Leadership Lessons from Jeetu Bhaiya of Kota Factory

Who knew a binge-watch session could offer leadership insights? Thanks to my team's FOMO-inducing nudge towards Kota Factory, I discovered a wealth of wisdom from the iconic Jeetu Bhaiya. His approach to life and his students transcends the classroom, offering valuable lessons for leaders of all styles. While some of Jeetu Bhaiya's methods might seem simple on the surface, a deeper look reveals powerful principles for building a thriving team.

Striking the right balance

• Journey is also important: From a business perspective, it’s always the outcome that matter. Hence celebrating efforts, brings a newer perspective towards leadership and life. For the students that are frustrated and on the verge of giving up, Jeetu Bhaiya throws a "Not Selected" party to acknowledge the effort students put in, while also celebrating the success of cracking IIT. He says, "Life mein sirf IIT selection hi success nahi hai (Success in life isn't just about cracking IIT)" This fosters a culture where learning is valued over results, and students bounce back stronger. From a leadership perspective, it’s important to start thinking about these aspects. It is not an easy job to simply applaud efforts, however a good option would be to implement reviews that acknowledge individual contributions and team achievements periodically.

• Aim, don't dream: It is important to aim in the right direction to achieve Big Hairy Audacious Goals. Dreams remain a dream unless you act on them, in a KOTAfied version Jeetu Bhaiya emphasises the difference between "sapna” (dream) and "Lakshya” (aim). He pushes students to actively pursue goals, saying, "Sapne dekhne se kuch nahi hota, lakshya karo” (Dreaming doesn't achieve anything, set goals). This inspires leaders to be action-oriented and translate vision into concrete plans. He also equips them with clear structures and study plans. Fostering ambition while equipping the team with the tools and processes to achieve goals can give better outcomes. It drives home the point for the need to provide learning and development opportunities alongside setting challenging objectives.

• Empower don’t micromanage: Jeetu Bhaiya in his unique way brings out the difference between board exams and competitive entrances. He explains, "Board mein har step dikhana padta hai, IIT mein sirf jawab dena hai” (In boards, you need to show every step, in IIT, just the answer matters). Leaders can apply this by ensuring their teams understand the purpose behind tasks and give them freedom to find efficient solutions. Leaders not only need to clearly communicate goals and objectives, but must allow them autonomy to choose the best path to achieve goals.

• Celebrate progress: Jeetu Bhaiya tells Vaibhav, "21 din mein koi bhi aadat badli jaa sakti hai” (Any habit can be changed in 21 days). While he emphasises habit formation, he also focuses on improvement, not just perfection. Encouraging consistent development while acknowledging that progress takes time is a tool that every leader must have. As we move ahead on the journey towards the end goal, it’s important to celebrate smaller milestones.

• Empathy is the Cornerstone: “Mujhe toh unn bachchon se zyada darr lagta hai jo meri har baat maante hain” (I fear the students who follow my every word). This highlights the importance of empathetic leadership, where leaders understand and support their team's struggles. Jeetu Bhaiya not only cares for his students, but also he doesn't lower expectations. Being supportive while maintaining a results-oriented approach helps drive excellence as a culture. Leaders must build an environment that prioritises overall well-being while also holding team members accountable for achieving goals.

Leadership traps to avoid

• Micromanagement monster: Jeetu Bhaiya trusts his students to find their own solutions. Don't become a control freak, stifling creativity and initiative. Avoid suffocating the team with excessive control, but provide guidance to avoid confusion.

• Dismissive leadership: When Vartika struggles with a problem, Jeetu Bhaiya isn't dismissive. Don't disregard the team's concerns or belittle their challenges. Listen to concerns and offer solutions, but don't become a therapist for every issue.

• Dictatorial downfall: Jeetu Bhaiya encourages healthy discussion. Avoid being a dictator who shuts down opposing viewpoints.Value diverse perspectives while maintaining a clear direction.

• Results at all costs: Jeetu Bhaiya recognises the pressure students face. Don't prioritise results over the mental health of the team. Strive for success, but prioritise the team's mental and emotional health.

By incorporating the wisdom of Jeetu Bhaiya and avoiding these pitfalls, one can cultivate a thriving and motivated team environment. Remember, leadership is all about striking the right balance – supporting, challenging, fostering growth, and celebrating achievements every step of the way. Who knows we could be someone’s Jeetu Bhaiyya!

~Dr. Brillian S. K.