Karnataka Election: Leadership lessons for All

The democracy has its own flavor, although I’m not a big fan of following the election and my political acumen is as bad any corporate employee. Interestingly, Karnataka election was far different than most! One can make a wonderful movie out of it, the results were divided among three parties, suddenly all the parties started playing their own cards. From the resort politics to hiding representatives in hotels to flying them to Hyderabad. 

Well there isn’t a thing left out to do, the so-called flower lovers flying down from all parts of India to the loyal fans of HAND making sure that they don’t lose their MLA’s to opposite party. Out of all these dramas one man made the most and lucky charm on his head shining bright and clear.

But what amazed me most, why people of Karnataka did not believe all the Bhagya’s which was offered by former Chief minister. why did Siddu did not hit Six this time around? Let us explore

To make sure that I’m not targeted by either flower followers or loyal hands I have specifically not mentioned any of the events. I am trying to be a politician and a diplomat here.

Humility:

We understand that power can make man arrogant (even a woman) but with power one must understand there comes lot of responsibility. What you say and how say it matters a lot? There were instances where our former chief minister behaved inappropriately. People who render you power can take away in blink of an eye. As a leader it is imperative and critical that you carry utmost Humility in the worst of the situations and control your emotions.

Purpose:

Leadership is all about taking people along walking with them and for them. The purpose for where and why you are walking becomes very critical, one must take firm stand when things impact people. As a leader you cannot solve all the problems but sometimes a listening ear and standing firm with the people makes all the difference. Most of the people in North Karnataka felt that they were never heard by our former CM. Organization fail to move towards a purpose and vision because there is a percentage of employees always feel left out.

Team :

When I say a team, I mean keeping people together as one and all. You cannot divide and rule, those were old tricks of the trade, but people are smart these days. They are far more educated, information is readily available on finger tips. The recent development in Karnataka pertaining to one caste was ridiculous and impacted many including others who are even part of it. Many of the organization can learn how incentive policy for one set of employees demotivates others. It also a classical example for those leaders who believe that only incentives and freebies motivate the employees.

One thing is very clear from this election that, giving free meals now a thing of a past. And leadership is not of giving free meals but empowering them with right skills and competencies to create and earn a better meal.  Signing off with the thought “leaders flourish in the worst situation and in the best”.