, he had a volatile temper but there is one thing I remember – he never held a grudge. I worked for a year and a half in this company and his tantrums lessened. I still carry good memories. I learned to work with people twice my age & with all castes, creeds, and religions, very peacefully. I learned to stand up for myself and get a point across through dialogue and discussion. Being so young had its advantages but there were those who did try bullying tactics – and I learned after a few hard knocks, that if you stand up to a bully, he or she usually backs off. I learned to be diplomatic and to hold my peace when necessary. I learned the art of correspondence. Above all, I think the biggest take away was that the job did wonders for my confidence and really set me up for life – have never looked back.

My first job

In the course of my job, over the years, I have had the opportunity to interact with countless hard-working individuals, some inevitable dodgers, innumerable managers and a few exceptional leaders. These have not all been in the education field. I will not take names, so a resemblance to anyone living or dead is purely coincidental. This is about my first job. Let me start at the very beginning. I started working at a very early age – and studying full time simultaneously - needed to. Before I ventured into teaching, I was kind of in a quandary as to what I should do. I did seriously consider becoming a priest but I have already told that story ! There was a large, very reputed company in Allahabad that manufactured Torches and batteries so I joined as an Administrative Assistant – was probably the youngest in a company of around 3000 employees. I will admit that it did help, that my mother was a friend of the Personal Assistant( a lovely lady ) to the owner, who put in a kind word for me and after a brief interview I was appointed as a Junior Assistant in the Administration department. My first interview was a breeze and went something like this. Miss C. – Come in – sit down – So Michael , how is your dear mother- please give her my regards and tell her I have not heard from her for ages? Me – Thank you aunty - she is well. I will tell her Miss C- If you get this job you will not call me aunty! Me – Ok sorry aunty! Miss C- Are you a hard-working boy? Me – Yes, I am (Smiling) Miss C – Do you know how to use a typewriter? (Remember no computers back then ) Me – Yes (I was learning and my speed was 35wpm) Miss C – Do you have a bicycle to ride to work? Me – Yes Miss C – Ok I think you are suitable – come to the office tomorrow. And so, I joined on the princely sum of four hundred and seventy-five rupees a month. If you were never late and never took leave, you got an additional fifteen rupees as a regularity bonus! I was trained in all departments of the company – Purchase, Finance, General Administration, Sales, Marketing, Procurement, and the like. It was a terrific learning experience which has stood me in good stead. Within six months I had probably proved that I had it in me to work hard and smart & I was promoted to the position of Assistant and attached directly to the Additional General Manager. While I was thrilled, others told me in no uncertain terms that it would be like working for the devil. He was a known hard task master; he arrived early and left the office after all the others. He made people work on weekends. I also gathered that two others, in this very post, had left within a year, apparently unable to bear the workload and his volatile temper which incidentally he was known to lose at the drop of a hat. Mr N was a tall, big made man with a booming voice, who made doubly sure that his presence was felt. His arrival in office every morning was met with a scurry of anxious activity - people vanishing from the corridors, silence when he passed by, peons running to fetch his files and other paraphernalia, his typist rushing to greet him etc . He sure knew how to announce his arrival. He was a retired Income tax professional and had been very high up in the hierarchy of the Tax department. I was quite chuffed that I had been given an office which I shared with the typist attached to him – we also had a peon which was a luxury in those days. I was also given a phone on my table – I was over the moon, especially when I saw so many others in large common offices with just a table and chair to their name. I will admit that it caused a certain amount of heartburn among colleagues, but I was young and raring to go so I scoffed at the snide remarks. Oh yes – I even had my name on the wall outside the office ! My job was to render Administrative support – so I arranged transport, got bills paid, visited the Municipality and Electricity departments in the city, booked train tickets, kept a tab on his bank statements etc . He also had shares in a large no of companies, so I had to follow up to see that the share certificates had been received and deposited in the bank and credited. It also called for a large amount of correspondence with these companies, so I learnt to type short letters as well. I was also quite happy that I was permitted to dictate letters to the typist – a pretty young lady who was around my age (that is another story) . I cycled all over to get the various jobs done and quite enjoyed the freedom – I would often go home for lunch too and that was a bonus. When I visited some offices for the first time, I