Leadership is as much about vision and strategy as it is about communication. Yet, when that communication falters—especially when it descends into emotional outbursts—the consequences can be far-reaching. This reality was starkly illustrated in a recent incident involving DK Goel, chairman of FIITJEE, a prominent coaching institute.
A video of Goel verbally assaulting an employee during a virtual meeting has ignited widespread outrage. The chairman’s furious response to an employee questioning the company’s Rs 142 crore investment devolved into a tirade riddled with expletives and personal insults, even targeting the employee’s family. Beyond the individual incident, the controversy has drawn attention to broader issues within FIITJEE, including reports of unpaid salaries since February 2023.
A broader pattern of missteps
Goel’s lapse in judgment is not unique. Similar incidents have surfaced, such as one in mid-2023 involving Pushpal Roy, senior vice president at HDFC Bank, whose dismissive remarks during a virtual meeting also provoked widespread criticism. These high-profile examples suggest a broader trend, with many other instances going unrecorded or unnoticed.
“For every case that surfaces, countless others go unreported,” says Chandrasekhar Mukherjee, a senior HR leader. “These incidents may not always grab headlines, but their cumulative effect on employee morale and trust in leadership is undeniable.”
Mukherjee underscores the reputational damage such actions inflict: “It’s not just about what is said but how it is perceived. Leaders’ impulsive reactions can tarnish their personal credibility and dent the organisation’s employee brand.”
“When leaders react emotionally in public, their message gets overshadowed by the outburst. It’s the emotional impact that lingers, not the content.”
Shailesh Singh, chief people officer, Max Life Insurance
The power of words in leadership
Communication lies at the heart of effective leadership. Every statement—whether made in a boardroom, over a Zoom call, or during an all-hands meeting—carries weight. Respectful, clear communication fosters trust and collaboration, while harsh or impulsive words can erode morale and undermine organisational culture.
Shailesh Singh, chief people officer, Max Life Insurance, observes, “When leaders react emotionally in public, their message gets overshadowed by the outburst. It’s the emotional impact that lingers, not the content.”
In the high-stakes world of leadership, stress and pressure are inevitable. However, these challenges should never excuse unprofessional behaviour. Leaders must set the tone for their teams by demonstrating emotional control, even in the face of adversity.
“For every case that surfaces, countless others go unreported. These incidents may not always grab headlines, but their cumulative effect on employee morale and trust in leadership is undeniable.”
Chandrasekhar Mukherjee, senior HR leader
The challenges of virtual communication
The rise of remote work and virtual meetings has added layers of complexity to leadership communication. Platforms such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams, while boosting productivity, can sometimes exacerbate tensions. The absence of physical cues can amplify the perceived harshness of a leader’s words or tone.
“Virtual meetings can create a false sense of separation,” notes Mukherjee. “Leaders may feel emboldened by the screen, leading to lapses in judgment. A misstep in these settings can have amplified consequences, especially if recorded or widely shared.”
The hidden costs of outbursts
While public incidents grab attention, many remain confined to closed-door meetings. Yet, their impact is no less significant. Mukherjee recounts a case where an employee, humiliated in a meeting, gradually disengaged and eventually resigned. “It wasn’t until their exit interview that the leader realised the damage caused by a single moment of thoughtlessness,” he says.
Such incidents highlight the silent but profound impact of poor communication on team dynamics, productivity, and employee retention.
Cultivating emotional intelligence
Self-restraint is a cornerstone of emotional intelligence, a critical attribute for today’s leaders. Leaders who manage their emotions effectively create a culture of respect and collaboration, even under pressure.
Singh offers a practical approach: “Create a pause between stimulus and response. When you feel triggered, take a deep breath, reflect on your words’ impact, and then respond calmly. This small practice can be transformative.”
To foster professionalism and respect, leaders should prepare thoroughly for meetings, staying calm and composed even in challenging discussions. Using positive, constructive language while encouraging feedback and dialogue helps create an inclusive atmosphere.
Meetings should remain concise and focused to ensure productivity and respect for everyone’s time. Conversely, leaders must avoid reacting impulsively to stress, interrupting or dismissing others, using harsh or overly critical language, and allowing meetings to become confrontational. Adhering to these practices helps cultivate a respectful and effective workplace culture.
A lesson for leaders everywhere
The incidents at FIITJEE and HDFC Bank serve as cautionary tales, illustrating the consequences of poor communication. Beyond personal reputations, such lapses can harm organisational culture and employee engagement.
Effective leaders understand that their words carry immense power. By exercising self-restraint and prioritising thoughtful communication, they set the tone for a workplace built on trust, respect, and collaboration. In doing so, they not only inspire their teams but also safeguard their organisations’ long-term success.