Name: Venkatakrishnan

Title: CEO & Co Founder

Organisation: The Future Wall

My professional journey began in sales, where I've spent the last decade navigating through various roles – from sales engagements to steering business development and management.

Presently, I'm deeply engaged in an exhilarating venture – The Future Wall. Our mission revolves around the creation of cutting-edge offline smart digital assets, available through subscription. Beyond the realm of business, this endeavor is a manifestation of a visionary concept taking concrete form. Join me on this exciting journey as we redefine possibilities in the digital landscape.

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!

I hope Venkatakrishnan's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

As a leader, the most challenging aspect is uniting a diverse group of individuals and driving them towards a common goal. Managing people from various age groups and with different characters makes it a complex task to align everyone towards a singular vision.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

Since the beginning of my career, I've envisioned myself as a leader. I consistently view situations from others' perspectives, making an effort to make inclusive decisions by seeking input from the team. Throughout my journey, I've been proactive in taking on leadership responsibilities, particularly in sales, where I've experimented with various methods to increase revenue, setting examples for others.

Post-COVID, my boss and mentor Mr.Krishnan recognized my growth and entrusted me with the responsibility of handling a pivotal business model shift. Having observed my career progression, he saw potential in me and offered me this significant opportunity.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

I've

I have developed a habit of rising early each morning and jotting down my tasks in order of priority. This practice is a game-changer for keeping my work organized. Whether it's my individual tasks or discussions in our team weekly meetings, I follow a straightforward approach inspired by something I learned – the LION method. It stands for Last update (recapping what happened recently), Issues, Opportunities, and Next follow-up. I make it a point to be the first person to arrive at the office and the first to leave on time. Mornings are dedicated to new business initiatives, while the afternoons are reserved for team discussions. At the end of the day, I review the tasks I set in the morning, providing feedback to ensure a well-planned agenda for the next day. This routine has proven effective in maintaining a structured and productive work life.

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

An important lesson i have learned on my journey

1.The significance of being a giver. My mentor instilled in me the principle of giving first. Regardless of the expectation of returns, the emphasis lies on being a person who prioritizes giving.

2.The pivotal role of your team and network. Surrounding yourself with quality individuals is paramount to building a successful business.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

I recommend The 5 Am Club by Robin Sharma. This book has been a game-changer for me, emphasizing the transformative impact of early mornings and a well-structured morning routine. Sharma's storytelling not only captivates but also imparts practical wisdom on achieving personal and professional success. It's a motivational compass that nudges you towards a disciplined and purposeful life. If you're seeking a guide to unlock your full potential and elevate your daily routine, this book is a must-read.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

Always open to learning and adaptive to changes

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

One poignant story that stands out from my leadership journey is the time we faced a significant challenge as a team. Our project was running into unexpected hurdles, and morale was starting to waver. Instead of solely focusing on finding a solution, I decided to gather the team for an open discussion.

During the meeting, team members shared their concerns, frustrations, and even innovative ideas that had yet to be considered. It turned into a collective brainstorming session where everyone felt heard and valued. We collectively addressed the issues, implemented some of the suggested solutions, and eventually overcame the challenges.

This experience taught me the power of collaboration, transparent communication, and the strength that comes from embracing the collective wisdom of a team. It emphasized that sometimes, the most meaningful solutions emerge when everyone is given a voice and is encouraged to contribute their unique perspectives.