Interim Management in India

India has its own management style, which can also be described as a highly hierarchical (business) culture. Indians also communicate very indirectly. When foreign companies try to implement an open management style in India, they are usually unsuccessful. International companies that are successful in India usually have a local management that manages the staff and with which the head office communicates. It is not common to communicate directly with employees (non-management) in the organisation from HQ. Don't be naive: fathoming unwritten, cultural rules is impossible. The tech sector is an exception; cultural differences have been reduced considerably in this sector. Read more about the differences in culture and how to tackle this as an international company in our free guide for employers in India.

 

There are a number of options. There are many executive search firms operating in India. The quality of these varies. Often, international companies are looking for an Indian executive who understands their way of working and communicating. There are a number of steps you can take:

1. Search through informal networks; i.e. ask other companies in your network for suitable candidates. If one of your contacts suggests a candidate, then the candidate will not want to lose face with the proposer and will therefore be serious.
2. Search the Indian community in your country. Many Indians working for an organisation abroad want to return to India sooner or later. This group has work experience in your home country, knows the culture and mentality.
3. Engage headhunting agencies: the quality is not always good and our experience is that these agencies do not always understand what you are looking for.

IndiaConnected can advise you on the best strategy in your specific situation. Contact us here.

Yes, it is possible. For example, as an employee, as a freelancer, employed by a foreign company with a branch in India or employed by an Indian company. In our guide for employers, you will find a lot of information about applying for an Indian visa and what other steps you need to take to be ale to work in India. 

You can find a suitable partner in India through your network or by getting advice from our local experts. To make sure your partner is trustworthy, you need to your due diligence on them. Check references, speak to relations of your partner, engage with customers. Also ask your potential partner to make a commitment, to make sure they are on the same page. For instance, ask if they are willing to co-invest or buy x number of products. You have a commitment when an initial transaction is completed and you have the money in your account. We also recommend that you spend enough time with your potential partner. This goes beyond business meetings. Go along to visit your partner's family, meet his/her parents, relatives and children. Building a personal relationship with business partners is essential in India.