Organizational culture encompasses the shared values, beliefs, and behaviours that characterize a particular organization. It shapes how employees interact with each other, make decisions, and approach their work.
In a company run by a lion, a hardworking ant thrived until a cockroach was appointed as its supervisor, bringing in unnecessary bureaucracy. Although there were initial gains, the ant soon felt overwhelmed and became less productive. Eventually, an owl consultant suggested downsizing, resulting in the ant's termination. This story illustrates how excessive management, and red tape can hinder productivity and negatively impact even the most capable employees.
Recently, Narayana Murthy and S.N. Subrahmanyan sparked controversy by advocating for extended work hours, suggesting a 70- and 90-hour workweek, respectively. Their remarks highlight a disconnect between corporate leaders and employees enduring familial and logistical pressures. Critics argue that longer hours hinder productivity and well-being, advocating for work-life balance and a reassessment of corporate cultures to prioritize employee satisfaction and efficiency.
The office buzzed with nervous energy as news of the Zonal Manager’s visit sparked an overnight transformation—polished files, flawless slides, and a high-tea menu crowned by Yasin’s famous kebabs. Everything flowed smoothly until Sharmaji, too relaxed for his own good, mentioned the kebabs were made with buffalo meat. In an instant, smiles vanished, and the evening’s hard-won harmony collapsed.
In the business world, the debate rages on about whether people or processes are more crucial for success. While talented individuals are valuable, it's the processes that often determine the outcome. Examples such as the assembly line revolution and the NASA Challenger disaster underscore the vital role of well-designed processes in achieving success.
Anand, an Assistant Manager at a bank, struggled to say "no" at work, leading to overwhelm and burnout. After a wake-up call from his boss, he learned to prioritize, delegate, and set boundaries. Saying "no" empowered him to manage time and energy effectively, leading to a more fulfilling and balanced life.
The office hummed with morning activity as employees began their day. Unbeknownst to them, a tiger sought refuge in the washroom, unnoticed for four days. It went unnoticed until it seized and ate the Assistant General Manager, then the General Manager and Vice President. When it captured the tea boy, Chhotu, the office was thrown into chaos. Employees found the tiger and saved Chhotu, highlighting the overlooked importance of every role in the workplace.
The "Peeche Dekho, Aage Barho" principle, abbreviated as PDAB, emphasizes the importance of looking back to inform current decisions. By learning from the past, one can gain insight, avoid repeating mistakes, and approach challenges with wisdom. It's crucial to acknowledge past missteps, embrace lessons of history, and move forward with gratitude and openness.
