Thus, the uncertainty continues. In my conversations with other CEOs, its effects on every aspect of work are undeniable. I’ve also sensed a refrain around two emerging constituencies: skittish clients and fragile employees. If you’re the person in charge, your brain (and calendar) feel torn between these competing priorities.
Whither grow revenues or manage our teams? As I’ve grappled with the answer myself, I recalled a controversial business philosophy emanating from India in the mid-2000s, where I happened to be working as a first-time manager in a news outlet. A large software company, HCL Technologies, made regular headlines by upending traditional sales and outsourcing strategy (think “The customer is always right”) by declaring its management philosophy to be “employees first, customers second.” Eventually, CEO Vineet Nayar publishedno