Ruchira Karnik on how organisations can create a more diverse & inclusive workplace

We, at Adgully, have always saluted and honoured women managers and leaders across diverse fields. W-SUITE is a special initiative from Adgully that has been turning the spotlight on some of the most remarkable women achievers in the M&E, Advertising, Marketing, PR and Communications industry. In the refurbished series, we seek to find out how women leaders have been managing their teams and work as well as how they have been navigating through the toughest and most challenging times brought about by the global pandemic.

In conversation with Adgully, Ruchira Karnik, Chief Revenue Officer, upGrad for Business, speaks about gradual shift in societal attitudes towards gender equality, how prioritisation can be the key to a successful work-life balance, the importance of grooming future women leaders, and more.

How do you think the role and scope of women leaders have widened in the current market ecosystem?

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of women taking up leadership roles in various industries. These include sectors that were traditionally seen as a male bastion, such as finance, technology, healthcare, and more. One of the primary reasons behind this is access to education. Women now are better educated and trained, with access to more opportunities for skill development and professional growth. Add to it a gradual shift in societal attitudes towards gender equality and a growing recognition of the unique skills and perspectives that women bring to leadership positions. Technology too has played a major role in creating new opportunities for women to access and participate in the global economy.

I see this as a positive trend that is likely to continue. As more women take up leadership roles, they will serve as role models and mentors for future generations, helping to create a more diverse and inclusive business world.

What has been your major learning from the pandemic period?

One of my biggest lessons from the pandemic has been to not take things for granted. Appreciate all that you have and work hard to keep everything that matters to you – be it work, family, health or wealth.

What is your mantra for maintaining a successful work-life balance in the new normal? According to you, what makes women the best in crisis management?

Prioritise! Pre-pandemic or post, I’ve found prioritisation to be the key to a successful work-life balance. I find it effective to first identify what’s most important to me in both my professional and personal life and then making sure I allocate enough time and energy accordingly to both. What’s important is to set clear boundaries and be realistic when aligning your priorities.

I feel women are resilient by nature and that makes them ideal to handle crisis situations. Women’s ability to communicate, collaborate, and empathise, combined with their resilience and experience, helps them navigate the most challenging situations in a calm, focused and adaptable manner.

What are the five most effective leadership lessons that you have learned?

The most effective leadership lessons that I’ve learned over the years that have held me in good stead are leading by example, building and nurturing strong relationships with stakeholders, being adaptable and open to change, leading with empathy & compassion, and encouraging effective two-way communication.

Not only have these helped me become a better leader but also helped me build an open, supportive and respectful culture at work.

Gender sensitivity and inclusion in the new normal – how can organisations effectively encourage and groom women leaders in challenging times?

Providing women with mentorship and coaching along with leadership training and development programs is key to encouraging and grooming future women leaders. The guidance, support and advice from mentors and experts in their field can have a lifelong impact in helping women climb up the professional ladder. Organisations must also recognise and reward women leaders for their contributions and achievements, helping create a more diverse and inclusive workplace.