Beauty Pageants are the ultimate dream for any girl who has ever dreamt of being a princess because that’s what you feel like when you win a beauty pageant. One such dream was dreamt by Anjana Mascarenhas. However, in the hustle-bustle of her daily life duties as a corporate employee, he never could be part of a beauty pageant. But as they say “The Busy Bee has no time for sorrow”, Anjana started her own Boutique in Pune by the name of DIVA and soon Anjana Mascarenhas was a renowned name amongst the affluent & social elites of Pune who were active in 90’s fashion scene.
Running a business is a task in itself and on top of that handling responsibilities of being a wife & a mother is a task even the best multitaskers tend to fail at. But Anjana was no quitter and managed to not only successfully run the business but to take it to newer heights no other Fashion designer had achieved, at least not in India where working women were still being frowned at and people hesitated from letting their daughters work.
Karl Mascarenhas, the better half of Anjana Mascarenhaswas just the pillar of support that she needed. Karl Mascarenhashas handled senior-level positions in Marketing, Business Development & Public Relations with some of India’s top Organizations such as Oberoi Group of Hotels, GTL Limited, Frankfinn Institute of Air Hostess Training, INDUS International School and Image Consulting Business Institute (ICBI) wanted his wife to participate in the Gladrags Mrs. India. This proposition led her to a new problem, she needed someone to train her for the Pageant. After a lot of soul searching, she realized who could better coach her than herself. Following this, she did a 2-week professional course in the field of pageant coaching.
In the year 2014, DIVA
Pageants was set up by Managing Director, Anjana Mascarenhas and Marketing Director,
Karl Mascarenhas. The purpose of establishing DIVA was promoting, supporting
and giving care to the positive self-image by enhancing the natural beauty
within.
The 1st pageant was titled “DIVA Mrs. Pune 2016” and was held at the Residency Club garnering an attendance of over 500!
Realizing Pageantry changes lives, Anjana was motivated towards making DIVA Pageants as a global brand and transforming the lives of women across India.. and the World.
Come
2019, she has flawlessly groomed several pageants and brought many glorious
Crowns to our country, She is currently running 3 pageants in the country –
Mrs. Maharashtra-Empress of Maharashtra,
Mrs. West India-Empress of West India,
Mrs. India-Empress of Nation.
Anjana not only has developed a positive aura around herself but
also for her Pageants.
Diva’s pageantry program is designed for today’s Women – celebrating their
diversity and individuality. Ladies are encouraged to grow exponentially and
expand their ideas about what they want to achieve. It is a once in a lifetime
opportunity to learn, to grow, to challenge yourself, engage with your
community, and fight for an important cause.
Through
DIVA, she wants every contestant to realize that she truly can take hold of her
dreams and turn them into reality. DIVA is renowned for hosting some of the
biggest pageants in Maharashtra, spreading all over India.
DIVA
pageants give women the fathomable experience,
driving
them to *Dare *Dream and *Dazzle, which is commendable in itself.
All in all, if you have the will and determination to achieve something you can do it and there is nothing that can stop you!
Do you
want to learn how to turn every adversity into a stepping stone to live the
life of your dreams?
Do you want to
establish your own business? Is the lack of capital and experience giving you
sleepless nights? Trust me when I say it is the right time to take the first
step.
You can never acquire enough money or experience to ensure venture success. I believe it is a development process. You can learn the tricks of the trade once you become a part of the business sector.
Investment and
experience play a vital role to pave the path for the growth of your business.
My experience highlights that you should take out time to make the necessary
preparations in advance. Then you can reach a state when experience and money
offer additional support. I try to help young entrepreneurs as much as I can. I
suggest that they create a list of points to remember,
which makes the process smooth.
Conversing with my associates allows me to widen my knowledge horizon. Such an informative discussion with Ms. Sandeep Sagar offered vital information about startup establishment and operations. I hope these points help budding business owners to reach their goals.
