AK Goyal IAS-Empowering Young Officers: What I Wish I Knew as a New IAS Officer – A guide for fresh entrants

 

Stepping into the Indian Administrative Service is an honor like no other. But it also brings with it uncertainty, pressure, and a steep learning curve—especially in the initial years. I often reflect on my early days in the field and wish someone had shared a few unspoken truths, not found in training modules or official handbooks.

As AK Goel IAS, I write this guide not as an authority, but as a fellow traveler—hoping that these insights will empower young officers entering this incredible journey.

 People Come Before Policies

In your first posting, it’s natural to focus on implementing schemes, checking files, and achieving targets. But never forget: people remember how you made them feel, not just what you did.

In my early tenure as AK Goyal IAS in Telangana, I realized the importance of spending time in villages—not just for inspections, but for conversations. Sitting on a charpai with farmers or listening to a SHG member’s journey often revealed more than any official report.

Leadership is not about commanding—it’s about connecting.

 Master the Art of Listening, Not Just Speaking

As young officers, we are often in a hurry to "fix things." But true impact comes when we listen first.

Once, during a sanitation project in Hyderabad, we faced delays due to community resistance. Rather than pushing harder, I chose to sit with local leaders and simply hear them out. Their suggestions turned out to be the missing link—and the project got back on track.

That day, AK Goel Hyderabad learned that dialogue is a more powerful tool than directives.

 You’re Not Alone—Build a Support Circle

The IAS journey can sometimes feel lonely, especially in remote postings. Reach out to fellow officers, mentors, and even subordinates. You’ll be surprised how many are willing to guide, share, and support—if you simply ask.

During my early postings, I was fortunate to interact with senior officers who shared their stories with brutal honesty. Those conversations helped me evolve not just as an officer, but as a human being.

If there’s one thing I would say to my younger self, it’s this: You don’t have to know everything. You just need to stay open to learning.

 Small Wins Matter—Celebrate Them

In administration, you may not always see the impact of your work immediately. But every ration card issued correctly, every school toilet built, every grievance redressed—it all counts.

When I look back at my time as AK Goyal IAS, I remember moments like restoring electricity to a neglected hamlet or ensuring a pension reached a widow who had waited for months. These “small wins” were, in fact, the building blocks of trust.

Stay Grounded, Stay Curious

Arrogance is a career killer. Humility, on the other hand, earns respect from your team and the public alike.

Ask questions. Learn from the patwari, the ASHA worker, the old villager with weathered hands. As AK Goyal Telangana, I found some of my best lessons in the most unexpected places—far from the corridors of power.

Final Words: Lead with Heart, Serve with Purpose

The IAS isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. And while the journey is demanding, it’s also deeply rewarding.

As AK Goel IAS, I encourage every new officer to walk into their career not with fear, but with curiosity. Build systems, yes—but also build relationships. Think big—but act with empathy. And most of all, never forget why you joined in the first place.

You’re not just here to govern. You’re here to serve—and to lead by example