Prakash Iyer- MD, Kimberly Clark @ SOM

Mr. Prakash Iyer, MD of Kimberly Clark lever Limited gave his session on "The Habit of winning". He shared his ideas through stories which he said is the best way, as it would linger in our memory for a longer time. While he spoke about his career, he mentioned that he started off with Hindustan Unilever limited. During those days, Mr. Iyer had the opportunity to work with end dealers and consumers which he believes gave him a chance to understand their point of view. He quoted many examples both from his own personal experience and from other’s experience to illustrate the characteristics which can be found in general, in successful people.

Further, he gave the example of the experience of flying a kite to convey that the most difficult part of it is its beginning phase. He compared it with life saying that even in life, it is difficult to start something. He took the example of Sachin Tendulkar to explain the drive and the motivation a person needs to achieve success in his life. He also mentioned the example of Karoly Takacs, a Hungarian Olympic shooter, who in spite of having lost his shooting arm to an accident won two Olympic gold medals after training with his other arm. He spoke about the need to be quick in taking smart actions when needed. He did this by mentioning a young employee of Pepsi who placed a witty hoarding to promote Pepsi on his own. 

Mr. Iyer emphasized the importance of staying focused and asked us to choose a goal and follow it with all our heart rather than being unfocused and not being able to make progress in any of our ventures. He talked about Tensing Norgay and Edmund Hillary, who were the first to climb Mount Everest. He listed out characteristics of theirs, like perseverance, trust, confidence to name a few, which he believes that everyone who wishes to succeed should possess.  He also pointed out one of the most common attribute that can be found among people is a lack of action. He explained that while most of us decide to do a lot of things on a daily basis, we fail to put that thought into action. He stressed the importance of converting our decisions into action.

The session ended with the students asking questions to clear their doubts regarding the attitude that is required to approach their life and to win in it. Later, Mr. Prakash Iyer gave signed copies of his book, “The Habit of Winning“, to eager students.

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Vanathi

Class of 2014

M.Mgmt

SJMSOM