would be permitted to give out a few torches and that helped me get the job done. So back to the boss and my first real tough experience of the workplace. It happened one afternoon. Mr N worked on a large number of legal matters for the company and probably a case had not gone as planned so he returned from the court at around two and everyone who saw him strut in said he was furious like never before . His driver confirmed the ominous news. I had, over the first few weeks seen him lose his temper but it was nothing that I could not handle – I often wondered what all the fuss was about. That afternoon I was about to learn the truth. Soon I was summoned over the two-way intercom to his office. I usually entered from a side door and when I did, I sensed imminent danger. There was a large no of files open on the massive table – a half drunk cup of coffee and a few biscuits lay unattended , his tie lose around his neck, his white hair dishevelled and he was scowling and muttering to himself . I stood in silence at the side of the very large table and waited for instructions. While I did , he talked on the phone and yelled at someone on the other end of the line – he banged the phone down after the call and almost smashed the instrument , he rang the bell in frustration and had two peons running in , in panic. He barked instruction to them, and they scurried off – all the while I was waiting! A few more tense minutes elapsed and then he looked up and shouted at me, asking me what I was doing there and why I was staring ! When I informed him that he had sent for me he looked incredulous and angry at the same time. He had obviously forgotten what he had summoned me for, so rather than admit the same, he picked up a few files and flung them in my direction while muttering words like “useless, fed up , disgusting” under his breath . The files and all their papers flew in my direction and landed near my feet. Something within me told me not to pick them up so I stepped out, called the peon, and requested him to come in and do the needful. As Mr N was on the phone again- I left and went back to my office. Do not get me wrong- I was literally shaking in fear but somehow, I didn’t show it. Thereafter, silence prevailed in the department and everyone tip toed around on eggshells. Soon it was five in the evening and people packed up and left, save the peon, the driver and me. Usually I would go and inform him that I was leaving but that day I was terrified to even do that, so the old peon and I sat wondering what to do next. An hour passed and it was then around six pm. Then I heard the buzz of the intercom – no voice, just the incessant buzzing – it meant “come to the office” Taking my notebook, I rushed there. Entering timidly, I was shocked to see Mr N beaming. He beckoned to a chair and asked me to sit down. He then asked me about the work I had done that day concerning his shares . I have always been very methodical, so I showed him all the work and gave him the list for the day. He was a smart man and he knew that everyone was dead scared of him. He suddenly burst out laughing – it was a booming laughter which could be heard down the corridor. He asked me, in a rather serious tone, as to why I had not picked up the files he had thrown. Seriously I was stumped for words. He then said something that surprised me, and I can almost quote him verbatim “You are the first person who has not picked up the files I have thrown and you did not shed a tear- smart boy” He guffawed & I was shocked and rather taken aback, not knowing if that was the end of my job in the company. He then seemed calm – he apologised and said he was just very upset as the company had lost a big case that day. He also added that I should never be afraid of him again. He went on to talk about Leadership and that evening I learnt some very valuable lessons that I have never forgotten. He admitted that losing his temper was very wrong- a weak facet of his personality & how, despite his age, he was working on it.( He was 75 years old ) He seemed to be a soft and gentle giant within. Suddenly, my entire perception of Mr N changed - I saw in him a good, hard working, highly intelligent man. He loved the company and it was his life. He took no holidays, worked on weekends and till late every night. He accomplished a lot, was an asset to the company and saved lakhs of rupees for the owner. I then thought back at how, very often, I had seen the Managing Director and the owner going to his office to speak to him rather than summoning him to theirs. It said a lot about his standing in the company.Yes, he had a volatile temper but there is one thing I remember – he never held a grudge. I worked for a year and a half in this company and his tantrums lessened. I still carry good memories. I learned to work with people twice my age & with all castes, creeds, and religions, very peacefully. I learned to stand up for myself and get a point across through dialogue and discussion. Being so young had its advantages but there were those who did try bullying tactics – and I learned after a few hard knocks, that if you stand up to a bully, he or she usually backs off. I learned to be diplomatic and to hold my peace when necessary. I learned the art of correspondence. Above all, I think the biggest take away was that the job did wonders for my confidence and really set me up for life – have never looked back.

