Dr Amit Nagpal

Dr Amit NagpalDr Amit NagpalDr Amit Nagpal

Dr Amit Nagpal

Dr Amit NagpalDr Amit NagpalDr Amit Nagpal
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How to Become an Independent Director in India

11 Steps to Become an Independent Director in a Prominent Organisation

Training Facilitation / Business Storytelling Training


 


a) Corporates & SMEs


b) Non Profits & Changemakers


c) Educational Institutes





a) Corporates & SMEs


He conducts workshops and inhouse trainings on several topics including:-





Popular Topics


Business Storytelling


Brand Storytelling


Data Storytelling


Social (Media) Leadership


Storytelling for Startups & SMEs


Storytelling for Leaders 





Business Storytelling


Ø Why Business Storytelling


Ø Discovering right stories to tell


Ø Storytelling Frameworks


Ø Narrative Skills 


Ø Story structure


Ø Data Storytelling


Ø The Art of Narration


Ø Storytelling Techniques


Ø Story triggering & Story showing





Brand Storytelling


Ø Your story is your brand


Ø Types of Brand Storytelling


Ø Qualities of a Good Story


Ø Storytelling on social & digital media


Ø Understanding shareology and viral marketing


Ø Story triggering & Storymaking





Data Storytelling


Ø Numbers tell a powerful story


Ø Data visualization


Ø The Art of Narration


Ø Examples & caselets





Storytelling for Startups and SMEs


Ø Your story is your brand


Ø Qualities of a Good Story


Ø Types of Stories


Ø The Art of Narration


Ø Social Media Psychology


Ø Using stories to pitch to investors


Ø 7E Model of Storytelling








b) Non profits & Changemakers


Storytelling for Thought Leaders & Changemakers


Ø Your story is your brand


Ø Replacing old stories with new stories


Ø Qualities of a Good Story


Ø The Art of Narration


Ø Establishing your thought leadership 


Ø 7E Model of Storytelling








c) Educational Institutes


For Faculty


Storytelling as a Facilitation Tool


Ø Storytelling as Edutainment


Ø The Art of Narration


Ø Using stories in teaching different subjects


Ø Storytelling Formats


Ø 7E Model of Storytelling


Ø Building a Story Bank





For Students


Social (Media) Leadership & Personal Branding


Ø Your story is your brand


Ø Qualities of a Good Story


Ø Emerging as a Leader on social media


Ø Online Executive Presence


Ø Storytelling on social & digital media


Ø Understanding shareology and viral marketing


Ø 7E Model of Storytelling





Personal Branding and Executive Presence for MBA students





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Other Topics


Ø  Story Triggering


Ø Visual Storytelling


Ø Social Media Storytelling


Ø Digital Storytelling


Ø Social Impact Storytelling


Ø Storytelling for Public Speaking


Ø Storytelling for Pitching to Investors


Ø Storytelling for Influencer Marketing


Ø  Storytelling for Viral Marketing





7 Techniques to Create Aha Moments in Public Speaking





Speaker & Facilitator


He speaks at prestigious platforms such as Story The Future Summit, Career Summit ,ICF etc. He has done speaking / Training assignments at :-



Associations & Press Clubs

- International Coach Federation (Delhi NCR & Mumbai Chapters),

- Delhi Management Association, New Delhi

- Public Relations Society of India, New Delhi

- Society for Technical Communication India, Delhi chapter

- South Gujarat Chamber of Commerce; Surat

- Indore Press Club, Indore

- Chandigarh Press Club, Chandigarh





Educational Institutions

- IIT- Madras, Chennai

- Department of Journalism, LSR College for Women, New Delhi

- Lancaster University (exchange program), GD Goenka World Institute, Gurugram


- We School (Welingkar Institute of Management), Mumbai


- Fore School of Management

- School for Social Entrepreneurs, Gurugram


- Sri Sri Centre for Media Studies, Bangalore

- Sri Aurobindo Centre for Arts and Communication, New Delhi

- School of Management, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad

- School of Management, Pondicherry University et al





Training Centers & Summits

- Story The Future Summit , Global

- Career Summit 2020 Online

- NIIT, New Delhi

- Aptech, New Delhi





Training & Consulting Services

Corporates- Accenture, Tata Communications, STC etc

SMEs- Go Medii, Natural Remedies, ODpedia etc

Non profits- Jaipur Rugs Foundation, SANIF (Stroke & Neurovascular Interventions Foundation), NASSCOM Insights,  Centre for CSR (BRICS Chambers), Tamil Nadu Corporation for Development of Women (TNCDW) etc.



