I don’t see others as competition

This article was last updated on April 16, 2022

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RJ Singh Oberoi is a man who has his fingers in too many pies at the same time. The man behind Bo Phut, CasaSur Art and several properties epitomizes the journey of a lawyer in pursuit of doing something of his own.

Completing his education he started working as an attorney for many locations based and one of the top companies law firm Baker & McKenzie and was the helm of affairs heading a leading a big case. Yet life changed for him and he gave it all up on a hunch and decided to wander in India. He travelled around the world for Taj’s and Oberoi’s but his dream was calling. He wanted something for his own. His own hotel, his own place. He wanted to open a hotel that offered experiences beyond ordinary. Thus his first hotel was born. The success of his hotel soon sent him investing in properties so he had the money to expand his dreams.

Heral Anderson of OyeTimes spoke to RJ to understand how someone with not so many experience in the hotel business made it and what is he up to next – his mantras to success and more.

What kind of initial hiccups were there when you started with your first project?Finding right talent is the biggest challenge of this business. You don’t find people who believe in your dream and share your vision easily. Finding property at the right location was another challenge. Real estate prices were too high. They are now going through the roofs.

How do you start and popularize a hotel?
You need to offer something interesting and extraordinary. Attach an emotional appeal to everything you do because people should get attached to your place. Find a location that is best suited for your offering. Clearly explain your concept to your staff so that they could execute it in the same spirit that you wield. Maintain high quality standards in your offerings – ambience, service and food. Everything must speak of your passion for your brand. Then once established, you must ensure consistency in your service levels. This is the most important step to retain guests. And last but not least market yourself through suitable channels.

What is your plan for next three years?
I live by day. I am looking for a good place to open a restaurant in the United States or Canada and expand the restaurant in other parts of the country. Amsterdam is a city very close to my heart because I lived there and have a lot of friends in the city and they are always asking why I am starting something in Amsterdam. I definetely want a space in Amsterdam in the avatar of a hotel or restaurant. With a few friends also business partners we bought a property in Paris to open a restaurant. But first I am having my surgery this month and after my vacation to India so I can start 2014 with a bang.

How did you came up with the idea of a restaurant in Paris?
Someone special who is very close to my heart loves Paris. I visited Paris last month and two Italian restaurant owners were selling their space. I and my friends hired lawyers and accountants and about a few days ago bought their space. Paris has a good market when it comes down to casual or fine dining and now I’ll always have an excuse to take that someone special to Paris.

Isn’t it a big risk to start new projects with an unpredictable future according to your health?
I can’t afford myself to gamble all I have but either I can’t sit at home and watch tv all day. I like to create new ideas and develop them. My dream is to be among the top-ten but I don’t see others as competition.

You were invited on CNBC Business to talk about your passion. How was it?Great! I like to stay low profile and just do what I like to do but if there’s a need to share  vision and knowledge I am in.

Where do you see yourself five years down the line in business and personal life?In business I see myself sharing the same enthusiasm and love for hospitality like I do now. Gratification from what you are doing is very important. In personal life – a better person and healthy.