“Leadership is a process by which a person influences others to accomplish an objective and directs the organisation in a way that makes it more cohesive and coherent,” said R.K. Vasan, specialist for US Customs and Border Protection, US Embassy, New Delhi. He was addressing students of Taxila Business School, Jaipur. The campus interface with the corporate world programme was held by Business Line Club in association with Cairn India — the fastest growing energy company in the world.
Vasan enlightened the students on the attributes of an effective leader, namely, knowing the self and seeking self-improvement, being technically proficient, seeking responsibilities and, more importantly, taking responsibility for one’s actions, making sound and timely decisions and always leading by example.
He suggested that to improve leadership skills one must reflect, identify skills required to lead effectively, create an action plan, ask for feedback from colleagues, managers, tutors, practice by taking responsibilities and analysing performance, find the mentor to guide and attend training sessions to further hone oneself.
While emphasising personal characteristics of a leader, such as honesty, competence, candour, commitment, integrity, courage, imagination and straightforwardness, Vasan said a leader was one who could be trusted and respected by all.