Why India Needs More Startups?
The Indian
market depends on the ups and downs of the international trade sector. My
knowledge and experience state that it is the appropriate time to establish
your startup. India offers all the resources that you require to set up and run
the venture.
Even the Prime
Minister of our country mentions that any business can pave the path for
revenue generation. There is no shortage of educated candidates in India.
However, the job market cannot cope with the high demands. Startups can provide
jobs to suitable candidates. They can counter the unemployment issues with
ease.
Famous startups in India attract the attention of foreign investors. They realise that the Indian market can offer them high returns. Small and medium Indian companies can widen their base with foreign investment. It also boosts the national GDP growth. I suggest that you make the necessary business policy alterations to gain foreign funding.
20 Considerations for a
Successful Business
The idea that you can call big shots in your company can fill your heart with excitement. It is best to overcome the initial thrill. The road ahead is rather difficult. I suggest you put a lid on the enthusiasm and save it for the future. Here is the checklist for successful startups as per my professional experience.
1.
Determine Whether the Plan Is Practical
My associates
and I consider that the chance of business success depends on a bankable idea.
If you possess a vision, then you can work to turn it into a lucrative venture.
But you must ensure that the idea can generate interest among the target
clients. If you do not get a positive response from the customers, the venture
cannot survive for long.
2.
Create a Business Strategy
Experts often
suggest that the business structure is the backbone of the agency. I nurture
the same view. You may lack the skills to chalk out a sound business plan. You
can consult with the business analysts. They can collect the data and create a
strategy that ensures success in the market. Many famous startups in Indiaconsult
with business advisors on a regular basis.
3. Analyze Market Reports
Market research is vital, as per my experience. I suggest that every business enthusiast must opt for market research. Several independent agencies can assist you with it. The agency can organize surveys and collect data from the market. The report analysis sheds light on what the target customers want. The market assessment is important for entrepreneurs.
4.
Arrange Business Capital
Once you have a
sound and watertight plan, you can take the next step. Adequate finance can
help you at this stage. Business enthusiasts have access to some funds. If you
do not have economic resources, you can opt for bank loans. If the banks reject
your application, then my company can help you. We can raise funds and give you
details of interested investors.
5.
Gather Support from Like-Minded People
I think that you must not embark on this mission alone. It may seem easy, but the truth is far from this. It is best to pitch the business plan in front of your family members and friends. They may realize the potential of the venture. If you do not get financial assistance, you will get moral support from your well-wishers.
6.
Select an Appropriate Brand Name
I think you can
attract the attention of the clients with the company name. Opt for an
attractive and unique brand name. It must possess the power to make the clients
curious. You need to ensure that the name gives a hint to the target clients.
As their interest grows, they can look for your services online. It is the best
way to create a base before the launch of the company.
7.
Complete the Necessary Registrations
Once you have the business plan, capital, and name, you can complete the official registrations. You must register the agency and get GST documents. You require a trade license and business PAN card. Apart from this, you need to open a bank account in the name of the company. I urge budding business owners to complete the official procedures. It reduces the chances of legal entanglements.
8.
Initiate Revenue Generation
Most startup
owners do not have adequate money in business funds. I think that you can use
every possible source to generate revenue. The money you gather will go into
the business development funds. The initial months may be difficult, but you
must maintain hope. A virtual search with the keywords “best startups to work
for in India” offers in-depth information.
9.
Get Office Space
Most youngsters
follow the online business trend. It is a good way to start a venture and save
money. Once you create a client base, you need office space. I think you must
not wait until then. Get a suitable office on rent in the commercial area. If
you possess good bargaining skills, you can request to lower the commercial
space rent.
10.
Offline Promotion
Once you tick
off this from the checklist, you must focus on offline promotion. Pamphlets
distribution and OFH promotions can help in information dissemination. I know
that offline marketing strategies are expensive. But these advertisement modes
offer target clients the necessary information. When they learn about the
service you offer, they can opt for it. I suggest that you allocate a certain
budget for traditional marketing.
