MBA students at Ace International Business School, had the distinct privilege of attending a guest session with series entrepreneur Siddharth Kedia. This engaging session focused on the meaning and value of work ethics and professionalism, as well as the essential skills needed for success in business. The discussion was rich with insights, drawing from Kedia’s extensive experience and profound understanding of the business landscape.
The Meaning and Value of Work Ethics and Professionalism

Kedia began by delving into the core concepts of work ethics and professionalism. He defined work ethics as the moral principles that guide an individual's behaviour in the workplace, emphasizing integrity, honesty, responsibility, and dedication. Professionalism, he explained, is about maintaining a high standard of conduct, demonstrating competence, and showing respect towards colleagues, clients, and stakeholders.

He stressed that work ethics and professionalism are fundamental to building a sustainable and reputable career. "In today’s fast-paced and competitive business environment, your ethical standards and professional demeanour can set you apart," he noted. "They are the foundation upon which trust is built, and trust is the cornerstone of any successful business relationship."

Kedia shared personal anecdotes to illustrate how adhering to strong ethical principles had positively impacted his career. He recounted instances where difficult decisions had to be made, and choosing the ethical path not only preserved his integrity but also enhanced his credibility and fostered long-term trust with partners and clients.

Essential Skills for Business Success

Transitioning from ethics and professionalism, Kedia outlined the critical skills necessary for success in the business world. He highlighted four key areas: critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and leadership.

1. Critical Thinking

Kedia emphasized the importance of critical thinking as the ability to analyse situations, identify problems, and devise effective solutions. He argued that in a business environment characterized by uncertainty and rapid change, the ability to think critically is invaluable. He encouraged students to cultivate this skill through continuous learning, questioning assumptions, and seeking diverse perspectives.

2. Collaboration

Next, Kedia underscored the value of collaboration. He highlighted that businesses are inherently collaborative endeavours, requiring the concerted efforts of diverse teams to achieve common goals. "No matter how brilliant your idea, its success will depend on your ability to work effectively with others," he said. He advised students to develop strong interpersonal skills, be open to feedback, and foster a collaborative culture in their future workplaces. He also stressed the importance of building a network of supportive and resourceful contacts.

3. Creativity

Creativity, Kedia argued, is the engine of innovation. He encouraged students to embrace creativity not just in product development or marketing, but in every aspect of their business operations. He shared examples from his entrepreneurial journey where creative thinking led to innovative solutions that propelled his businesses forward. He advised students to cultivate an open mind, take calculated risks, and view challenges as opportunities for creative solutions.

4. Leadership

Finally, he discussed the importance of leadership. He defined effective leadership as the ability to inspire, motivate, and guide others towards achieving shared objectives. He encouraged students to develop their leadership skills by taking on responsibilities, learning from mentors, and continuously reflecting on their leadership style and effectiveness. He highlighted the importance of empathy, communication, and adaptability in effective leadership.

The session with was a transformative experience for the MBA students, providing them with a deeper understanding of work ethics, professionalism, and the essential skills needed for business success. His emphasis on critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and leadership resonated deeply with the students, offering them practical advice and inspiration to apply these principles in their careers.