To Techfest 2004,
Although I shall be there with you for the next one year and more, there are few things that I would like to pen down tonight. As usual, they would come in 5-points. My two pence ...
1. Techfest Work Culture
Welcome to the family called Techfest. I am sure you must have realised by now what it is to be a part of this family! And if there is something that sets apart this family, then it is the 'work culture' and the importance of 'team work'. As Susu says - "Techfest does not work on a 80%-20% funda". All of us have to be convinced what we are doing and why are we doing it?
2. Vision
This is an important point when it comes to 'conceptualization'.
You have to see things, visualise them and make them happen. The onus is upon you now. You have to live upto it.
- Start on 'Zero' when you think of content.
- You are given a clean slate. Write your own Techfest on it.
- You are here because you are worth it. Realise that each one of you has been picked for the
talent in you.
- Aim ... aim high. Dream ... dream big. For it only takes a dream to create the future.
3. One level up: Shift gear from Cordi mode to Manager mode
'Planning' it takes to put up any show. And this time, it is you who are going to lead from the front. So change gear now and move one level up; because you have lots of work in store for you. Pull yourself, orgaise and lead. A few tips-
- Be a workaholic! Learn to love your work.
- Physical persence in meetings counts.
- Do it for your own self. Its not social service afterall.
- Realise that everybody will have a different point of view.
- Lead ... set example. Redefine your post by your contribution.
4. One level down: Do not reinvent the wheel
Great conceptualization and planning is worth nothing unless you have a perfect 'execution'. Perfect, I mean! And the secret lies in taking help and fundae from the old team. Do not try to discover all things afresh by yourself. Take help from the old team at every stage of the year. Never ever let any distance creep in, for they have seen more Techfest than you.
- Go to old team when down.
- Go to old team when high.
- Patience, tactfulness, trouble shooting ... all help in execution.
- Enthusiasm + Experience. You have the enthu ... they have the experience.
- Dont forget the old team. OLD TEAM PLEAAASSSEE!
5. Ethics
Last but not the least, this is perhaps the most important of the points. With great powers come greater responsibilities.
- Always remain true to your job.
- Let not the manager thing get to your head.
- Remain down to earth and let your event / job do the talking.
- Rise ... but not by slandering others.
So much for now. I only wish to hear two words - Techfest rules! - and I am confident that you will make it possible. Touchwood.
Zishaan M. Hayath
Manager Events
Techfest 2003