11.
Create Robust Online Presence
Digital marketing is the latest promotional mode for small and established business owners. You can exercise control of the advertisement budget. I recommend it for those who want to maximize reach and get leads at reasonable rates. You must hire digital marketing experts to create and run your online campaigns. Apart from this, you can acquire leads from the portal and social media business profiles.
12.
Good/Service Manufacture
If you want to
create and maintain a wide client base, then offer the best good and service.
You must contact the good or service manufactures and crack a deal. Client
satisfaction also comes under the tips for successful startups.
Your venture cannot stay afloat for long if you fail to make the customers
happy with the goods/services.
13.
Service Delivery
If you operate
an online business, you need to make the necessary arrangements to deliver the
goods/services. You must form an official pack with a reputed courier company.
When a client books a particular good or service, the courier company can
deliver the item. You must instruct the courier company to ensure proper
delivery. I recommend that you offer free delivery facilities for the
clients.
14.
Hire Experienced Employees
Whether you run a traditional or portal-based venture, you cannot tackle the various aspects alone. I recommend that you hire experienced professionals to assist with business operations. You can put a specific department under the expert’s charge. Many youngsters want to work in the startups as these offer the opportunity for growth. I suggest that such candidates look for the best startups to work for in India on the internet.
15.
Control Good/Service Quality
After you start
your business, you must keep a close watch on the service quality. My
experience highlights that most startups go wrong in this sector. Once the
company becomes popular, the service quality drops. It leads to the downfall of
the venture. If you want to keep it at bay, then maintain top-notch
quality.
16.
Pay Attention to Product Pricing
I witnessed how
good companies failed to capture the market as they went haywire with product
pricing. Too high as well as too low cost can discourage potential clients. You
need proper market research to figure out the rivals’ prices. If you sell the
same goods/services at reasonable rates, then you can get an overwhelming
response. The price of the product depends on several aspects.
17.
Monitor Business Bank Account
I know that it is rather challenging to monitor the inflow and outflow of revenue. If you do not desire to hire an accountant, then I have some tips for you. You need a separate bank account for the business. You must record income and expenditure every day. You can use specialized software that makes the task easy. You must not use money from the business development fund for personal reasons.
18.
Increase Client base
I do not have a set answer to the question ‘how to become a profitable startup.’ Success is a relative term. It means different things to different individuals. If you can make your customers happy, then that is a real success. Happy clients can promote your business, and this increases your client base.
19.
Tackle Criticism in a Positive Way
Not all clients may offer positive feedback. If you get negative reviews, then assess your goods and services. You can contact the clients and apologist for the inconvenience. You must ask the client about the issue. You need to work for longer hours to ensure the client’s satisfaction. It not only boosts your reputation but also helps you to perfect the services.
20.
Consult with the Experts
All these can be
rather complicated for young business enthusiasts. You can consult with the
business experts for doubt clarification. My associates and I will be glad to
point you in the correct direction.
Do you require market analysis reports before a product launch? Are you looking for investors? Do you require a business mentor? If yes, then you need to contact the experts, associated with Evolvers. Apart from these facilities, business specialists can impart knowledge and help with global reach.
So, you have finally established your dream
venture. Congratulations! You have a game plan that offers the exposure you
require. Your primary aim as a business owner is to generate profit. Right?
Passionate entrepreneurs like me, find it challenging to share business control.
However, correct assistance from a partner can enhance the business.
Over the years, I worked with good as well
as bad business partners. I was young and lacked the expertise to select skilled
business partners. With time, I mastered the art of how to choose the best business
partner. I can share some great tips, which may assist you to get a good
partner. A competent business associate can add value to the venture and reduce
the financial burdens.
Is the Individual
Dependable?
