During Mark’s first month of college, the professor gave his students a pop quiz. He was a conscientious student and had breezed through the questions, until he read the last one: “What is the first name of the woman who cleans the school?” Surely this was some kind of joke. He had seen the cleaning woman several times. She was tall, dark-haired and in her 50s, but how would he know her name? He handed in his paper, leaving the last question blank.
Just before class ended, one student asked if the last question would count toward the quiz grade. “Absolutely,” said the professor. “In your careers, you will meet many people. All are significant. They each deserve your attention and care, even if all you do is smile and say ‘hello'”. Mark never forgot that lesson. He also learned her name was Dorothy.
Sooner or later, today or tomorrow, you’re going to become an Administrator. You will be handling hundreds of staff in your department. As a part of Indian Hierarchy system, subordinates look at the superiors in a parental figure. Because, you will be controlling huge resources, you will be taking key decisions, and you will be responsible for their career growth. But apart from all the above points they would like to see you as a kind hearted and generous human being. They see up to you not only for career advice but also for other personal concerns.
Hence, a key trait you must develop is to connect with your people. Try to touch their heart. Try to remember their names and wish them a simple good morning Mr.X, with a smile. That makes their day. Being an Aspirant, try to practice random acts of kindness with the people around you. Try to give one chocolate or any sweet to your Librarian, try saying thanks to the person who cleans up your study environment. Try developing a genuine concern towards the people. It will definitely reflect on your personality. While giving the interview, the panel will see your human side(empathy, kindness, compassion and love) of future Bureaucrat. More than anything, being human, we should practice humane values.
