Lessons for Young Entrepreneurs in the Design Industry

Stepping into a family business or diving into the design first business is both exciting and challenging. I am a third-generation entrepreneur, having seen our traditional enterprise evolve into a brand that combines craftsmanship with modernity, and is now beginning to have a global footprint has been an enriching experience. It has been a journey filled with valuable lessons-some learned painfully, others through the wisdom of my predecessors. The way my grandfather and father worked through some problems have taught me some key lessons that may help steer young entrepreneurs on their paths.

Honor the Legacy, But Bring in Innovation

The biggest dilemma that is often experienced by young entrepreneurs when they join a family business is that the old traditions must be balanced with new ones. This means that with all respect given to existing values and the legacy on which the business is built, new ideas must be brought in, and changes made depending on the market dynamics.

If you are stepping into a family business, first get to know its core competencies by experience, then begin innovation. When I got into Fos Lighting (Orient Electricals back then), I saw an opportunity for bringing the heritage and modernization into one approach. Instead of just going with as it was, we introduced new designs, rebranded ourselves as Fos Lighting, used e-commerce, and spearheaded the business into newer markets. The outcome? A heritage-accommodating business that is relevant to modern times and bringing Indian craftsmanship into the fore.  

The Power of Craftsmanship and Authenticity

The design industry places great value upon originality and craftsmanship. This means that today's consumers seek products that can tell a story; products that contain nuances of cultural heritage and are created with precision.

In design, fashion, or any creative endeavour, champion quality and authenticity. The public will covet things that are well made and with a meaning. At Fos Lighting, we engage skilled artisans with traditional techniques, such as brass casting, Kashida embroidery, and marble inlay, to create unique lighting solutions. This not only keeps craft alive but also helps to set us apart in a marketplace that is fast disappearing under the onslaught of mass-produced products.

Customer-Centric Approach Wins Every Time

What stands out as one of the most significant lessons that I learned in my career is that customer experience, rather than the product itself, is what makes for true success. Listen to feedback, improve your products and services and build lasting relationships. A strong customer base is the foundation for a long-lasting success.

At Fos Lighting, we focus on customization, personalised service, and a seamless shopping experience. Our attention is on making the customer feel valued, whether it be assisting a client in picking the proper lighting for his space or creating custom pieces.  

Adaptability and Continuous Learning are Key

The business climate is ever evolving, and failure to adapt will usually result in one being swept aside. Emerging trends, new consumer habits, and technological breakthroughs: keeping abreast of them is very important.

Always remain a student of your industry, read, network, and try things out. The more flexible you are, the better you move through the problems. We make it a point to regularly attend industry events, network with other entrepreneurs, and invest in learning. This has certainly put us ahead of the curve and helped anticipate changes in the market even before they occur.

Leadership Is an Art of Balancing Passion and Patience

It is one's mindset as much as the strategy involved in entrepreneurship. After all, it is the passion that is going to drive you, but the patience will let you hang on through tough times.

Be passionate and patient. Every entrepreneur will face hurdles, but what sets the successful ones apart is the ability to persevere. I have had my share of setbacks in my entrepreneurial journey - project delays, economic downturns, and operational nightmares. But during these trying times, all I drew on was the resilience to keep going plus a clear vision. Leadership is not really about making those big calls, but rather about staying through the highs and lows.

To young entrepreneurs, my advice is simple: honour your roots and embrace change, remain curious, and never compromise on authenticity. The road may lead to trials, but truly worth every bit of effort is the reward of having built something truly meaningful and truly lasting.

About the author: Sidharth Rohatgi, Director, Fos Lighting, is an innovative force in the decorative lighting industry. With a passion for Indian art forms, he combines technical expertise with a deep appreciation for cultural heritage to create unique and inspiring lighting solutions. Beyond his professional pursuits, Sidharth's personal interests include exploring new cultures and art forms, continually inspiring his work.

Also Read: Namma Metro 2.0 - The New Blueprint for Smart Investments

Also Read: I am An Architect, Not a Women Architect!