14 May 2010

Interview: The 15x15 Grill

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·       What is your job like?
As trite as it may sound, I don't have a job, I have a passion that I am driven by. My work as the Managing Director of Candid Marketing is primarily that of developing our people into outstanding leaders and helping our clients build their brands, both of which are integral to my own growth.

·       What does your secretary think about you?
She thinks I am particular to the point of being psychotic, but I have always believed that god is in the details !

·       What’s the smartest business Idea you have ever had?
The idea that smart business ideas are just the starting point and what matters far more is EXECUTION. Not really my own idea but one that I strongly believe in because I have seen enough examples around me of great ideas falling at the altar of poor execution.

·       And the most embarrassing?
The idea that (some) clients would be willing to supersede their personal individual benefit for the growth of their brand. Unfortunately I have to face this fairly regularly.

·       Who has been your biggest influence?
My parents, I learnt the importance of integrity and belief in god from them. Keeps me grounded every day of my life.

·       How important Is money to you?
Money allows me to do things I enjoy, which in turn allows me to make more of myself and contribute to others' lives. The circle feeds off itself.

·       What is your most important work ethic or maxim that you practice everyday?
The harder I work, the luckier I get.

·       Has your personal life suffered due to work?
On the contrary, my personal life has always benefited from my work. I find that my personal relationships are at their healthiest when I am happiest at my work and vice versa.

·       How do you want to be remembered by your colleagues?
Sometimes, its just enough that you're remembered by your colleagues! On a serious note, I would like to be remembered as someone who added value to their lives professionally and personally and helped them to become better human beings and grow.

·       What time do you start and finish work?
The business we're in means that our time doesn't belong to us, it belongs to our clients. Having said that, I try to start work at 9 (unless I've watched a Football game the night before) and try and wrap up the work day at about 7.

·       What Is the most valuable memento in your office?
2 actually, My IIM Bangalore Degree and Cannes Lions Certificate of Honour on the wall.

·       Does retirement scare you?
Not really, because I look forward to watching a lot more football and coaching young kids. I can’t wait to be able to do that. 

·       Have you ever been tempted to start out on your own?
Very much so, gave in to the temptation even before Day 1 of my career.

·       What do you hate the most at work?
People with bad attitude who stand in the way of their own growth.

·       How do you unwind?  
I play football to unwind. Green grass under your feet and an area 50 yards by 100 yards, you can run but you cannot hide. Nothing more exhilarating than that.