Page 34 - A Banker Down the Rabbit Hole

him, I started doing the work that I had already understood while looking
at it being done. I engaged myself whole heartedly thinking that the task
must be really urgent and other staff may not be available to do this
forcing him to do it himself in addition to his routine work of Assistant
Branch Manager.

Fortunately, I completed the task within the deadline and accurately as
per his comments later. Third day, I was in meeting with Branch Head
and the Second in Command to evaluate my skill sets. They indicated that
they proposed to set up a Loan Department for proper follow up and
appraisal of loans. The branch was growing and there was huge potential
in that town known for handloom textiles and export quality carpets. I
expressed my confidence to handle the Loan Department under their
guidance as I had received adequate knowledge inputs on loans and
advances during my probationary trainings at the Staff College and the
branches during last one year. I had found that the bank had very
systematic, well organized and well-meaning training system that
benefitted me a lot.

They asked me what would be my additional requirements beside a new
office table. I told that if they were serious in setting up a Loan Department,
they should club the Management Information System (MIS) function also
with this department because majority of the information statements
related to loans and advances. I could handle the department if I was
provided one full time clerical assistant for loan department and another
one for MIS section and would be seated preferably on the mezzanine floor
independently away from customers' noise in the banking hall. The
suggested space was available and they readily agreed to this.

The very next day, I was taken to an office furniture supplier for ordering
big size officer table of my choice. The same was delivered on priority
basis in 2 working days. We had a union leader working as a Special
Assistant. This was a glorified supervisory position in clerical cadre as per
agreement with unions to provide glorified position to union leaders as

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