Lessons from the Leaders

04.01.24 07:13 AM - Comment(s) - By Hari Bharadwaj

Does it Makes sense to go through the ranks or take the hot seat straightaway?

When Rishad Premji joined as GM, subsequently played various roles before becoming CEO & Chairman, I thought it’s a fabulous idea for an executive to go through the journey before heading an organisation in spite of his father being the majority stake holder who could have made him CEO directly, in my own case having spent couple of decades in corporate world and then becoming an entrepreneur made me experience REAL world more graciously and made me more resilient.

Having a mix of corporate & entrepreneurial experience can be highly valuable which provides individuals with a well-rounded perspective on the business world. It offers a unique blend of expertise & skills that can contribute to both personal and professional growth.

Here are some benefits of having a combination of corporate & entrepreneurial experience coming from own & experiences from others :

1.    Adaptability: Individuals with a mix of corporate and entrepreneurial experience tend to be highly adaptable. They have experienced different work environments, cultures, and structures, enabling them to navigate various business scenarios effectively. This adaptability is crucial in an ever-changing business landscape & challenges comes along being an entrepreneur.

2.    Risk-taking & Innovation: Entrepreneurial experience cultivates an appetite for calculated risk-taking and innovation. Entrepreneurs often thrive by identifying new opportunities, taking bold steps, and thinking creatively. This mindset can be valuable in corporate settings, where individuals can bring fresh ideas, challenge the status quo, and drive innovation within established structures.

3.    Problem-solving Skills: Both corporate and entrepreneurial environments present unique challenges that require problem-solving skills. Corporate experience can provide individuals with exposure to complex organizational issues, while entrepreneurial experience hones their ability to identify and overcome obstacles independently. This combination of skills enhances their problem-solving capabilities across different contexts.

4.    Decision-making and Leadership: Balancing corporate and entrepreneurial experience can develop strong decision-making and leadership abilities. Corporate experience allows individuals to understand hierarchical structures, navigate complex decision-making processes, and exercise leadership within established frameworks. Entrepreneurial experience, on the other hand, fosters a sense of autonomy, accountability, and the ability to make quick decisions in dynamic environments.

As this topic is very close to my heart, I will continue my observations in my next post as well...to be continued

What are you thoughts?