Megghha Julkka - Being a Finalist in Miss India International 2021 Was a Life-Changing Experience (Miss India International 2021)

It’s like doing your homework and then putting it into action.

1. Tell me more about your journey.

My journey has truly been one of building strength upon strength. I began my career in HR, where I laid the foundation of my professional skills. I then transitioned into teaching at renowned schools like Mahadevi Birla and BSS. Along the way, I also gained experience in field sales, which added a new dimension to my skill set. Eventually, I found my interest in research and analytics, which has become my chosen domain. This path has been a never-ending journey of growth and learning, each step building on the last.

2. What was your experience like as a finalist in Miss India International 2021? How has this experience influenced your professional life?

Being a finalist in Miss India International 2021 was a life-changing experience. It’s an honor I carry with me throughout my journey. The experience has profoundly shaped who I am today, teaching me invaluable lessons about grit, grace, and gratitude. It was a journey filled with learning moments, and I had the privilege of meeting incredible individuals with inspiring stories. This experience has not only influenced me personally but has also given me the confidence and resilience that I bring into my professional life every day.

3. You have been featured as a Fashion Ambassador in prestigious publications like Vogue and Times of India. How do you balance your career in digital analytics with your passion for fashion 

Fashion, for me, is all about blending comfort with a chic, effortless style in daily life. Whether I’m working in digital analytics or pursuing my passion for fashion, I always prioritize feeling comfortable while looking stylish. The shoots I’ve done for Vogue, particularly the summer shoot, perfectly reflected this vibe.

The clothing was bright and comfortable, and the entire crew created an environment that allowed us to feel at ease and deliver our best. It was an incredibly fun and rewarding experience that complemented my professional journey seamlessly.

4. Given your diverse experience in market research, what techniques do you find most effective for gathering consumer intelligence ?

In my experience, gathering consumer intelligence effectively requires a mix of curiosity and strategic techniques. I find that combining qualitative methods, like direct interviews and focus groups, with quantitative approaches, such as data analytics and trend analysis, yields the best results. 

Understanding consumer behavior also involves staying agile—leveraging real-time data, social listening tools, and predictive analytics to stay ahead of emerging trends. This multifaceted approach allows for a deep and actionable understanding of the market.

5. What are some of the biggest challenges you faced while managing research projects and how did you overcome that ? 

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in managing research projects is meeting tight timelines while ensuring high-quality deliverables. I recall working directly with clients where we had to deliver a significant volume of work within strict deadlines. To overcome this, I focused on meticulous planning, clear communication with the team, and setting realistic milestones. Prioritizing tasks and maintaining a strong focus on quality throughout the process were key to successfully delivering on time.

6 What advice would you give to someone starting their career in digital analytics or market research ?

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned from my mentors is the importance of maintaining a curious mind. The tech landscape and the world around us are constantly evolving, so it’s crucial to keep learning and upskilling. Stay curious, be open to new ideas, and never stop asking questions. This mindset will not only help you adapt to changes but also keep you ahead in the field of digital analytics or market research.

7. In your opinion, what is the key to succeeding in a role that requires both technical expertise and strategic thinking ?

The key to succeeding in a role that demands both technical expertise and strategic thinking lies in a balanced approach. For the technical side, it’s all about practical learning—getting hands-on experience through projects and applying what you’ve learned directly to your tasks. 

It’s like doing your homework and then putting it into action. Strategic thinking, on the other hand, comes from a deep understanding of the business. It’s about knowing the market, the different business units, and how they all fit together to drive success. Combining these two aspects allows you to make informed, impactful decisions I believe

Bio

I’m a digital analytics professional currently working at Deloitte, with a diverse background in market research and fashion. As a Miss India International 2021 finalist featured in Vogue, I combine strategic insight with creativity, driven by continuous learning.

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Interviewed & Edited by- Arunangshu Chatterjee