Sticking to one's opinion with an ear for suggestions

BUSINESSWOMEN OF GUJARAT/ Shreya Lavsi

I make it a point to be at home between 4 pm and 6 pm everyday. That is when I want to be completely cut off from work and dedicate my attention solely to my family," says Shreya Lavsi, proprietor of Raymond showrooms in Ahmedabad and the sole selling agent of the company in the city.

That is Shreya Lavsi for you, who entered the world of business immediately after she got married (she was then in the second year of college).

Although both Lavsi and her husband belong to business families, handling the showroom by herself has been a big task indeed.

The day begins at 5.45 am for the businesswoman. "Work practically takes up a major part of my day, but I have always attempted to strike the right balance," she says.

She walks into the showroom at 11 am everyday and barring the two hours between 4 pm and 6 pm, when she stays with the family, the remaining part is spent in the showroom, getting orders placed and the like.

"In fact, there's nothing called a Sunday for me. The routine is just the same as we are open on Sunday's too. But yes, being in a joint family and with most members being active in the business, everybody understands each other quite well," she said.

"I watch National Geographic and Discovery channels. They interest me a lot. Besides that, I really do not watch too much television," she says.

And yes, she does follow political developments both locally and nationally, but just to keep in touch with what is happening. "Yes, politics interests me, but not as much as National Geographic," she states.

Returning back to what makes her click in her busy business career, she states, "One must listen to everyone. Suggestions are important and should not be ignored. But one must finally take a decision and stick to it very firmly. I have followed this and it does help."

Turning around, she beckons Alay, who is walking around the showroom. "He has just finished his class X exams and has been showing a keen interest in the business. My elder son, who is studying in college, has not quite shown a similar interest in the business," she says. It appears as if the next generation is already being groomed to carry forward the business.