Two Years, One Incredible Journey

As I complete two years at CARS24, I’ve been reflecting on what a rewarding and transformational journey this has been for me, personally and professionally. Working in the automotive industry, which is largely male-dominated, hasn’t always been easy, but it’s definitely been worth it. And today, I want to share my story not just to celebrate milestones, but to hopefully inspire a few others along the way.

Starting Up in a New Space 

When I joined CARS24, I knew I wanted to create something impactful. I saw potential in areas no one had really tapped into before. That’s how the Challan service and Car Truth came into picture. These are two of the most interesting features of what we do at CARS24. 

However, these services weren’t part of our core offerings at the time when we launched it. But I realized we could use our existing capabilities, our knowledge, people, and tech; and build profitable solutions for non-captive customers. It was a bold move, but one that’s now paying off. Today, these services are sustainable and growing, proving that innovation doesn’t always mean reinventing the wheel, it can also mean finding new ways to use what you already have.

This became possible mainly because of the culture in place: there is an openness to hear new ideas and suggestions. And it speaks volumes about our founders, and the values they have encouraged, that are enabling more and more female leaders, as we speak. We are sincerely working towards establishing gender parity. 

Embodying CARS24 Values Every Day 

Auto industry is an exciting sector and used cars space in India, more so. Thanks to technology, we are positively changing the way people look at “second-hand” cars, particularly in India. This stitches in well with our long-term vision of ‘better drives, better lives’.

I genuinely feel proud to work at a place where the company values align so well with my own:

• Be Ambitious: Launching 5 new services from scratch? That ambition paid off
• Spark Love: I believe in building experiences that people talk about inside and outside the company
• Feel Accountable: I own up to my wins and my mistakes, equally

These three values particularly have shaped me more than I can say. I've learned not just how to build a business but how to be a better version of myself. 

Principles I Live By

Throughout this journey, I’ve followed a few principles that have guided me through and through –

• Do the Real Work:  Focus on actual outcomes, not appearances 
• People over Position: Influence comes from how you treat people, not your title; the best solutions can come from the unlikeliest places
• Break the Ladder:  Hierarchies don’t build innovation, collaboration does
• Grow Greatness:  Find top talent, and create space for them to thrive
• Keep Learning -  Stay open and everyone you meet has something to teach you

Final thoughts

If you are a woman looking to grow in any field, especially one that’s mostly helmed by men, just know this: you absolutely can. You don’t need to act a certain way or fit a mold. All you need to do is be curious, stay focused, and continue pushing boundaries. 

After all, irrespective of your gender, you bring something unique to the table. You simply need to know better and own it. 

Success doesn’t come from being loud, it mostly comes from being clear, committed, and consistent. Your voice matters. Your work matters. And your journey? That’s completely yours to define.

Lastly, I am deeply grateful to everyone at CARS24 who has been a part of my journey so far. Here’s to continuous learning, meaningful growth, and building more and more in the years ahead!