In our run-up to International Women’s Day, we profile women who are making their mark in different worlds, both in the world of real estate and outside it.
Women have always been the key decision makers when it comes to home buying, believes Gunjan Goel, Director of Media and Marketing Communications at Goel Ganga Developments.
In an exclusive interview, RoofandFloor celebrates her journey in the real estate sector.
Tell us something about your journey. What inspired you to a career in the male-dominated real estate sector?
My father and family members were pioneers in real estate, and that’s the world I was born into. Initially, I thought of becoming an architect because the thought of creating homes for people was so beautiful! Growing up, however, I was drawn more to the advertising part of the business.
My three years of college gave me an opportunity to work as a marketing and PR assistant with renowned multinational brands, which strengthened my skill sets further. After graduating, I naturally fitted into the family business.
Do you think the number of women homebuyers is increasing? If yes, what are the possible reasons?
Women had always been the key decision makers when it comes to home buying– as a wife or a mother. Now, with more women showing their worth across industries at work, they are even more confident and independent to make this decision even alone.
Women, today, want to secure their future and real estate has always been the best place to invest one’s money. As a result, we have definitely seen growth in the number of women buyers over the last couple of years.
What is your mantra for success?
There is never a single mantra that works. You have to keep innovating to find out the right combination. For me, being surrounded by my family and well-wishers does wonders in terms of motivation to work harder and perform better.
Also, I always try and enjoy the task ahead of me than look at it as a chore!
In your free time, what do you do?
I have a passion for classical music, and I have been learning classical music for a couple of years now. Apart from that, I love reading and watching TV shows.
I am also actively involved in two major national organisations- one is CREDAI, and the other one is Young Indians. I work on a couple of committees in CREDAI, one of which is an incubation cell to encourage more female counterparts to learn and work in real estate.
I was recently appointed Co-Chair at Young Indians for the Pune Chapter. It is a body of CII that brings together a strong group of entrepreneurs to make the changes we want to see.
Tell us that one thing that nobody knows about Gunjan Goel.
I find happiness in the smallest of things and gestures.
Your advice for RoofandFloor women readers.
Take the leap!
Real estate offers great learning opportunities. The challenges only make you stronger, so do not hesitate to take the plunge. If you are confident, committed, and focused, there is absolutely nothing that can obstruct your path to success.