Why this smartphone boss called time on saying yes to everything

Why this smartphone boss called time on saying yes to everything

From 15 Minutes with the Boss by The Australian Financial Review

May 25, 2026 · 18 min · Season 4 · Episode 17

About this episode

Praveena Raman discusses her journey from a 'yes person' to understanding the value of saying no in her career.

Praveena Raman, the head of Motorola in Australia and New Zealand, is a self-described yes person.  At the start of her career as an engineer, the “say yes to everything” mindset opened doors to pivotal opportunities that would set her on the path to becoming an executive. But a crucial piece of advice also made the smartphone boss realise the importance of saying no. On this week’s episode, BOSS editor Sally Patten sits down with the country head of the eighth-largest smartphone manufacturer globally to find out why she decided to shift her mindset. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People in this episode

Host: Sally Patten

Guest: Praveena Raman

Topics covered

  • career development
  • leadership
  • decision making
  • mindset shift
  • business strategy

Keywords

  • Praveena Raman
  • Motorola
  • leadership
  • decision making
  • career advice

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Motorola

Places: Australia, New Zealand, eighth-largest smartphone manufacturer

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