Can you?
Read this short story: A senior leader who once worked closely with the Reliance Group of India shared this story with me – one that beautifully captures the rare genius of its legendary founder, Mr. Dhirubhai Ambani.
By the 1980s, Dhirubhai Ambani was already reshaping India’s industrial landscape -democratizing capital markets, building world-class manufacturing at scale, and daring Indian enterprise to think globally. Yet, beyond his vision for infrastructure, energy, textiles, and finance, his greatest gift was something far more human: an extraordinary eye for talent.
On one such day, Mr. Ambani was waiting to meet a government minister. The meeting was delayed by about twenty minutes. For most leaders, this would have been idle time to relax. For Dhirubhai, it became an opportunity.
Seated nearby was a business executive from another firm, also waiting. What followed was a casual, unassuming conversation – about business, markets, challenges, and aspirations.
No pitch. No intent. Just curiosity, warmth, and sharp listening.
At the end of the conversation, as he got up to the minister Mr. Ambani asked gently yet directly, “Pardon my asking – may I know what you earn today, salary and perks included?”
The executive hesitated, then replied, “Around INR 3,00,000 per annum.”
Without pause, Dhirubhai reached into his pocket, handed over his business card, and said with quiet conviction: “I’ll offer you INR 5,00,000. Please come to my office from tomorrow.”
No long interviews. No HR process. No committees. Nearly 66% hike in the offer.
Just instinct, respect for capability, and absolute confidence in his judgment.
That was Dhirubhai Ambani. An ability to Spot Talent. Act Boldly … and he went on to Build the Empire!
“Success belongs to those who recognize talent in the moment – and move.”
He built Reliance not merely through assets, plants, or balance sheets – but by spotting people before others saw their full potential, backing them boldly, and giving them room to grow. He understood something timeless: capital can be raised; technology can be acquired – but exceptional people must be recognized in the moment.
Empires are built not only with strategy and commitment to execution – but with faith in human potential.
And perhaps that is one of the most valuable lessons from Dhirubhai Ambani’s life:
Great leaders don’t wait for talent to announce itself. They have the intuition to recognize it and courage to act decisively.
So how do you develop this ability – an eye for talent – if it doesn’t come naturally?
Not every entrepreneur or professional is born with that instinct. But it can be cultivated. Here’s how:
1. Believe in Serendipity When paths cross, meet strangers, remain open and curious – life often throws its best opportunities through unexpected meetings. What unfolds next depends on the priorities you choose.
2. Stay Engaged When you meet someone genuinely admirable – or sense long-term potential – don’t let the moment pass. Follow up. Create space for deeper conversations. Talent often reveals itself over time, not in first impressions.
3. Place People with Purpose Every journey has multiple arenas: business, operations, career, personal growth, even the spiritual. Thoughtfully “place” people where their strengths align best. The right context unlocks the greatest value – for them and for you.
With geopolitics, industries, and roles evolving at unprecedented speed, an eye for talent isn’t just about spotting brilliance – it’s about nurturing connections and aligning them with purpose.
Would love to hear your guiding stories and views where recognizing (or cultivating) talent made all the difference to finding such extraordinary eye for talent!