Most young entrepreneurs ask me how to select right
business partner. I believe no company can
succeed without trust among the associates. The two partners must cooperate and
be on the same page. You must check whether you can depend on the individual
with crucial tasks. A dependable associate can understand your ambition and
passion.
He/she can provide new and
innovative ideas. You can ask the associate to take care of a certain
business-related task. His/her prompt and dedicated actions can shed light on
the trust aspect. If you are happy with the effort that the associate puts in,
then make an official agreement. The best business expertsopine
that lack of trust between partners pave the path for 85% of ventures’
downfall.
Is
the Individual Responsible?
If you want to expand your
venture, then work with a responsible associate. I think that two responsible
individuals can form best
business partnerships. They complement and challenge each other. It
drives them to work harder. It, in turn, generates more revenue for your
business. A responsible business associate can share the work load.
Financial
Contribution
I think that business partners must contribute money for business development. It is best to join hands with an associate who has access to cash. Financial soundness is essential criteria for choosing business partners. Partners need to pool in their monetary resources when it becomes necessary. You cannot run a business without economic backup. It is here that you require a partner.
Develop
a Friendship
Like me, the best business experts believe that friendship can foster a stronger bond between the business associates. Develop a relation that transcends profit sharing. You need to invest time to create a personal link with your partner.
A personal bond solidifies
your business association. The partners of top startups in India are good friends in the personal
circuits. A business partner tries to safeguard his/her investment. But a
friend can point you in the right direction.
Urge
to Sign a Contract
Apart from these characteristics of good business
partners, I can shed light on another essential aspect. Once you
finalise your business partner, you must prepare a legal agreement. It
highlights the partnership details. The document also tests whether you are
compatible with one another.
A proficient associate takes an interest in the contract draft. He/she can make some alterations. Eagerness to sign a business contract is a positive sign. I hope you can get an idea about how to find the right business partner once you read my blog. Do you desire to expand your business? Do you want to partner up with like-minded individuals? It is the right time to contact the specialists, associated with Evolvers. You can acquire business contacts and form business partnerships. The agency experts can take the necessary steps to raise funds for your venture.
Not all can cope with the pressures of the 9 to 5 corporate scenarios. I got the opportunity to become a part of this corporate wheel at a young age. Soon, I realized that it was not my cup of tea. I was unable to make optimum use of my skills. If you feel the same, then you are a born entrepreneur. The business magazines can give ideas about which are the most successful start-ups.
I come across many people every day. Some assume that digital marketing techniques make it easy for youngsters to start their online companies. The truth is far from this. Digital marketing strategies offer new avenues for promotion. I believe that one must gather knowledge and experience before they start any business. You must realize which industry is best for start-ups.
My experience
highlights that if you fail to select a profitable sector, then you cannot
function for long. I give stress on the development of a bankable idea and
sound business planning. You must think about investing in start-ups once
you perfect these aspects. These precautions eliminate the chances of financial
losses.
Tips for a
Profitable Business
If you desire to
make a mark in the business sector, then pay attention to the latest trends. I
gather information about the top 10 start-up companies in India.
Their policies and operation techniques keep me updated about the new
developments. Here are some points which can help you to start your venture.
Arrange Capital for the Business
Many young business enthusiasts ask ‘how can I invest with little money.’ It is not the amount that matters but the way you utilize it. You must talk to experienced business owners and financial advisors. They can provide an investment estimate. Once you arrange the money, you must have to spend it with caution. I suggest you maintain a contingency fund for economic support in the hour of need.
Focus on Market Research
Market research is significant for the health and expansion of your business. My personal experience says you can understand what clients demand. If you fulfill the needs of the clients, your business can take off. It also sheds light on the capital you may require to carry out the operations.
Proper
Promotion is Necessary
Another important task that I believe can make or break your business is an adequate advertisement. You need to promote the goods and services, so that target clients get information. Highlight the positive aspects of your product to attract customers. The top 10 start-up companies in India hire professionals for promotional tasks.
