How to Build a Successful Career in Leadership: Lessons from Enakshi Priyam's Journey

Leadership is a skill that many of us aspire to master, but it’s often shrouded in myths about natural talent and luck. The truth is, effective leadership is a craft you can hone with the right mindset, skills, and experiences. Today, I want to share practical advice inspired by the career of Enakshi Priyam, recently appointed Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Assotech Group. Her inspiring journey from a finance professional to a strategic leader offers invaluable lessons for anyone looking to excel in their career.

1. Master Your Craft Before Leading Others

Leadership doesn’t begin with a title; it starts with competence. Enakshi Priyam earned her stripes by excelling in finance, armed with a degree from Durham University, UK. Over her seven years at Assotech Group, she didn’t just do her job—she transformed it.

• Takeaway: Focus on becoming an expert in your field. Whether you’re in finance, marketing, or operations, deep knowledge builds confidence and earns respect.

• Action Tip: Invest in continuous learning through courses, certifications, or hands-on projects.

  
  

2. Solve Problems, Don’t Just Manage Them

One standout aspect of Enakshi’s career is her ability to lead transformative initiatives, like enhancing Assotech’s legal department and steering its NCR division successfully. Leaders don’t just identify problems; they solve them.

• Takeaway: Problem-solving is the cornerstone of effective leadership.

• Action Tip: Adopt a proactive mindset. When faced with challenges, ask, “What can I do to create a long-term solution?”

  
  

3. Build a Legacy of Trust and Innovation

As COO, Enakshi is now tasked with maintaining and enhancing Assotech’s legacy of innovation and customer satisfaction. Great leaders think beyond their tenure—they aim to leave the organization better than they found it.

• Takeaway: Leadership is about vision. Think about how your actions today will shape the future.

• Action Tip: When taking on new responsibilities, set clear, long-term goals. Involve your team to ensure collective success.

  
  

4. Embrace Challenges as Opportunities

Enakshi described her new role as an “honor” and expressed her excitement about advancing Assotech’s mission. This positive outlook is crucial for leadership.

• Takeaway: Challenges are growth opportunities in disguise.

• Action Tip: Reframe obstacles as chances to grow. For example, if you’re assigned a tough project, focus on the skills and insights you’ll gain.

  
  

5. Lead with Empathy and Teamwork

Leadership isn’t about doing everything yourself—it’s about guiding a team toward success. Enakshi emphasized the importance of her team in advancing Assotech’s legacy.

• Takeaway: The best leaders prioritize collaboration and empathy.

• Action Tip: Practice active listening. During team meetings, ask for input and acknowledge contributions to build trust and morale.

  
  

Conclusion: Be the Leader You Aspire to Follow

Enakshi Priyam’s journey shows us that leadership is built on expertise, innovation, and collaboration. It’s not about waiting for opportunities to knock but about creating them through hard work and a vision for the future.

As you work toward your leadership goals, remember: “Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge.”—Simon Sinek.

Start small, lead with purpose, and watch as you inspire those around you to achieve greatness.