How can startups aim to compete with international corporations where many larger, established Indian companies are still dipping their toes?
Many large companies have become ‘Vetocracy’. The system of checks and balances, replicated at every level of functioning, ensures that someone, somewhere can always block a positive action. Companies become the nation of naysayers.
Good management is about limited power but clear lines of authority. It is about giving managers autonomy, discretion, and the ability to exercise their own judgement. It requires bright, devoted people who are inspired by the chance to serve the vision of their company and earn respect for doing it.
This is not something that can be done overnight, but it can be done.
On an aside note, The pandemic should remind us to value the many people whose job do not generate huge incomes but are worthwhile, essential, even noble – from scholars to teachers to house help and cleaners. The market may not reward them, but we should respect them.