What led you to start Aria Communication, can you tell us about your background?
Hailing from a humble background, I’ve seen many rejections and failures that have motivated me to climb the ladder of success. As a girl child, I earned my education based on scholarships. My academic journey made me tough because I always had to work extra hard to achieve something. Probably because of this childhood, I grew up mentally strong and ready to take life’s challenges by its horns. Post-graduation, I worked in the aviation industry and after completing my studies in advertising and public relations, I had a PR stint with a company where my career graph changed completely. I manifested my dreams and passion into reality with Aria’s communication.
As a woman entrepreneur, what were the ups and downs of your journey?
The beginning of the journey was most unwelcoming as the PR industry was largely driven by men. Without a business background, building a strong network was a struggle. Coping with the fear of failures, and small defeats, and balancing personal and professional life amidst the chaos were some of the challenges. Behind every successful woman is a progressive man. For a woman entrepreneur family support means a lot and I am blessed to have that from my husband.
What challenges and judgments did you face when you entered the PR field at a young age?
Life throws many challenges but opportunity knocks once and we should grab it when it comes. In the initial years, I lost a lot of business to other agencies because the clients felt I was too young for the job. I aimed to change the narrative and prove that if one has the dedication, discipline and the right objectives, one can overcome the toughest challenges.
What do you believe sets Aria Communication apart from other PR firms?
We are more focused on quality over quantity even after completing 16 years of business since inception. Time management, dedication and ensuring that we eat, drink, and sleep the client are our ethos.
What advice do you have for women who are interested in starting their own businesses, particularly in the PR or communications industry?
There is something unique about women-led businesses. Successful women have the backing of like-minded, strong women. In my firm, we have a 95 % women workforce and I proudly support their empowerment. For women trying to make it into the communication or PR industry, it is important to understand that this industry changes rapidly and it is important that you are equipped with knowledge of trends in the domestic as well as global market.
Shared by : SHWETA POWAR,
Founder & CEO, ARIA COMMUNICATION
