Ruchi Aggarwal: The Importance of Clear Communication in Business

Ruchi Aggarwal, a graduate from the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, shared her story online that got people talking. She learned something big when she started her job at a global consulting firm: her MBA degree didn’t prepare her for real-life work.

In her first client meeting, Ruchi was nervous. She had written down 15 ideas to help the client, thinking it was smart to give options, like a menu. But the partner in the meeting stopped her and said, “Ruchi, just tell me the one thing we should do.” She was taken aback and realized that in real business, top leaders want clear and straightforward answers, not many choices. This is what she calls the “executive filter.”

Ruchi explained that business schools focus on knowing a lot of information, but in real life, it’s more important to communicate ideas clearly. She said, “Success isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about having the right ones and saying them in an easy way.”

Her story struck a chord with others, especially people who have been through business school and work in consulting. One person commented, “In the beginning, I thought offering too many options showed I was smart. Later, I learned no one has time for that.” Another agreed, saying, “At the end of the day, it’s about explaining your idea clearly so decisions can be made easier.”