The Unforgettable Interview That Wasn't
Last summer, I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Abdul Muhit. He is a retired Joint Director of technical education, now residing in Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh. During our conversation, he shared some remarkable experiences from his long service tenure. One story, in particular, stood out for its powerful message about merit and recognition.
A Candidate's Strong Foundation
Mr. A.M. Khan completed his B.E. degree in electrical engineering from Banaras Hindu University in 1955. He built a solid academic record through consistent hard work. Years later, in 1963, an opportunity arose. A vacancy for a Senior Lecturer was advertised at the private polytechnic in Chandauli, Varanasi district. This position also required the candidate to serve as the head of the electrical engineering department.
The Interview That Ended Before It Began
The interview was scheduled at the official residence of J.B. Tandon, the Commissioner of Varanasi. Mr. Tandon also served as the President of the Managing Committee for the polytechnic. He attended the interview in that capacity. The interview board included Professors Ram Saran and Garula. Interestingly, Professor Garula had been one of Mr. Khan's teachers at Banaras Hindu University.
Professor Ram Saran initiated the interview with a technical question. He asked Mr. Khan if he knew what an instrument transformer was. Before Mr. Khan could even start his answer, Professor Garula intervened. He turned to Commissioner Tandon and made a decisive statement.
"He is the best candidate. There is no question of interview," Professor Garula declared.
Then, addressing Mr. Khan directly, he said, "Mr. Khan, you can go." Professor Saran remained silent. Mr. Khan collected his papers and left the room. Within a week, he received his official appointment letter. It confirmed his position as Senior Lecturer and Head of the Department of Electrical Engineering at Chandauli Polytechnic.
A Career Built on Excellence
This appointment marked the beginning of a distinguished career. Mr. Khan continued to receive promotions over the years. He eventually retired as Joint Director, Technical Education. His story underscores a crucial lesson about professional success.
The Real Truth About Employment
Today, many young people express frustration about the lack of employment opportunities. However, the reality often points to a shortage of truly worthy candidates. Mr. Khan's experience demonstrates this clearly. He received such an immediate and positive response precisely because of his unwavering dedication to his studies.
He always secured excellent marks. His overall performance and character during his student years were highly commendable. Professors like Garula and others formed a strong, favorable impression of him. This established reputation made him the first choice for the position.
The Universal Demand for Competence
Every educational institute and office actively seeks good, reliable workers. Competent individuals are essential for any organization to function smoothly and successfully. As the saying goes, no one is an enemy to themselves. Therefore, no sensible employer can ignore a genuinely good worker.
Good and dependable workers are always in demand. When you develop the skills and qualities that others need, they will naturally seek you out. The world operates on a fundamental principle of give and take. It places little value on mere grievances, protests, or demands.
The Simple Rule of Reciprocity
The observed rule is straightforward: receiving and giving must be in equal measure. If you desire employment, you must first make yourself useful. You need to cultivate the specific skills that other people and organizations require. Once you achieve this, you will find you have no complaints against potential employers. Similarly, they will have no complaints against you.
Then, a remarkable shift occurs. You will no longer need to desperately pursue employment. Instead, employment opportunities will begin to pursue you. Mr. Abdul Muhit's story is a timeless testament to this powerful truth.
