Brenton Leavers – the Head of E-commerce at Apeejay Real Estate, shared his valuable insights and experiences, offering a wealth of knowledge for anyone looking to pursue a career in the Indian e-commerce sector. His practical advice and real-world examples provide a clear roadmap for aspiring e-commerce professionals.
Believe in Your Vision:
The E-Commerce Head emphasizes the importance of self-belief. “When you set out with a plan, you need to believe in the plan,” he says. This foundational mind-set is crucial. E-commerce isn’t just about selling products; it’s about having a clear strategy and understanding the broader market. Knowing what you want to sell and how you plan to sell it sets the stage for success.
Understanding the Market:
One of the critical aspects he highlights is understanding the market. This involves:
- Identifying Needs: Know what products are in demand. This requires market research and staying updated with trends.
- Sourcing Products: Find reliable sources to procure products at reasonable prices.
- Differentiating Your Product: Look at customer reviews, especially negative ones, to identify pain points in existing products. Use these insights to improve your offerings. “Take others’ faults and make them your strengths,” he advises.
Technical Know-How:
E-commerce is not just about having a product and a website. It’s about integrating various technical aspects like payment gateways and shipping logistics. The head suggests gaining a basic understanding of these elements. Listening to podcasts and engaging with online resources can be incredibly beneficial.
Learning from Failures:
He stresses the importance of viewing failures as learning opportunities. “There’s nothing called failure. It is a learning in life,” he notes. It’s essential to be patient and persistent. Success might not come from the first product you launch, but continuous effort and learning from mistakes will eventually lead to success.
Future Plans and Market Expansion:
Looking ahead, he plans to expand Apeejay Real Estate’s e-commerce segment globally. This includes launching white-label products and leveraging platforms like Amazon and Walmart. The goal is to sell their own branded products, not just in India but also in markets like the US, Canada, and Europe.
Practical Advice for Aspiring E-commerce Professionals:
For those entering the e-commerce field, he offers some practical tips-
- Stay Updated: Keep abreast of market trends and customer needs.
- Learn Continuously: Engage with industry experts, listen to podcasts, and participate in webinars.
- Network: Connect with other professionals in the field to share insights and gain knowledge.
- Be Patient: Understand that building a successful e-commerce business takes time and persistence.
Conclusion:
We hope that all our digital viewers and audiences benefit from these insights. The Apeejay Real Estate team will again initiate the next interview featuring another vertical. Stay tuned to our blog site and digital platform. As together, we will learn and grow.
