Can Army and Corporate HR Practices Blend for Better Results? Share Your Thoughts

Hi All,

The debate on HR practices of the Army and the corporate world has been discussed over the years. Arguments thus far have remained unchanged. I have been on the Army side for a long time, but with a difference. I have admired corporate practices and have spent a considerable amount of time deeply understanding each.

I have been collecting thoughts from eminent people, HR professionals, and anyone with experience and interest. I firmly believe that a fine blend of the HR practices from both sides will make for interesting reading.

May I request you to be bold, frank, and open in expressing your views.

Best wishes and regards,
Col. Sanjay Pande (Retd.)

I totally disagree with you, Col. Pande. Observing corporate culture from outside and being in the system are a totally different ball game altogether. The diversity in the corporate world is unbeatable, as is the mindset. Corporates can be in banking, software, finance, insurance, and many more sectors, and people working in these systems are well aware of the complexities of their domains. A person coming from a different background will have to struggle a lot to understand the needs and culture of these professionals. Unlike soldiers, corporate workers are an intellectual lot and don't appreciate the extraordinary discipline of military personnel. Be prepared to face immense resistance, and if you try to push things through your way, then be prepared to be fired. I have seen 80% of military personnel being let go from corporate positions as they may look good on a resume but fail miserably in the corporate world. I have been dealing with the corporate HR system for the last 31 years, and I'm telling you that most military personnel's rapport is at stake when they enter the corporate world because they need to adapt heavily, something they may not have been groomed for. Adapting to the climate is one thing, but adapting to deal with an intellectual breed is another. One day you may feel that you've learned enough, but the next day something new will come up, and you'll find yourself in oblivion.

Well, I tend to disagree with you, Venket. Have you seen the placement results of the first two batches of Army officers from IIMs after completing their Management Programs? The Army teaches some great HR skills that are still valued in the corporate environment, namely leadership, motivation, training and development, competency mapping, staffing and selection, employee relations, discipline, HR policies, etc.

Agreed, not all the people who leave the Army make a mark, but that percentile is everywhere.

In my personal opinion, Army men will score much above anyone else in their commitment, ability to produce results under pressure, and handle multiple situations of varying magnitude, from a vehicle breakdown to a bomb blast!