Brutally Unfiltered

In the early years of my career, the company I worked for in India introduced new changes to the company policy. It was a strategic move backed by many senior leaders, but not everyone saw it that way.

I was one of those overenthusiastic junior employees who didn’t like the idea and made some noise about it. We felt unheard, uncomfortable, and a little self-righteous.

But what happened next stayed with me for life.

Our Managing Director, Mr. S.P.A, a calm and composed gentleman, invited each of us for a one-on-one conversation. No judgment. Just to understand.

When it was my turn, I poured my thoughts out. He listened patiently, smiled, and then asked me just one question:

“Tell me honestly, Ganesh – if I had mentioned this shift system during your interview, would you have still accepted the offer and joined us? Or would you have walked away?”

I had no answer. Just silence.

He didn’t lecture. He didn’t push. That one question was enough.

I apologized and I stayed. In fact, I stayed until I moved to the U.S.

Over the years, my answer has varied. And that’s okay.

But the clarity it brings? Always priceless.

So the next time you’re upset with what’s happening around you ask yourself that one brutally unfiltered question.

If I knew this from Day 1… would I still say yes?