Success
Starting a business is more than just an entrepreneurial decision; it is an emotional and intellectual leap of faith. For Richa Sareen Gupta, founder of SkillDeck, this journey was born out of her profound desire to redefine the landscape of HR training and development. Her story is one of resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to empowering professionals in the Human Resources (HR) field.
At the age of 30, with seven years of experience in HR leadership roles, Richa took the bold step of transitioning from a stable career to the uncertain world of entrepreneurship. With an initial capital of INR 30,000, she launched SkillDeck in 2018, an organization that has since grown to become a pivotal force in HR training, boasting a turnover of INR 4 crore. Based in the bustling tech hub of Bengaluru, SkillDeck operates with the mission of equipping HR professionals with practical skills and real-world knowledge to excel in their careers.
Richa’s journey into entrepreneurship was not accidental; it was the culmination of nearly two decades of immersion in the HR domain. Her professional trajectory saw her progressing through various HR roles, including talent acquisition, operations, and eventually, senior leadership. Each phase deepened her understanding of the human dynamics behind successful organizations. However, Richa realized that many HR professionals lacked the practical skills and tools required to navigate modern challenges effectively. This gap, coupled with her passion for fostering growth in others, planted the seeds of SkillDeck.
SkillDeck was designed to address the unmet needs of HR practitioners. Unlike traditional training models that often lean heavily on theory, SkillDeck offers hands-on, results-oriented courses that focus on real-world scenarios. The organization emphasizes the application of knowledge, equipping participants to handle challenges such as recruitment, payroll, performance management, and strategic HR leadership with confidence and expertise.
The path to establishing SkillDeck was far from easy. Building credibility in a competitive market, securing funding, and recruiting a dedicated team posed significant challenges. Richa’s determination and strategic mindset proved instrumental in overcoming these obstacles. Recognizing the importance of adaptability, she introduced innovative solutions like AI-driven tools and tech-based HR practices into SkillDeck’s curriculum, setting it apart from competitors.
On a personal front, balancing family responsibilities with business demands was one of her greatest challenges. As a wife and mother, Richa had to ensure she was present for her family while steering her startup toward success. This dual responsibility shaped her belief in prioritizing well-being, a value she ingrained within SkillDeck’s organizational culture.
Since its inception, SkillDeck has impacted the careers of thousands of HR professionals across India and beyond. By offering tailored programs, certification courses, and workshops, the organization empowers participants to build careers that align with the evolving demands of the HR industry. The practical orientation of SkillDeck’s training ensures that HR professionals can not only perform better but also contribute meaningfully to the organizations they serve.
The ripple effect of SkillDeck’s work extends beyond the individual learners. Organizations that partner with SkillDeck report improvements in employee engagement, operational efficiency, and overall workplace culture. By creating industry-ready HR practitioners, SkillDeck bridges the gap between academic learning and real-world application, thereby enhancing the HR ecosystem as a whole.
Richa’s entrepreneurial journey has been deeply influenced by thought leaders who champion purpose-driven leadership. She admires figures like Indra Nooyi and Simon Sinek, whose empathetic and people-first approaches resonate with her vision for SkillDeck. These philosophies align with Richa’s belief that HR is not just about policies and procedures but about empowering individuals to reach their fullest potential.
As an entrepreneur, Richa brings a unique blend of strategic vision and emotional intelligence to the table. Her ability to connect with people on a personal level has been a cornerstone of SkillDeck’s success. Clients and team members alike trust her commitment to creating meaningful, lasting change in their lives and careers.
SkillDeck’s journey is far from over. Richa envisions a future where the organization becomes a global leader in HR training and development. Plans are already underway to expand the company’s digital presence and introduce advanced certifications, AI-powered learning platforms, and an interactive global community for HR professionals.
By leveraging technology and innovation, SkillDeck aims to make its resources accessible to HR practitioners worldwide, breaking barriers of geography and time. The ultimate goal is to establish SkillDeck as a go-to platform for HR professionals seeking cutting-edge training, collaboration opportunities, and industry insights.
Richa’s experiences as an entrepreneur have taught her invaluable lessons, the most significant of which is the importance of resilience. Every challenge she faced, from initial funding struggles to market competition, reinforced her belief in the power of persistence and adaptability. She emphasizes the importance of a growth mindset, viewing every obstacle as an opportunity to learn and improve.
For those considering entrepreneurship, Richa offers this advice: “Focus on creating real value for your customers and stay true to your vision. Build a network of mentors, and don’t hesitate to seek help when needed. Lastly, remember that passion is important, but it must be paired with a grounded, strategic approach to succeed.”
Richa’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. She has been honored with prestigious awards such as “Best HR in IT Startup” by IHRC and the “Outstanding Women Entrepreneur Award.” In 2022, she was recognized as the “Best Emerging HR Trainer of the Year,” cementing her reputation as a leader and innovator in the HR training space.
The story of Richa Sareen Gupta and SkillDeck is a testament to the transformative power of vision, resilience, and a people-first approach. From its humble beginnings with a capital of INR 30,000 to becoming a trusted name in HR training with a turnover of INR 4 crore, SkillDeck exemplifies the impact of purpose-driven entrepreneurship.
As Richa continues to expand SkillDeck’s reach and offerings, she remains deeply committed to her mission: empowering HR professionals to create meaningful, lasting impacts within their organizations and beyond. Her journey is an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, a reminder that with passion, perseverance, and a clear vision, it is possible to turn dreams into reality.
