Winning Stroke: Interview with Mr. Bimal Dayal, Chief Executive Officer, Indus Towers

1. If not in the current profession, you would be?

The answer to this has changed over the years. At one point I wanted to be a doctor, then an artist. Now, I would like to be a teacher.

2. One book to read when you want to motivate yourselves?

There is no book that I turn to for motivation, I rely on endorphins for that.

3. What is the best advice you have received from a superior?

“If you want to be a leader, start acting like one.”

4. What’s your fitness mantra?

Listen to your body and run; else - play golf.

5. Luck or Hard Work, what do you think weighs more in defining a successful person?

I believe that success comes when hard work is stitched in the threads of experience. 

6. One best decision you ever made?

I think one of my best decisions was not to stick to one geography. I have worked in 3 out of 4 metros and in a total of 8 cities across India – and that breadth of exposure was truly valuable. 

7. What do you resort to during a decision-making dilemma?

I have immense faith in the power of collective wisdom and patience.

8. What has been your biggest achievement?

I consider my biggest achievement to be the creation of Brand Indus, which was made possible by the unstinting support of all my colleagues.

9. One experience that has changed your life forever?

My brief stay at Harvard gave me new insights that changed my outlook. More recently, my experience of being an executive coach has helped me approach things with a fresh perspective.

10. Who is your ‘go to’ person in every situation and why?

It depends on the situation. Most times, I dig deep into my own reserves. If it’s something that calls for very specific expertise, then I look for an expert in the field and / or turn to my notes.