The ‘no shortcut’ way

Whether you're a struggling entrepreneur or a student/employee fighting to make ends meet, stories of people like Richard Branson and Oprah Winfrey always provide the much needed inspiration. They illustrate how hard work and perseverance lead to the desired results.

But then you see someone being 'handed' top management positions because their father or uncle happen to own a well established business (bummer) and you begin to question if all your hard work was in vain.

However today we bring you a rare story that will restore your faith in the good old 'no shortcut' way while giving you a whole new perspective.

Rahnuma Ahsan works as a management trainee at AG Agro, a subsidiary of Ahsan group. Now it goes without saying that she could have been assigned any position she wanted because her family owns the conglomerate. But she rather chose to start from the bottom and work through the ranks as she's a believer in achieving a post rather than inheriting it. We caught up with her to gain more insight about her work life.

What is the nature of your job? What post do you get?

I have been given the post of Management Trainee in AG Agro. In the first few months, I tried to understand the entire process and the technical aspects of this sector. I was amazed to learn that so much thought and effort went into the production of chicken feed! I would say the greater part of my work is the learning process. Every day I learn something new in the office. When I started out I used to look into the accounts but I enjoy the marketing side so I work on that sector more. Apart from that we have the freedom to come up with innovative ideas at AG. So currently I'm working on the feasibility and design of an idea.

Do you think you fit in with the other workers?

It has been some time now that I am working here so I get friendly nods when I come in now. Whereas before, they used to stand up for me, like I was their teacher or something. And it has been easier to fit in because of the post I was assigned.

Do they treat you differently?

See we belong in a culture where there is high power distance. People like their status and position and even if I don't want it that way. When I first went to the office, the HR manager took me around to get introduced with everyone. They told me their names and positions and in reply I said to each of them, "Hello! I am Rahnuma and I am here to learn from all of you. Please treat me like a student of yours and let me learn as much as I can from all of you." But they still call me Madam even after I asked them not to.

Can you make a real impact from your position?

From my position I do not think I can make an impact on the company's performance yet. But through this position the knowledge and trust of employees that I am gaining will surely help me make an impact in the future. I believe building trust and cooperation between employees and the top management is very important if a business is to be successful. This trust will help develop better ideas and make better decisions.

Do you think you experienced something working as a regular employee which you wouldn't have otherwise?

Definitely. I mean if I started working after I graduated from university, I would have joined as a director or CEO of some venture of my father's. It wouldn't have given me the same opportunity to understand the core of the business. I have the opportunity to meet people from the lowest to the highest inside the organisation. When I think of my father, he is the head, the chairman. So although he encourages openness, many employees will think twice before approaching him with a complaint or an idea or an issue. But I think by now everyone in the office is quite free and frank with me. There is mutual respect between us, but there is also a friendly vibe. That is what we need in our corporate cultures.

How is working as an MT helping in your personal development?

Practical knowledge and academic knowledge – what better way for personal development? I have grown as a person. I am no longer confused about what to do in the future. I have found my motivation and drive through this opportunity.

Whose idea was it?

My father's. I got a long break after completing my A levels and I think my father was tired of seeing me sitting at home all day. So one day when I asked for pocket money, he replied "Only if you go to office." Yes, I won't lie. That is why I went to office the first time.

Would you suggest the same for your siblings/children?

Yes, I already suggest the same to my younger brother. And I would to all the young people belonging to a business-based family. This is a better way to start a career in business. Instead of starting in a higher position and making decisions of a company you don't have any idea about, having to work through ranks allows you to be more aware of your own company's culture and behaviour.

Who is your inspiration?

My father inspires me the most. How he became who he is today from nothing inspires me the most. He truly symbolises that if you have passion and determination, anything is possible. I hope I can achieve my dreams as well.

About Rahnuma 

Rahnuma is a freshman at IBA, DU. She likes to try out new restaurants with friends when she's not busy. She's also popular among her friends for her #DekhoAmraKotoShundor hashtag she uses for her groupfies. And as is evident from the interview, Rahnuma is a valuable asset for the corporate sector of the country.

The interviewer is a freshman at the Institute of Business Administration, University of Dhaka