Friday, 26 June 2020

My attempt at Wadi Bashing

MY ATTEMPT AT WADI BASHING The lockdown has been getting to me – I had been stuck inside the house for the last few months – not going to work – not going shopping – not going to church – no more mall strolling -no more visits to our favourite Marks and Spencer! I was going crazy. I had stifled the impulse to make a break for it and just go out and to hell with everything else – however, better sense had prevailed. Better to be, as they say – six feet apart (or more) than six feet under. And then- the authorities had said “stay home” so who was I to break the rules and all that …… So yesterday – yes just yesterday, the entire lockdown was lifted, and I decided this was it. Enough of being stuck at home. I guessed that even my poor vehicle was getting bored. So, I did what I had contemplated doing for the last month or so – phoned a good friend at around two pm and asked him if he would like to go for a long drive at around four. He is quite the adventurous type and it did not take much convincing. He was up for it. (Thank you- Neville and Susan Darukhanawala for planting this seed in my head). You are always planting something or the other. So, leaving the wives back home to cook dinner, we set off down the winding mountain road to Fujairah. I had traversed this road umpteen times so knew it like the back of my hand. It was an exhilarating drive to say the very least – great car, smooth road, sun roof open , cool breeze ,not much traffic ,good company , music blaring – oh for the wide open spaces . A sudden madness overcame us as we were on the road – why don’t we try some ‘wadi bashing’ ? Now I had heard about this – had a faint idea what it was about but had never tried it before. I guess I am not the adventurous type. Maybe scared of getting lost? Got lost as a kid once - but that is another story. If you are in the Middle east or have visited one of the countries here, you would, most probably have had one of these experiences. Everyone has been wadi bashing except me! Today was the day thought I! For the uninitiated, Wadi bashing is an experience to cherish and they say, you must do it at least once. So listen to what Google says …. d “A Wadi is a dried up river bed, that exposes the natural sediment of the seasonal flowing water including rocks, tree stumps, small pools of water and mud. The seasonal flow of water and floods, as with all rivers, carves a course through rocky terrains in its bid to travel through the valley. This has been happening for thousands of years, so the process is never ending and will obviously widen and deepen and change the Wadi’s look and feel each time the process happens.” For successful wadi-bashing, you need a four-wheel drive and I was sure my Land Cruiser was up to it”. Pulling out the throttle, you race along the wadis, making a run at the dunes. Some dunes are pretty enormous & can dwarf a three-story building. Lying between them are the wadis, old water courses-extremely dry and parched for most of the year. When it rains , they flood, and men and animals parched for water have drowned in the fast flowing water The bashing isn’t when you hit the wadis but when you top the dunes, a bone-jarring experience. I was a trifle apprehensive but decided that the adventure was worth it. Turning off the road and with a little help from my trusted GPS, we were soon off the main highway and “somewhere in the desert”. The area was obviously deserted, the road rough and sloping and a trifle disconcerting. It was around five in the evening and with a few hours of daylight remaining, we were sure we would have our little adventure and get back home to a yummy dinner by around nine. Oh, to be out of the house. Started imagining I was a carefree bachelor! Soon we were face to face with a lovely little stream. Cool flowing water beckoned and seeing another few vehicle there, we stopped to take in the scenery and to obviously click some Instagram able worthy photographs! We took off our shoes, waded into the water, splashed around, chatted with the people there – plenty of laughter etc. Not one to reject a hot cup of tea – we were delighted to be offered tea and snacks from people we had met just fifteen minutes ago. That is Dubai for you. We were having a swell time. One by one the others campers left, while we went around the area clicking snaps of the setting sun, I have often imagined myself as some sort of a photographer- just wishful thinking! By around seven we decided to start the journey back, so getting into the vehicle and full of energy after the refreshing evening, we set off. Strangely in the dusk, the whole terrain suddenly looked very different. My GPS was going around in circles and somehow there was no signal. The same with our phones. Should we be worried – no. We set off climbing up the trail- it was a slow bumpy drive but comparatively safe. After around a kilometer or so, we realized that we had emerged on to flat land but had somehow mysteriously gone deeper into the desert . It was now pitch black and the only light was that of the headlights of my car. The land around was rocky with a few tumbleweeds and rough tracks before me. The arid smell of the dry baked earth coupled with the grit in my mouth did nothing to make me feel confident. It did not help that our phones were still dead. I did not know whether I was imagining it, but I hoped I was not getting dehydrated as our supply of water got over a little after we reached earlier in the evening, and we had not had a sip for the last few hours. I guess that is what inexperience does. We had not planned this well enough. Both of us were so confused and began arguing as to whose fault this was. It seemed silly to be arguing in such a situation but when you are hungry, thirsty, lost and its pitch black, arguments are bound to happen. Did I mention that I was the only one who could drive? I was racked by an insatiable thirst. This was bad and getting worse. Was I trembling? Then just before I passed out, I woke – reached for the bottle near my bedside – drank a few large sips – turned over and went to sleep again No more wadi bashing for me.