Why Building Strong Reading Habits Can Make or Break Your Management Career

READING HABITS: They matter a lot

Many aspiring managers come to me to learn what they should do to improve their expression, especially concerning English. They are concerned about their vocabulary, or rather the lack thereof. In line with today's trend of instant everything, they ask if there is an instant remedy. They want to improve, yet they seek shortcuts. The fact remains that there is no substitute for old-fashioned hard work. Sadly, hard work is considered old-fashioned and is supposedly replaced by smart work, whatever that means.

All other factors being constant, such as qualifications and age, the differentiating factor that often tips the balance in favor of a young person is their awareness of things around them. A person who can engage in discussions and impress with insightful perspectives on the relevant events distinguishes themselves and succeeds. This process doesn't end there; instead, it intensifies in delivering results aligned with management objectives.

One of the key components in becoming a capable manager is developing reading habits. Successful individuals somehow find time to read despite their busy schedules. Reading and the knowledge gained from it can form a strong foundation for personal growth. On the flip side, those who are stagnant are often non-readers. Those who claim they have no time for reading likely understand deep down that they are not making sense. To justify their stance, they may cite successful examples of non-readers they know. While it may be possible to succeed with minimal or no reading, I believe it is the exception that proves the rule. Moreover, I am certain that if these exceptional individuals were to read, they would achieve far more than their current levels of success.

It's never too late to start reading. Initially, reading can be random or focused. One can start with their native language or English. Each language holds a treasure trove within its books. One can begin with books like the well-known Chandamama (available in almost all Indian languages), Famous Five, Nancy Drew, Enid Blyton, and other easy-to-read books. Such books, adored by children in every region and language, play a crucial role in cultivating reading habits with the support of parents and teachers.

Teenagers can explore newspapers, sports sections, fiction, autobiographies, and periodicals like India Today, Frontline, Outlook, and Reader's Digest. It's advisable to consistently read the same magazines and newspapers for at least two years to grasp writing styles and expressions. The same principle applies to reading fiction; for instance, if you start with Arthur Hailey, you should read all his books to gain insights into various industries and activities. These authors are exceptional storytellers, and their books offer a wealth of knowledge to readers.

Continuing with serious reading, one progresses to non-fiction, reference books, and even more advanced textbooks. Additionally, authors writing on motivation, self-development, and related subjects have further enriched the field. Young individuals on the path to success must read works by authors like Dale Carnegie, Zig Ziglar, John C. Maxwell, Norman Vincent Peale, Robert Schuller, Shiv Khera, and many others listed in the text.

In today's age, information is readily available on the internet, complementing traditional print materials. Whether one reads printed matter or e-books and periodicals, the key is to read sincerely and purposefully. Personally, I prefer buying physical books and periodicals for reading. Regardless of the medium chosen, the goal should be to become well-read, with visible improvements in the quality of responses and how seriously one is taken by peers.

Distinguishing a reader from a non-reader is often based on the depth of knowledge and ease of expression.

The author is The Dean (Training and Placement) at LTJSS NAGPUR

Rajendra Chandorkar

Aabha, 53 Vasant Nagar,

Nagpur: 440022

Cell: 09423102543

Email: chandorkar.rajendra@gmail.com

I guess reading doesn't matter a lot... thus no replies/comments to this mail. Rajendra, I do agree with you; reading skills should be inculcated in an individual in the initial years itself. Nowadays, very few schools/homes encourage this habit. Library hours are used for other subjects, at home TV watching is encouraged by the parents. Teachers themselves (English language also) wouldn't have read books beyond the prescribed texts. English coaching institutes advertise courses that help you develop fluency in a language which you have no idea about within 3 months!

As you say, there is no quick-fix solution; it takes time and effort.

As a young officer in the Army, we were required to read three books and then write book reviews of them, which would be reviewed by the Commanding Officer each year. After that, we had to give a brief talk to our peers about the books. Looking back, there were immense benefits from these actions that helped cultivate a great reading habit and also improved one's written expressions.

Maybe we need to introduce similar ideas in schools and colleges.

Col. K. Srinivas

As a young officer in the Army, every year we were required to read three books and then write book reviews of them, which would be reviewed by the Commanding Officer. After that, we had to give a small talk to our peers about the books. Looking back, there were immense benefits to such actions that helped cultivate a great habit of reading and also improve one's written expressions.

Perhaps we need to introduce similar ideas in schools and colleges.

Col. K. Srinivas

Mr. Chandorkar, Col. Srinivas, and Lisa,

I agree with you wholeheartedly because I see young people, and some older people who consider themselves to be 'hip and happening' just because they have landed a big moneyed job/title in a company, to NOT be very good at conversation. Conversation, good conversation, meaningful conversation, attitude-changing conversation comes from those who read - be they books - fiction/non-fiction; magazines - any (and not just the 'filmy ones, which those above mentioned seem to be able to converse in); newspapers - different sections (and not just page 3, cartoons).

Col. Srinivas, I had heard that in the Army officers were asked to do book reports, and it made me feel good.

An early habit of such reading inculcates so much more than just conversation - it opens up horizons, enlightens one's mind. Having had the privilege of studying both abroad and in India - it used to dishearten me when we in India did not do any book reports, and the library classes ended up being an 'off period' to engage in gossip, games, etc.

As a trainer, I DO ask each of my trainees to read because it will enrich not only their language of expression but them in turn too... but alas like Col. Srinivas, Lisa, and Mr. Chandorkar - I really think 'reading' needs to be introduced into the classrooms at school levels and not just for the students, but for the teachers themselves who may be in the grind of things don't read either.

And sadly... reading books, magazines, newspapers is NOT considered a 'cool' thing by youngsters these days, a hallmark sign of a nerd, and thus uncool.

Dispiritedly....

Richa Joshi

Dear all,

It was a pleasure to receive your comments. The idea that it takes a special effort to read, write, and speak any language is a thing of the past. Mistakes are more acceptable. It is a sad state of affairs, and it seems that nobody is bothered except a very selected few.

Regards,
Rajendra