Offer Best
Quality Product
As a customer, I deserve the best quality products. Business owners must be honest in their approach. They cannot operate in the market if they sell sub-standard items. Offer quality services if you want to create a string of loyal clients. Low product or service quality can mar your market reputation as well.
Pay attention
to Clients’ Feedbacks
Most start-ups fail to go a long way as they turn a blind eye to client feedback. Search the internet with ‘which is the best start-up in India.’ Check the profiles of these companies. They focus on the experience of their clients. The customer can suggest points, which can help the business owner. I recommend that you pay attention to your client’s opinions.
Do you want to establish your own business? You require skills and knowledge. You can gather these from the blogs, which we, at Evolvers upload. You can also get in touch with our executives for an in-depth discussion. We ensure that you get potential leads, which help your business to flourish.
Seasoned business-owners opine that it is rather challenging to start and run a business. You need more than a unique and bankable idea that can generate profit. You require sound business plans and capital to initiate the venture. Most young entrepreneurs overlook the importance of networking. If you lack a practical business network, you can never prosper in this competitive field. You need a comprehensive knowledge of business networking.
What
Do You Mean By Business Network
If a have a creative mind and do not shy away from risks, then you can become a successful entrepreneur. Such people feel trapped in a 9 to 5 job sector. If you run your venture, then you have control over each aspect. But being successful as a start-up is not easy. You must understand the ups and downs of the commercial sector. Novice business owners must consult with established experts to gather information.
These business
advisors highlight that if you have a profitable idea and business plan, you
must develop a network. To create a business network, you require the
assistance of other parties. They may be the investors, other business owners
or your patrons. You must gain the confidence of the other parties. Then
encourage them to become a part of a profitable arrangement.
The official
agreement paves the path for business growth. The agreement also provides ample
opportunities for financial gain for the participants. Business networking enables
you to get in touch with interested candidates. You can share your venture idea
with them. The entire process allows you to convert probable clients into loyal
customers. So, top start-ups in India hire
professionals to expand their commercial network.
Is
Networking In Business Easy?
Many individuals think that it is easy to run a business if you have the basic idea and capital. It is far from the truth. Business plans and investment capital become useless if you cannot utilize these with competence. Most successful start-ups in India opt for the guidelines of a business advisor. These experts have access to investors. They can also initiate fundraiser campaigns.
They can charge
a certain sum for these services. These business advisors can help you with how to
build your network. A novice cannot accomplish it without the necessary
expertise. You must spend sufficient time in this arena to learn the skills.
Once you acquire the aptitude, you can run your business networking campaign
without additional assistance.
Perks of Networking in Business
Once you
understand the meaning and purpose of business networking, you need to know its
advantages. A sound commercial network for your venture can pave the path for
its success. You must plan the activities with caution. Here are some benefits
of networking in business.
Acquire New Contacts
The primary purpose of networking is to get in touch with other people in the trade and commerce field. These people may help to develop your venture. Established and start-up company owners must pay attention to networking. It provides them with potential contacts. Proper networking paves the path for the global reach of your business. It ensures better sales and higher revenue generation.
Access to Referrals
Reach is significant
for the success of your venture. Networking opens several avenues to acquire
leads. Apart from direct contacts, you can also get referral leads. It
increases the chances of lead conversion. The referral contacts provide proper
opportunities for business expansion.
Arrange Funds for Business
You cannot predict when you may need funds for your business. Experts suggest that business owners must form strong ties with investors. This advice for entrepreneurs can save the company during the financial crisis. Business networking is the best way to gather investor’s details. You must get as many investors as possible on your side.
If you need
money, the stockholders can pool in resources. They can also organise a
fundraiser. You can utilise the cash to expand your business. When you generate
profit, you can pay the shareholder a certain percentage.
