Interview with Nikita Mirchandani from Shop 101

Nikita Mirchandani works as a content writer, marketer and strategist for an e-commerce company Shop 101. She has been a voracious reader since her childhood and at any given day, prefers reading to watching or hearing.

Further, Let us hear from her,

Hello and Welcome Nikita,

Let’s begin with your unique story, could you please share that with us?

Not sure if this would be interesting, but I do think it is unique. I was born in Mumbai. When I was about ten years old, my family decided to shift to the USA. For almost eight years, I lived and studied in the US. After I completed my 12th, my dad decided that we should shift back to our motherland, and so we did. However, in the US, you do not get to choose from any majors until you get to an actual college. So, when I came to India, I had no idea what I wanted to do. My father ended up enrolling me in the newest and upcoming course – Business Management Studies. Normally, a higher education course choice after completing BMS was an MBA, but I did not have an interest in Business or Management and ended up taking a small job that required working with a KPO. At this point, I still had not decided what I wanted to do with my life. A colleague of mine at this workplace was going for a brand new degree that was, newly introduced called Masters of Arts in Communications & Journalism. Back in the US, one of my English teachers had coaxed me to take up Journalism and I almost fell in love with it. I was even the Managing Editor for our HS newspaper called ‘The Tower’. Thinking back to those amazing times, I decided that I could do this course too, and I did. I enjoyed the course but, at the end of it, I realized that I do not particularly, enjoy reporting news. What I did find was I loved telling stories, I loved human interest pieces that included emotions. I steered towards writing, blogging and I created my first blog. It was a spectacular failure, but I did discover content writing. My first official job out of college was that – writing articles and blogs. My next job pushed me further into this. I learned about different types of content and how I could get good at it. I even started my own content writing company. I do not work there now, but my sister does. She eventually took over that company, as I started my new job. Here, I am pushing myself further learning about content marketing, how to get the most out of your content and even content strategizing. I still love content and marketing. Also, I am working towards becoming a content specialist. My LinkedIn Profile

According to you, what is the best way to start the day?

Before, I used to check my phone. However, recently I like to lie on the bed and think about the day, take a few minutes to myself and let my mind wander.No mobile phones, no checking emails, nothing at all.

Who is or has been your inspiration?

My mom. She has been through a lot, but she still is the strongest person I know. She has done it all – housewife, working lady, taking care of 3 dogs. She is just relentless and headstrong. She is someone who inspires me to do so much more.

What makes digital marketing different from traditional marketing?

I love how fast-paced it is. Constantly, changing and keeping you on your toes. Also, the personalization it offers and how effective it is.

What are your three favourite digital marketing tools?

Since my core is content writing and marketing – I love,

  • Grammarly
  • Keyword Planner &
  • Hootsuite.

How would you define success in your career?

Learning, I feel it is quite essential if you want to succeed. Becoming stagnant in your knowledge affects your success.

What is your biggest dream in life?

To have my own content marketing firm and to publish a book.

What is worth spending more on to get the best?

A good desk & chair. After numerous backaches, I’ve realized a good chair is extremely important. Similarly, invest in good pillows & mattress. A good night’s sleep can definitely change your whole day.

Lastly, would you like to say something to our readers?

I’ve learned this the hard way, there is never the right age to do something. If you miss out on doing what you love in your teens, do it in your 20s, or 30s. Please don’t follow anyone else’s timeline, it will just make you miserable. Also, never compare yourself with anyone (especially strangers on the internet).

Thank you, we truly appreciate your valuable time spent with us.

Thank you so much for this opportunity to talk to your readers.

Wishing you the best in all your future endeavours.

Cheers,

Deepak Kanakaraju