Faculty Development Workshops- BIMTECH, ICFAI etc (storytelling as teaching tool) 





Contact Now





Speaking Style


Dr. Amit Nagpal helps individuals and organizations develop and share their stories in a way that is compelling and impactful. 





Style- As such, his speaking style is characterized by his ability to tell stories, inspiring his listeners to take action and make positive changes in their lives and careers, delivering practical insights and actionable strategies that can be applied in the real world. Dr. Nagpal has extensive experience in training and development, having worked with numerous organizations to provide leadership and communication training to executives and employees. 





Storytelling - He uses various formats of storytelling such as personal anecdotes, real life examples and case studies to make his presentations come alive. His approach to storytelling is rooted in a deep understanding of human nature and a keen sense of empathy, which makes his stories relatable and impactful. 





Audience engagement- Whether he is speaking to a group of CXOs, entrepreneurs or students, he is able to adapt his message and delivery to meet the specific needs of his audience. To ensure that his audience is actively engaged in the learning process he incorporates activities, group discussions, Q & A sessions into his talks and presentations. 





Summing up- Overall, his speaking style is dynamic, engaging, and informative, with a focus on storytelling, motivation, and practical insights. His ability to connect with his audience on an emotional level and provide actionable advice makes him a highly effective speaker and coach.





Tags:  


Storytelling training, Storytelling coaching, Business storytelling, Storytelling for leaders, Storytelling techniques


Narrative skills, Storytelling workshops, Storytelling masterclass Storytelling for public speaking, Storytelling for sales, Storytelling for branding, Storytelling for marketing

Step 1: Assess Eligibility and Qualifications

You can download the PDF profile of Dr. Amit Nagpal, a renowned business storytelling coach who specializes in business storytelling and personal branding, here.

Step 2: Acquire Necessary Knowledge

- Understanding of Corporate Laws: Aspiring independent directors need to familiarise themselves with the Companies Act, 2013, especially the provisions related to the roles and responsibilities of directors. Additionally, incorporating business storytelling can enhance your understanding of how these laws affect corporate governance and personal branding.


- Corporate Governance: One needs to gain knowledge about corporate governance practices, ethical standards, and risk management. Engaging with a storytelling coach can help in effectively communicating these concepts.


- Get certified: Become a certified independent director by getting certified from a reputed organization, which can further aid in strengthening your personal branding.

Step 3: Register on the Independent Directors’ Databank

- The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has set up a databank for independent directors, emphasizing the importance of personal branding in today’s corporate landscape. Registration is mandatory for individuals looking to enhance their business storytelling skills and get selected as independent directors in various companies. This databank serves as a valuable platform for those aiming to connect with storytelling coaches who can further refine their narrative skills.

Step 4: Complete the Proficiency Self-Assessment Test

After registering in the databank, you must pass the online proficiency self-assessment test conducted by the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA). This test evaluates your understanding of company law, securities law, basic accountancy, and related subjects, which are essential for effective business storytelling and personal branding. If you seek to enhance these skills, consider working with a storytelling coach to further develop your expertise.

Step 5: Personal Branding

Personal branding and business storytelling are essential tools for establishing your Unique Value Proposition (UVP) as an independent board member in the corporate world. A storytelling coach can assist you in crafting a narrative that not only aligns with the principles of corporate governance but also showcases your unique individuality. 


An effective personal brand distinguishes an independent director, emphasizing their unique expertise, ethical standards, and decision-making skills. Being a domain expert in areas such as ESG & CSR, corporate law, cybersecurity, and international business can prove advantageous. 


Enhance your profile with relevant experiences, certifications, and skills that reflect your capability to serve as an independent director.

Step 6 : Strategic Networking

- Build a network with industry events, seminars, and forums to enhance your personal branding through effective business storytelling.


- Connect with senior and successful independent directors to learn the ropes and refine your skills as a storytelling coach.


- Network with Founders and Promoters of Startups to share insights on personal branding and business storytelling.


- Engage with the board community, especially NRC committee members, to expand your network and explore storytelling techniques in a professional setting.

Step 7: Apply for Positions

- Monitor corporate announcements and stay in touch with board search firms for openings, leveraging business storytelling to effectively communicate your value. 


- Utilize your network and the Independent Directors’ Databank to identify opportunities, enhancing your personal branding through strategic connections. 


- In the long run, build a brand as a storytelling coach which gets you invited to the boards.

