Emerging voices are sprouting across the colourful garden of Indian literature, each story unique and narrating a new experience. One among them is Preeti Khanolkar, an experienced HR professional turned author. The first book she wrote after becoming a writer was “People Connect – An Engagement Advantage.” The book is based on her 22+ years of experience in Human Resource Management. In this exclusive interview for AOI, Preeti delves into the details of her creative process and journey, as well as the message she hopes to convey.
Transformation From HR to Authorship
What inspired you to transition from your HR career to becoming an author?
I decided to become a writer due to a recommendation made by my coach, Dr. Manjunath M.S., who is also a Mind Performance Coach. Although I would write short informative pieces about business or employees that I supported as an HR Business Partner, it never occurred to me that I could write a complete book on my own. This journey has literally changed my life, helped develop, and instilled confidence in my writing.
Can you share a pivotal moment that defined your journey as a writer?
The key point in time came after realising that my many years working within human resources had provided me with insights that may be useful to others engaged in this field. Writing "People Connect – An Engagement Advantage" allowed me to bring these experiences together and share them with a wider readership.
Writing Process
What does your typical day look like when you’re engrossed in penning down a book?
When writing, I usually set aside 2-3 hours for writing, mostly during the afternoon. To start with, I focus on what it will be like once everything is completed, then put down everything on paper. It is important for me that by this time of the day, all other significant activities should have been finished so that I can write without any distractions.
How do you balance your writing with your other professional commitments?
I make sure I spend my time on writing after completing other major activities. This helps me concentrate fully while writing, excluding all other matters.
About the Book
What inspired “People Connect – An Engagement Advantage”?
The book was inspired by my experiences and thoughts around the subject of 'Employee Engagement.' As an HR professional, I have always considered this my area of strength. My people connect experiences in the workplace have significantly contributed to my learning and proficiency in this field.
What message or themes do you hope readers take away from your book?
The main idea is HR Business Partners to create people connections at the workplace under their care as a way to deliver better results and most importantly earn greater respect. To genuinely consider people's needs and be proactive.
Creative Insights
Where do you draw inspiration from for your writing?
I have been lucky enough to have worked with great people who constantly guided me with their wisdom. Those moments and lessons are what have given me the source of inspiration for writing them down.
How do you handle creative blocks or periods of low motivation?
Whenever it happens, if I face writer’s block, I will just stop whatever I am doing at that time. Then I may relax, listen to music, or perhaps go out for a walk. These activities help me rejuvenate myself before returning to writing refreshed.
The Upcoming Projects
Can you let us know what projects we should expect next?
I am still looking through my options, but I’m contemplating writing a short storybook. These stories would dwell on the very small things in life that may appear insignificant but have far-reaching consequences on a person’s journey.
Guide to Aspiring Writers
What advice do you have for aspiring authors who want to join the industry?
Aim at exploring more – you can go beyond the skies. It is necessary to be humble, as fame is not forever; it simply depends upon your work. Chase your goals in life and keep moving forward persistently throughout your life, you shall meet a renewed you. Moreover, storytelling skills are very important when it comes to capturing readers' interest.
Preeti Khanolkar’s transformation from an HR professional into a writer is an inspiration to all those who have been yearning to share their professional insights through writing. Her unique perspective on human relations in the workplace makes her contribution outstanding in the field of employee engagement. With other insightful works that connect the dots between professional experience and wisdom already in progress, this new passion for writing will see more such works coming her way henceforth. This reminds us that as long as our professional experiences serve as inspiration for impactful writing, it is never too late for one to embark on a new creative journey.
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