Is there a master key to success, say a number code, that we have forgotten? If it is so what do we usually do? We keep trying out various combinations randomly, hoping one such would work! Perhaps it will if you are very lucky. 

How does this play out in professional life? Will trying out randomly help? The probability of success of every such attempt is inversely proportional to the complexities and variables in the equation. Throw in a human dimension and it assumes a massive proportion. Hence the need for mastering a Master Key.

The book "The HR Superstar - Unlocking your Master key to Success" by Sridhar Ganesh, serves the purpose of being a very comprehensive reference book to read, reflect and refine the plan of actionfor HR professionals across industries and experience. 

The content is well organised, and the flow of themes makes it an easy book to read. From the beginning of one’s career in HR to making it to the C suite the book has something for everyone.  Of specific interest to me are two aspects - role of HR in building culture and HR getting a meaningful seat at the table. 

Culture is the invisible rock-solid foundation which holds the ever changing, evolving, dynamic organization of people together in pursuit of the purpose of the organisation. Often, I hear CEOs wanting to establish a high-performance culture through consultancy support in three or six months! Culture building takes longer than that. The book addresses the finer aspects of culture building like articulating the aspirations, aligning the values, engaging everyone and eventually becoming flexible enough to adapt to an agile business and talent agenda that transcends geographical and technological boundaries.

The Next important question for HR is what it means to get a seat at the table and what next? Is a seat at the table a responsibility or a reward? When you get there - have you arrived or are you just starting the next leg of the journey? How does an HR professional contribute comprehensively as a member of the leadership team and also maintain the highest levels of professional standards? What does it take to go beyond the HR or talent agenda and take a holistic business point of view? HR Superstar will sure guide your thinking in this direction.

Sridhar has very succinctly presented an approach with real life examples and insights which will certainly be of great value during phases of transition and transformation in the life of an HR professional