In the dynamic world of business, few entrepreneurs manage to successfully navigate multiple industries simultaneously. Pooja Agarwal stands out as a remarkable exception. From Jewellery to Entertainment, Pooja has left her indelible mark across diverse sectors. As the driving force behind a jewellery business, a mall, a multiplex cinema, and an exclusive club, she embodies the spirit of versatility and innovation in entrepreneurship.
In this exclusive interview with Womenshine, we delve into the mind of this extraordinary businesswoman. Pooja Agarwal shares her insights on managing a multi-faceted business empire, the challenges she’s overcome, and her vision for the future. Her story is not just one of success, but of resilience, adaptability, and unwavering determination.
Join us as we explore the journey of a woman who has redefined the boundaries of entrepreneurship in India.
WS: What inspired you to venture into such diverse business sectors from jewellery to entertainment?
PA: Both the jewellery and entertainment industries are rapidly expanding and always presenting new challenges and breakthroughs.Accessories are being added to jewellery, and multiplexes and malls are introducing new international brands, improved ambiance, and opulent food courts.
I embrace new ideas and challenges every day, and I look forward to any new opportunities to expand my business network.
WS: How do you balance your time and energy between your various enterprises?
PA: My two main sources of energy are my job and my home.Thus, it emerges organically, much like my meals.when I’m not required to balance.Their unique involvements help me maintain a healthy lifestyle. I want to pass away as Ambani, not as a straightforward businesswoman or middle-class housewife.
My husband Mr. Ankush Agarwal has been a mentor in my life and my mother in law Mrs. Shashi Agrawal has been like a supporting pillar of our family. Without her support this wouldn’t have been possible.
She takes full care of my kids plus the showroom as well. Kids love dadi. If they want anything they will demand from her not me.
WS: What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a woman entrepreneur in India, and how did you overcome it?
PA:When someone advised me that I ought to spend more time with my children, I took it personally. “Quality” and “quantity” are never the same. Both of my children are performing excellently in school and extracurricular activities.
The older daughter has been recognized as a subject topper at Lamarts for the past two years. In addition, they are learning a variety of sports and activities, including basketball, Taekwondo, tennis, swimming, dancing, and chess. So, it relies on how you manage your life’s balance. Furthermore, without the help of family, this would not have been feasible.
WS: Can you share a pivotal moment in your career that shaped your approach to business?
PA:The turning point came when, following my marriage, I began working as a teacher—my ideal profession.My spouse intervened and advised me to become an Entrepreneur, instead of working for an employer.We will open a good college someday, he remarked. Thus, he helped me to think broadly in order to expand my skills.
WS: How do you foster innovation across your different businesses?
PA: Every company has a fresh idea for innovation.It comes easily, just as the Buddha’s life-changing enlightening idea did.
WS: What strategies do you employ to stay competitive in each of your distinct markets?
PA: Take note of the psychology and thinking of your customers.Advertising and low-cost offerings should be the first phase. At par deals should come in second. Profitable prices should then be provided in accordance with growing demands at various phases and market demands when you receive a response.
WS: How has your leadership style evolved as you’ve expanded into different industries?
PA: A leader is someone that the team members like and trust.Every employee so has my personal number.They are welcome to phone me at any time.They are always flawless throughout their duty hours because they know I might drop by at any time.I spend every holiday with them.They are my friends first, and I only take charge when they treat me with such dignity.
WS: What advice would you give to young women entrepreneurs looking to diversify their business portfolios?
PA:You only matter when you can demonstrate your worth.Only if you value yourself in line with today’s world would your own parents or any other family member value you.Work until your last breath, then.Teach your children to work for a living rather than seeking work abroad or in other countries.Take responsibility for yourself.
WS: How do you measure success across your various ventures?
PA: In fact, my spouse always says, “I haven’t started yet,” which makes me want to quote him. Because you will stop growing farther the moment you believe you have met your goals or are accomplished enough to take a seat back, unwind, and enjoy the ride.
Every day, set lofty goals and pursue them. The sky’s the limit.
WS: In your experience, what are the biggest differences and similarities in running a Jewellery Showroom versus a mall or a cinema multiplex?
PA: The primary distinction between a jewellery store and a movie theatre or shopping mall is that when a customer visits the former, he has already chosen the film or is familiar with the mall’s brands.However, he views jewellery as a lifetime investment, so when making a purchase, he makes the greatest decision possible and selects from a variety of other possibilities if he’s not satisfied.For jewellery, therefore, careful and individualised attention is always needed for each individual buyer, which is not feasible in the case of large crowds for a mall or multiplex.
But in the current environment, all three organisations are competitive.Old jewellery stores with outdated designs and malls have been replaced by new brands and concept enterprises.
As a result, you must constantly stay current and approach the industry as a respectable service sector, keeping in mind that consumers are always the ones who suffer.
WS: Looking ahead, what’s your vision for the future of your businesses, and are there any new sectors you’re considering entering?
PA: As promised, I will visit a new business every two years.I want to live the next 40 years or so in wonderful health.You can thus plan your next 20 opening celebrations for the following 40 years, but the next 20 businesses are still to come and cannot be discussed at this time.
Please remember the dates in advance. I’ll see you in my upcoming 20 business alerts. You’re all invited.
Team WS