Makes the Brand Visible
Young business
owners worry about the proper representation of the brand. If you desire to
increase brand exposure, then business networking comes in handy. Positive
image creation and more extensive brand exposure are essential advantages
of networking. People want to associate with good brands. Sound business
networking efforts shed light on the ethical aspects of your venture.
Get Good Partners
Once you cement your position in the business arena, it is time for diversification. You can merge with other organisations or invest in other companies. Such investments offer higher returns. You can also start a new venture with another partner. Business networking gives information about feasible options.
Create a Brand Identity
You must keep a
close watch on your rivals. Alert business owners are aware of the rivals’
activities. If you want to stay ahead of your competitors, then invest time in
networking. Proper contacts can inform you about your opponent’s plans and
policies. Understand what
is networking in entrepreneurship for proper competition management and
branding.
Stay Up-To-Date
Information is
the greatest resource in the business sector. You must know the present
condition of the trade and commerce fields. Be aware of the business policies
that the government launches. Well-established company owners rub shoulders
with high placed business officials. It is a business networking tactic.
Adequate networking strategies can create favourable opportunities for your
venture’s development.
Share Knowledge
Young business
owners gather knowledge from books. You require practical in-sight to tackle
various issues. No manual can teach you these tips and tricks expect the
seasoned players. Business networking comes in handy in such cases. People in
your network share their problems and how they overcome them. It becomes a
common ground to gain and disseminate information. Young entrepreneurs can
utilise this knowledge to prevent financial losses.
Solve Business-Relates Issues
A novice start-up owner may lack information about all things that entrepreneurs need to know. Young business owners do not possess the potential to prevent mishaps. If you have access to the right people, they can give practical solutions. So, work on your business networking skills. You never know when you may require someone’s assistance.
Gain Experience
Owners of the most successful start-ups in Indiastress the importance of a strong business network. They opine that beginners can gather adequate experience if they connect with others. Investors and clients can provide potential business development inputs. The young venture owner must assess the potential of these inputs. If you implement these in a flawless manner, then it can help in business expansion.
Boosts Confidence
If you talk to
seasoned business owners, you can realise that they possess immense confidence.
They plan their activities in advance. It gives them time to access the risks,
and they can take necessary measures. If you are a young entrepreneur, you must
associate with such people. These associations can increase your confidence.
Follow their footsteps, and you can become successful in your venture with
proper networking.
Tips To Build Robust Business Connections
You cannot
create an impressive business network within a few months. It takes significant
time as people want to join with successful ventures. You must prove the worth
of your company before you gain contacts. Some companies offer special services
for start-up companies. These agencies gather clients’, investors’, and
advisors’ details. They create your portfolio and send it to suitable people.
Personal Contact Goes a Long Way
Young business
owners depend on virtual platforms to gain the necessary leads. Experts point
out that one-to-one personal association is ideal for business networking.
Probable investors and partners can assess your potential from the body
language and attitude. You also get the opportunity to identify a contact that
matches your profile. When you get in touch with people in person, you can gain
their trust without much hassle.
Pick Business Groups with Caution
Your association
with the contacts says a lot about you and your brand. If you associate with
the wrong business group, it can mar the potential of your business. You must
join business groups, which benefit your company. You must start with local
groups and then proceed with caution.
Use the Social Media Channels
Digital
marketing strategies provide more reach and lead. It also allows you to connect
with like-minded people. You can carry on business networking via social media
channels. These platforms offer a more extensive reach within less time.
Travel for Networking
If you have a small company, then you need to travel for business and networking. Traveling to new places allows you to assess the market potential in those areas. You can also meet with local investors and distributors. They can popularise your product and create its demand. It will enhance your sales and profit. So, keep a travel bag packed at all times. Do you want to start a business? Do you require proper business guidance or investors? Do you want to form a new company with a partner? For these and any business-related requirements, you can contact the experts of Evolvers. The specialists of this agency can empower you with pertinent information. The advisors can guide you to evolve as per the requirements of the current market.
