Group Dynamics, Managed - Srajan Kulshrestha, SPJIMR Mumbai

Why Aditya Birla Group Is Big In Your Life? 

When life upgraded from a hostel boy in an engineering college to a working professional in a large multinational corporation, the first rush of thoughts was a top to bottom transformation of my wardrobe. Shorts had to become trousers, graphic tees were to become solid polos and loose shirts would convert to slim fit formal shirts. Being part of BITS Pilani university (an additional Birla influence in my life), I was fortunate enough to get an opportunity into an entirely client-facing role which meant the attire change was of utmost importance. My father with his generally artistic mind had always been attracted to the Allen Solly’s stag. A week later I was stepping out of an Allen Solly outlet with 5 items in my bag. The brand claims to be the premium lifestyle brand in the retail space and it couldn’t be more accurate. It has opened a gateway to access high-end globalized fashion in an Indian company that is affordable as well as luxurious. In a noteworthy initiative to bring other similar brands together, Aditya Birla Fashion introduced the world to Planet Fashion. Finding all premium logos under one roof offered three times more options to choose from. Despite the existence of other major players in the segment, Allen Solly, Louis Philippe, Van Heusen and Peter England still appeared to be the top choices for most of my colleagues for their work attire and hence, a sincere thanks to Aditya Birla Fashion for introducing a bit more style to our office wear collection. 

How Have You Made An Impact? 

Ever since a young age, I have been enthusiastic and dedicated towards the work that came my way. Academics, sports, recitations, drama, I gave in my full attention to every task I was given. But I was never an opportunist. I wouldn’t go out and grab something. 

In school, my first attempt at leadership was shattered miserably and that forced a massive blow to myself telling me that I can be a great follower, never a leader. Until college, where I had worked as part of the festival management team with full commitment for 2 years and I had decided not to contest for a coordinator position. My mentors, who were impressed with my ideas and people’s skills, were disappointed and conducted a 4-hour long session to help me overcome my fear of failure and instill a self-appreciation that urged me to stand up. 

Two days later, I contested for the coordinator's position and was appointed the Sports Festival's Creative Head. I was responsible to lead a team of 60 students and to add revenue as well as value to the festival. The innumerable experiences of team management, conflict management, negotiation, brainstorming and budget planning made me a stronger version of myself. A year later, when I was thrown into a sales-oriented role, managing a team across regions, this experience formed the backbone letting me keep my head held high. I was able to create an impact on me and it is possibly the reason that I am part of one the most prestigious institutes in the country.