June 1, 2024
Today marks the beginning of my internship in the sales department at Dabur. I am both excited and apprehensive about the challenges that lie ahead. My primary task is expanding Dabur’s distribution network by adding retail outlets daily. This will require me to step out of my comfort zone and engage directly with store owners and managers.
June 5, 2024
I have started exploring the assigned territories to identify potential retail outlets. It’s harder than I anticipated. I spent hours walking around unfamiliar areas and visiting numerous stores. Many store owners were skeptical or uninterested. Each rejection feels like a setback, but I am learning to refine my approach and stay persistent.
June 10, 2024
Rejections are becoming a part of my daily routine. Convincing store owners to stock Dabur products is a challenging task. I’ve realized that handling rejections gracefully is crucial. It’s an opportunity to understand the concerns of the store owners and address them effectively. Persistence and patience are key.
June 15, 2024
Time management is proving to be critical. I have to balance scouting for new stores, scheduling meetings, and conducting follow-ups. Planning my days meticulously has become essential to ensure productivity and efficiency. This experience has taught me the importance of planning and prioritizing tasks.
June 20, 2024
Today, I focused on identifying gap areas where Dabur’s presence is minimal. This required in-depth market analysis and strategic thinking. Covering these gap areas is a significant part of my strategy. It involves understanding market dynamics and consumer behavior. This task is enhancing my strategic thinking abilities.
June 25, 2024
I was assigned to a new, challenging territory known for its high competition and skeptical store owners. This is a pivotal moment in my internship. I conducted thorough market research, visited competing stores, and spoke with local customers to gather insights. Understanding the local market dynamics helped me tailor my approach accordingly.
June 30, 2024
This project requires me to make decisions independently. Unlike previous assignments, I don’t have direct supervision here. Making decisions on the spot is challenging but empowering. It’s building my confidence and enhancing my negotiation skills. I am learning to trust my instincts and make informed choices.
July 5, 2024
My internship experience at Dabur is a perfect complement to my PGDM coursework. Concepts from Marketing Management and Sales and Distribution Management are directly applicable to my tasks. This is bridging the gap between theory and practice. Understanding market dynamics, developing sales pitches, and managing customer relationships are all part of my daily tasks.
July 10, 2024
Reflecting on my journey so far, I have some advice for future PGDM students. Be proactive and take initiative. Seek opportunities, ask questions, and be willing to learn. Apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations. Observe and learn from your environment, and don’t hesitate to apply your theoretical knowledge. Regularly seek feedback, reflect on your experiences, and stay organized.
July 15, 2024
My internship at Dabur has been a transformative experience. It has not only enhanced my sales skills but also developed my strategic thinking, adaptability, and decision-making abilities. It provided me with a deeper understanding of the retail distribution network and consumer behavior, preparing me for future leadership roles. Every challenge is a chance to learn and grow. My internship at Dabur has shaped me into a more confident and capable individual, ready to tackle the corporate world.
Tarun Swami’s journey at Dabur is a testament to the impact of internships in shaping future leaders. His story serves as an inspiration to all PGDM students at Jaipuria Institute of Management, encouraging them to embrace challenges, learn continuously, and grow through every experience.