The world of business is tough: ever-changing consumers; aggressive competitors; demanding regulators; evolving market dynamics; geopolitical developments, unforeseen black swan events and much more. In this context the role of business leaders and boards have become critical in helping guide and navigate the future – for the benefit of employees, investors, shareholders and the community at large.
But when compared with the complexity of leading a country – that too one that’s home to over a sixth of the world population - the role of corporate leaders seems far less complicated. That’s precisely why Company Directors and Board Members can learn from the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who has successfully led the world’s largest democracy for well over a decade, with grace, maturity and equanimity.
Eight lessons from PM Modi's approach
PM Modi has been one of the most studied political leaders globally because of his rise from humble beginnings - against all odds - to a global statesman. This on the back of his ability to build a strong personal brand, mobilize large constituencies and sustain relevance through difficult times – in a society as diverse and disruptive as India.
Business leaders – whether they admire him or not – can draw several lessons from his leadership style, and strategies.
* Spelling Out a Clear, Simple and Consistent Vision: His use of simple memorable slogans – Make in India; Digital India, Start-up India– that encapsulate complex policies. Leaders should distil strategy into simple, relatable messages that inspire action and create alignment.
* Direct Engagement with Stakeholders: His constant reach out to the people and bypassing of traditional media by using radio (Mann ki Baat); social media and digital platforms to speak directly to citizens. Also clear call to actions like Swacch Bharat, putting cleanliness on the national agenda. CEOs can occasionally bypass intermediaries and build trust by engaging directly with employees, customers and investors and being present on social media.
* Brand Building and Storytelling:PM Modi’s compelling personal narrative is built around the relatability and resilience of a small town chaiwala who worked his way to the top on the back of hard work, consistency and commitment. Leaders who open up, and share authentic stories about their personal and professional journey connect more deeply with employees, customers and stakeholders.
* Discipline and Work Ethic: The PM is well known for his dedicated work schedule, personal discipline, intense energy, passion and deep sense of commitment. Also his ability to shut out the ‘noise’ and move forward on issues he believes strongly in, at a time when every decision is dissected, evaluated and critiqued ad nauseam. A business leader’s personal example sets the tone for the organisations’ culture and employee motivation.
* Visible Leadership, Symbolism, and Narrative Control: Be it the Covid-19 pandemic or the Balakot strike, or more recently Operation Sindoor, PM Modi has always been at the forefront, communicating clearly with Indians on National TV framing narratives in a manner that emphasized resolve, sacrifice, and collective responsibility. On World Yoga Day or while celebrating key Indian wins he uses symbolism to reinforce cultural identity and global stature. Symbolic acts by leaders can shape organisation culture. During crises leading from the front in a manner that aligns stakeholder and maintaining trust is key. Mobilise with purpose.
* Taking Bold Decisions and Spelling Out Audacious Goals. Whether it was providing gas cylinders to rural households, or opening bank accounts, or electricity, toilets and drinking water to all – the PM never hesitated to spell out audacious goals – that often seemed unachievable. But the shared vision and focus managed to move the needle in a manner never done before. Not all may have got to 100% of the outcomes envisaged – but the ability to think the unthinkable made hundreds of millions of lives better. A lesson the best corporate leaders need to live by.
* Adaptability, Reinvention and Course-correction: From community service (pracharak), to party cadre (karyakarta), state leader to a national and then a global figure, Modi has adapted his narrative, style, and priorities for different stages of his career. He has also stayed flexible pulling back on pet policies that faced headwinds (land acquisition act; farm reforms). Leaders must constantly reinvent themselves and their organizations in response to changing markets and global dynamics and not hesitate to course-correct when things go wrong.
* Relentless Focus on Execution and Taking Tough Calls: The PM has remained steadfast on the speed and execution of important projects: GST, infrastructure projects, digital services roll out) and has not hesitated to drop Ministers who have underperformed – sending out a clear message. In the business world too, execution must remain paramount and discipline has to originate at the top. Deliver visible outcomes that reinforce credibility.
In a world where external developments are increasingly shaping economic and strategic landscapes, C-suite executives and Board directors could learn valuable leadership lessons from PM Modi, raising their influence, inspiring stakeholders and leaving a lasting legacy.
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