Page 87 - A Banker Down the Rabbit Hole

sets on their farm and some had even started repayment. We decided
to be a bit slow like the whole lot of other bank managers and officers
and fixed a minimum period of 15 days for disbursement by being slow
on field inspections and processing of appraisal applications. We were
shattered to be labeled as "dishonest officers, hand in glove with the
dealer". As we had to grant loans any way, we started taking a little more
time in disbursal just to correct our image in the minds of people in the
service area. Very unfortunately, the conduct of the dealership compelled
us to compromise on our efficient system.

Now the particular dealer had no competitive advantage of speed as
compared to other dealers as we started exercising extra care in
verification of cases. The dealer lost the motivation to deal with us and
the deposit in the current account also vanished.

Insights from the episode

1. Interpersonal ethos with colleagues is established by walking the talk.
2. The business dealings thrive on business interests only between any
two parties in business.
3. Perception Management is essential to establish credibility.
4. Not only one should be honest but also be perceived as honest Or
"Be honest; Look honest".

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