Feedback Times
A Leadership Lesson I Learned in 2005 — And Still Live By Today
Back in 2005, while heading Operations for the North & East regions of an MNC Bank in New Delhi, the private banking landscape in India was exploding. With new players like Axis Bank, HDFC Bank, ICICI, and Yes Bank entering the scene, opportunities for trained banking professionals were at an all-time high.
One day, I received a call from the Head of HR of a newly formed Financial company. He was seeking feedback on an officer who was working with me. After the usual questions on job knowledge, competence, ethics, and attitude—and rating her across several parameters—he asked me a final question:
“If you were ever to start your own company, would you hire her?”
Without hesitation, I said, “No.”
Surprised, he immediately asked why—especially after I had spoken so highly of her.
My answer left him speechless:
“I wouldn’t hire her.
Rather, I would invite her to be a partner.”
A brief silence. Then he asked me if I had a vacancy in HR reporting to me.
My takeaway?
When you vouch for someone, do it wholeheartedly.
Don’t dilute your praise.
Don’t hold back.
Say what you truly believe.
When you’re in a position to evaluate someone, you have the power to shape their destiny.
Use that power responsibly. Be fair.
Be authentic.