I always believed in building rapport with colleagues. During my one-on-one meetings with staff, many opened up about personal issues. Knowing these things helped me understand them better, enabling me to manage without imposing rigid rules that could create friction.

During my time as a clerk, I was fortunate to work under encouraging and empowering superiors who gave me freedom and responsibility. This trust boosted my confidence, and I adopted the same approach with my subordinates. I trusted them and gave them the freedom to perform, which rarely resulted in disappointment.

In one rural branch, I experienced complete independence, and the team cohesion was exceptional. In an administrative role later, I guided a diffident officer, helping him grow into a confident professional.

I also made it a habit to greet my staff every morning and wish them on their birthdays. Let me end with a humorous story: One colleague was notoriously grumpy and hated being wished on his birthday. Yet, I went to his desk and asked, "I know you don’t like birthday wishes, so what should I do?" He burst out laughing, and that was the end of it.

Contd. 309. Caution and Precaution - Part 1