In Conversation with Dr. Chikkala Venugopal Rao

We would like to congratulate Dr. Chikkala Venugopal Rao for winning the RCrit Author Award 2024 for the following books

Beyond Bossing The Art of Inspirational People Leadership
Coaching and Mentoring in Leadership Development

1. Congratulations on your recent award! How does it feel to be recognized in such a significant way? What does this award mean to you personally and professionally?

Thank you for the kind words! Receiving this award is both an honour and a humbling experience. It validates the hard work and dedication I’ve invested, reinforcing the idea that perseverance truly pays off. Personally, it’s a proud moment and a reminder of the sacrifices and challenges overcome. Professionally, it enhances my credibility and opens up new opportunities. It also motivates me to continue contributing meaningfully to my field and to support others in their own journeys to success.

2. “Beyond Bossing: The Art of Inspirational People Leadership” and “Coaching and Mentoring in Leadership Development” have resonated with many readers. What do you think is the key message or takeaway that has made these books so impactful?

Both books emphasize a shift from traditional authoritative leadership to a more empathetic and people-centered approach. In “Beyond Bossing,” the key message is about moving from mere management to truly inspiring and empowering your team. It’s about fostering trust, encouraging innovation, and leading by example. Meanwhile, “Coaching and Mentoring in Leadership Development” highlights the importance of guiding and nurturing talent through personalized coaching and mentoring. The central takeaway is that effective leadership is rooted in genuine care for people and a commitment to their growth, which ultimately drives collective success.

3. In “Beyond Bossing,” you emphasize the distinction between traditional bossing and inspirational leadership. How do you define the difference between the two, and why do you believe inspirational leadership is more effective in today’s work environment?

Traditional bossing often involves a top-down approach with a focus on control and compliance. It can create an environment where employees follow orders out of obligation rather than engagement. Inspirational leadership, in contrast, focuses on vision, empathy, and empowerment. Inspirational leaders foster a sense of purpose, encourage creativity, and earn respect through their actions. This approach is more effective today because it builds motivated, engaged, and innovative teams. In an environment that values collaboration and adaptability, inspirational leadership helps create a positive, high-performance culture that drives long-term success.

4. Coaching and mentoring are often used interchangeably in leadership development. How do you differentiate between the two in your book, and why is it important for leaders to understand this distinction?

In “Coaching and Mentoring in Leadership Development,” coaching is depicted as a structured, short-term process aimed at specific goals and performance improvement. It involves working closely with an individual to unlock their potential through targeted feedback and questions. Mentoring, however, is a longer-term, developmental relationship focused on overall career growth and personal guidance. Understanding this distinction is crucial because each approach addresses different needs and situations. Coaching is ideal for immediate challenges, while mentoring supports broader, ongoing development. Leveraging both effectively can enhance both short-term performance and long-term career growth.

5. In both books, you discuss leadership from a people-centric perspective. Given the current trend towards automation and AI in the workplace, how do you see the role of human leadership evolving?

Even as automation and AI become more prevalent, the role of human leadership remains vital. Technology can handle routine tasks, but human leaders are essential for qualities like empathy, creativity, and ethical judgment. In the age of AI, leaders will need to focus more on fostering innovation, guiding teams through change, and maintaining a strong organizational culture. Effective leaders will integrate technology with human talent, using data-driven insights while still prioritizing the human aspects of leadership. People-centric leadership will be crucial for creating an engaged, motivated, and resilient workforce, balancing technological advancements with a deep understanding of human dynamics.

6. Self-help and leadership books can sometimes be criticized for offering generic advice. How do you ensure that your books provide actionable, specific guidance that leaders can implement in real-world scenarios?

To avoid generic advice, I focus on providing actionable and specific guidance rooted in real-world experiences. My books include diverse case studies and practical tools that readers can apply to their own contexts. I offer step-by-step processes, exercises, and templates designed to address real challenges. Additionally, I encourage readers to reflect on their own practices and set personalized goals. This approach ensures that the advice is not only relevant but also immediately applicable, helping leaders make meaningful changes in their leadership practices.

7. With leadership being such a broad and often subjective topic, how do you balance your personal experiences and beliefs with the need to appeal to a diverse audience of leaders from various backgrounds?

I balance personal experiences with a diverse audience by focusing on universal leadership principles like empathy, integrity, and adaptability. While applications of these principles may vary, their core relevance remains consistent. I incorporate diverse perspectives and examples from various industries and backgrounds to ensure broad applicability. Additionally, I encourage readers to reflect on their own experiences and adapt the concepts to their unique contexts. By sharing insights as part of an ongoing conversation rather than definitive answers, I invite leaders from all backgrounds to engage and contribute their own perspectives.

8. In “Beyond Bossing,” you discuss the art of inspirational leadership, but in practice, many leaders face structural and cultural challenges that make this difficult. How do you address these real-world barriers in your work?

In “Beyond Bossing,” I address structural and cultural barriers by offering practical strategies for overcoming these challenges. I provide guidance on working within existing frameworks to influence change, such as advocating for flexible processes and fostering collaboration. I also emphasize the importance of building trust and creating a supportive environment to overcome cultural barriers. Leading by example and demonstrating inspirational leadership qualities can influence organizational culture from the ground up. Additionally, real-world case studies illustrate how others have successfully navigated similar challenges, providing practical insights and inspiration.

9. As an author who has now gained significant recognition, what’s next for you? Are there any new projects or books on the horizon that readers can look forward to?

I’m excited to share that I’m working on several new projects. My upcoming books include “Stress Management Techniques for Daily Life,” which will provide practical strategies for managing stress, and “Tomorrow’s Talent: Role of HR in the Age of Advancement,” focusing on HR’s role amidst rapid technological changes. I’m also exploring interactive formats like online courses and workshops to offer hands-on guidance and enhance learning experiences. Additionally, I’m collaborating with thought leaders to develop new frameworks and tools addressing emerging leadership trends. I look forward to sharing these developments with my readers soon.

10. Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring leaders who are just starting their journey? How can they apply the principles in your books to navigate the complexities of leadership in today’s world?

For new leaders, my advice is to embrace continuous learning, build strong relationships, lead with authenticity and empathy, and implement practical strategies. Stay curious and open to feedback, foster genuine connections with your team, and lead with care and integrity. Use the actionable tools and frameworks from my books to address real-world challenges and regularly reflect and adapt your approach. By applying these principles, you’ll navigate the complexities of leadership effectively and make a meaningful impact. Remember, leadership is a journey of ongoing growth and learning.