Entrepreneurs Today connected with Sannat Chandhok, a Delhi native with a background in finance from the University of Massachusetts, Boston, and the founder of Desker CoWorking.
With a background in finance and experience in both the US and India, Chandhok recognized the burgeoning co-working trend and seized the opportunity to provide high-quality, affordable spaces in key Indian cities.
His venture, Desker CoWorking, currently boasts three locations in Delhi, Noida, and Gurgaon, with plans for further expansion into tier one and tier two cities. Drawing on his family’s experience in real estate and automotive manufacturing, Chandhok’s entrepreneurial journey demonstrates a keen understanding of market demands and a commitment to delivering top-notch services.
Currently, Desker CoWorking boasts a roster of esteemed clients, including major players like Kotak Mahindra Bank, who have partnered with them for their Noida centre.
Competitive Edge
Desker CoWorking offers premium co-working spaces with a commitment to affordability and quality. Their services include creating and maintaining high-quality workspaces equipped with top-notch infrastructure and facilities.
Unlike most brands in the industry, Desker CoWorking prioritizes accessibility by offering rates up to 60% cheaper while ensuring that clients receive services and amenities comparable to those of high-end brands.
From fully furnished workspaces to high-speed internet, meeting rooms, printing facilities, and refreshment amenities, Desker Coworking caters to the diverse needs of professionals and entrepreneurs without compromising on excellence. While many competitors may offer similar services, Desker Coworking distinguishes itself by prioritizing quality across every aspect of their operation. They go above and beyond by not only providing top-tier infrastructure and amenities but also by ensuring affordability.
Their focus on exceeding customer expectations and continuously innovating to meet evolving needs solidifies their reputation as a brand worth considering and returning to time and again.
Major Milestones
Desker CoWorking has achieved notable recognition and milestones in the co-working industry. Sannat has been featured in esteemed publications such as the Times of India, various co-working journals, Insights Magazine, CNBC, and Business Today, among others.
Additionally, Desker CoWorking has earned acclaim from the Global Workplace Association, receiving a five-star rating for their coworking spaces, a significant achievement in the industry. While they may not have received specific awards, their commitment to excellence and their impact on the coworking landscape speaks volumes about their success and potential.
Challenges Faced
There have been many obstacles along the way. Reflecting on how far the company has come, Sannat says,
“One thing people appreciate is how, during COVID, when many coworking spaces were shutting down, we managed to sustain ourselves with a small team, driven by empathy and kindness. Despite the challenges, we predicted the market’s bounce-back and positioned ourselves accordingly. Today, flexible workspaces are not just for freelancers or small companies; even large corporations are embracing them, realizing the benefits of focusing on their core business while we handle workspace logistics and quality service provision.”
One of the primary challenges faced by Desker CoWorking, like many in the industry, is customer retention. However, they have managed to overcome this challenge by prioritizing customer satisfaction and providing exceptional services and facilities.
While acquiring new clients can be costly and time-consuming, Desker CoWorking has achieved higher customer retention rates by ensuring that existing clients are consistently satisfied with their experience. This dedication to maintaining high standards and fostering loyalty among clients has proven effective in mitigating the challenges associated with customer turnover.
Interviewer: What do you think the scope and the market are like for someone who wants to start a business in the same domain?
Sannat: “It is, of course, challenging. If someone does want to get into this industry, one piece of advice I would give any entrepreneur is: don’t do what everybody else is doing. Differentiation is key. For instance, there may be a hundred hotel brands in India, offering similar options. What sets you apart is what will keep your customers coming back to you, even in challenging times. So, before you start, assess if other players have a formula that works and consider what you would do differently. If you know how to differentiate, you have a strategic advantage.”
Plans Ahead
Desker CoWorking has ambitious plans for the future, aligning with India’s economic growth and the evolving trends in the coworking sector. Sannat envisions a significant expansion of the industry, with traditional leases gradually transitioning into flexible workspace solutions.
This shift towards convenience and flexibility in working arrangements reflects a broader cultural change in India, where professionals increasingly recognize the benefits of coworking spaces. The company aims to capitalize on this growing demand by continuing to provide high-quality, affordable coworking solutions and positioning itself as a leader in the industry.
Sannat’s Advice to Budding Entrepreneurs:
“I believe patience is crucial; it’s the key to the game. Even if you encounter failure, remember it’s a natural part of the journey to success. Let failure serve as a motivation rather than a deterrent to your ambitions and dreams. Utilize it as a tool to emerge stronger and more resilient. And to young entrepreneurs, my biggest advice is: never stop believing in yourself and your aspirations. Keep the faith. If you believe in your vision, you’ve already won half the battle.”