Step 8: Understand the Selection Process

- Companies often have a Nomination and Remuneration Committee that evaluates potential candidates for appointing as a non-executive director (NED) or independent director. Utilizing effective business storytelling can enhance your appeal during this evaluation process.


- Each organization may have its unwritten rules, priorities, and unique needs. It's beneficial to gather insights from a trusted resource about company culture and expectations, which can aid in your personal branding.


- Be prepared for interviews and discussions regarding your vision and understanding of the role, as a storytelling coach can help you articulate your thoughts clearly and effectively.

Step 9: Continuous Learning about Compliance changes

- Once appointed, it’s essential to stay updated with changes in laws and best practices in corporate governance, much like a storytelling coach stays current with the latest techniques in business storytelling. 


- As an independent director, adhere to ethical standards and compliance requirements while also recognizing the importance of personal branding in your professional narrative.

Step 10: Engage in Board Meetings and Contribute Effectively

- Participate actively in board meetings, offering objective viewpoints that contribute to strategic decision-making, much like a storytelling coach would guide narratives in business storytelling.


- Uphold the interests of all stakeholders, including minority shareholders, while also enhancing personal branding through transparent communication.

Step 11: Stay Updated

- Conflicts of Interest: Be vigilant about potential conflicts of interest and maintain independence in your judgments and decisions, especially when it comes to personal branding in business storytelling. 


- Digital Dexterity: Develop digital dexterity and learn AI-based tools to enhance your effectiveness as a storytelling coach. 


- Corporate Knowledge and Trends: It's useful to read magazines and newsletters like Board Stewardship to stay up to date with new developments and trends in business storytelling.

How to Become an Independent Director in India

In this episode of Board Talks, we dive deeper into the journey of becoming an Independent Director. We explore essential steps, key skills, and strategic insights, including the importance of business storytelling and personal branding, that can help you carve out a successful career as an Independent Director. Whether you're already on a board or aspiring to join one, this episode will provide valuable advice from a storytelling coach. Don't miss these insider tips that could accelerate your boardroom journey!

Differences in Personal Branding : Independent vs Executive

Find out more

Personal Branding Coach and Business Storytelling Expert

Please reach us at amit@dramitnagpal.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

 Here are steps to increase your chances of an  appointment/ board seat invitation:

  • Networking: Build relationships with industry leaders, board members, and promoters.
  • Profile Enhancement: Craft a compelling professional profile showcasing your governance skills, industry expertise, and leadership.
  • Registration and Visibility: Register on the IICA Independent Directors’ Database and platforms like NSE Prime.
  • Continuous Learning: Stay updated on corporate governance trends, legal requirements, and industry insights through relevant training and certifications.
  • Build a Strong Personal Brand: Write a book. Speak at MBA institutes and associations. Create content on corporate governance


 Independent Directors are responsible for:

  • Governance: Ensuring the company adheres to ethical practices and complies with regulatory frameworks.
  • Risk Oversight: Monitoring risks, including financial, operational, and reputational.
  • Stakeholder Interest: Representing the interests of minority shareholders and other stakeholders.
  • Strategic Input: Providing unbiased and strategic guidance to the board and management.
  • Auditing and Transparency: Reviewing financial statements, audit reports, and ensuring transparency in operations.


 

To qualify as an Independent Director in India, the following are typically required:

  • Regulatory Qualifications: As per the Companies Act, 2013, you must register on the Independent Director’s Database maintained by the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) and pass an online proficiency test unless exempt due to prior board experience.
  • Professional Experience: A strong track record in senior leadership roles across fields like finance, law, corporate strategy, governance, or industry expertise is crucial.
  • Key Skills:
    • Corporate governance and compliance knowledge
    • Strategic thinking and decision-making
    • Financial literacy and risk management
    • Ethical leadership and communication skills


 

Independent Directors are primarily liable for:

  • Compliance Failures: Ensuring that the company follows laws and regulations; liability arises if directors act negligently or knowingly participate in wrongdoing.
  • Due Diligence: Directors must act with due diligence and cannot escape liability for negligence in their duties.
  • Protection Mechanisms:
    • D&O (Directors and Officers) insurance can mitigate financial risks.
    • The Companies Act provides immunity for decisions taken in good faith.

 Independent Directors can safeguard themselves through several actions such as Constructive Dissent:

  • Learn to voice dissent respectfully when decisions conflict with governance principles. Submit a dissent note when you don't agree with the decision of the majority


Independent Directors as Voices of Change

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Best Practices for Independent Directors

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