Interview by Kritika Gupta

KIHMCT

Mr. Anil Talukdar designated as the Director of Kukreja Institute of Management and Catering, holds a diverse experience in the hospitality industry. Working as an Assistant Manager, Lobby to opening and establishing KIMC, he has seen and served in all the major verticals under Hotel Management. In his entire career, he has been exposed to domestic (Delhi and Mumbai), as well as international (Saudi Arabia, Cairo Egypt, Singapore and more) working scenarios.

Views on Hospitality Industry

Opting education line was more of an accident than a choice. However, now, when I think about it, then this was the best decision of my life. In this field, I get to listen and understand the thought process of the youngsters. Also, it gives me a chance to explain them the entire structure and meaning of the hospitality business, which in the coming years is one of the most flouring industries in India. In here, a student is groomed from the ground level. They become humble, gain patience, more understandable, considerate, and many more qualities are embedded in them. 

Lead by Example, philosophy followed by Mr. Talukdar

Well, I have a very clear idea of leadership philosophy - lead by example. I consider it my duty, to show every person a direction, which needs to be followed to get a task done. In my entire career, I have never believed that a job is below my dignity. As for my style, I am ‘democratic’ to the extent that while making a decision, I involve all the concerned faculty members, listen to their suggestions and then finally take the decision.

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Challenges faced as the Director of KIHMCT

The most challenging part that I faced was in the starting, i.e., to spread awareness of our institute. Other than this, few minor challenges that we come across are – updating the infrastructure & methods as per the ongoing trends, making sure the level & dedication of the faculty members, assuring the support of top management & owners and maintaining the interest of the students. 

Approach towards Time management 

Time Management skill was already embedded in my system. If we talk about the hospitality industry, in particular, managing time is an essential factor in it. At the institute, I not only administer the functioning of various departments, but I also take classes. Hence, for me, punctuality is essential, and my team is also inspired and motivated by it.

Curriculum ensuring best practice of industry

The subjects that are taught in our institute are 100% industry friendly. Apart from theoretical knowledge, we make sure to expose the students to the real-world scenario as well. We hold various seminars, workshops, invite guests from the industry to impart their experience of the industry and many more.

Apart from this, we make sure that a student is well groomed in terms of his/ her personality and language, we hold regular sessions and dedicated classes to ensure this part is covered.

Placement Opportunities at KIHMCT

Our institute is nearly 14 years old now, and in the beginning, we had to work dedicatedly in making connect or network with various companies for recruitment purposes. But now, various hotel chains participate in our recruitment drive, organised annually. Another reason behind our brand name is our pass out batches and their admirable performances at their respective work place. Because of their hard work, the recruiters are aware of our name and want to participate in the drive.

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Methods opted to establish a healthy relation with the students

Knowing what is going on in the young minds can prove to be a significant asset while creating an entire program. My approach to connecting with the students is through taking classes on various topics. Taking these classes helps me to know their names as well as know about them as well. With this, I follow an ‘open-door’ policy, i.e., I make sure that I am always available for them any time of the day.

Suggestions to the Millennials 

Students who choose working in this industry sometimes do not understand the intensity to which they will have to serve the customers. My suggestion to them is to have more patience, don’t let their ego hurt, stay positive, have an open-mind and perform each task with perfection.