In 2014, while working from my Noida office, I received a call from St. Mary’s School in Varanasi. The school was eager to implement psychometric testing for its teachers—and the principal herself, Sister Benedicta, wanted to meet with someone from Maanasdhara to discuss how we could help.
The Beginning of a Partnership
Just three days later, I boarded a train to Varanasi and presented myself at the school. After a brief wait, I was invited into the principal’s office and sat down with Sister Benedicta. Our conversation was succinct but productive, and we swiftly scheduled a pen-and-paper psychometric test for the following week. Our dedicated team conducted the test with precision, and by the end of the day, the completed sheets were in our hands.
The Waiting Game and a Valuable Lesson in Time
Before leaving, Sister Benedicta inquired about the timeline for the reports. I had estimated a 20-day turnaround, considering the rigorous evaluation by two expert psychologists and the subsequent report compilation. However, nearly 35 days passed before I returned with the finalized reports and certificates. When I arrived around noon, Sister Benedicta had me wait for an entire hour. Her frustration was palpable—she admonished, “You corporate people… do not understand the value of time.” I listened patiently, accepting the rebuke as part of the process.
Turning Critique into Collaboration
After her initial scolding, she meticulously reviewed the reports—reading one, then a second, and finally a third. Soon, she called someone away for a brief discussion. When she returned, she said, “Mr. Amit, I have arranged a short teachers’ meeting after school, and I would like you to present the certificates to the teachers personally.” It was a humbling moment. During the meeting, with a microphone in hand, Sister Benedicta publicly acknowledged the quality of our work, emphasizing that excellence takes time.
A Lasting Partnership
That day marked the beginning of a long and fruitful partnership. Following the success of the initial teacher assessments, our services expanded to include psychometric tests for non-teaching staff as well as Class 10 and 12 students. Through Sister Benedicta’s grace and referrals, Maanasdhara has since been privileged to serve numerous schools in the region.
Reflections
This experience not only reinforced our commitment to quality and thoroughness but also taught us the invaluable lesson of aligning our corporate timelines with the expectations of our clients. That honest mistakes are excused and actually may be foundation stones of trust. Today, Sister Benedicta remains a cherished friend—a testament to the power of trust, perseverance, and mutual respect. Thank you Sister Beni.. Blessed to have you as a dear friend.
This success story is a reminder that quality work, though sometimes demanding in time, creates lasting relationships and drives transformative results in education.
Dr. Amit Kumar Singh
Founder, Maanasdhara Solutions
