Did you have to undergo any specialised formal training when you were starting out? In your opinion, is formal training mandatory for anyone who wants to work from home?
I did undergo some formal training in chocolate making when I set out to make it a commercial venture. It taught me the importance of a good finish and attractive packaging. So, I feel some systematic training will certainly be useful to attain a professional approach to business.
Can you describe a typical day at work for you?
I do not observe strict working hours as I have social and family commitments. However, I do schedule my day in such a way that around 3 – 6 hours are set aside for chocolate making and sari printing. The number of hours varies depending on the season. I manage most of my work from home, though I do make occasional visits to my suppliers and artisans to supervise them.
Come Diwali, Christmas and I am sure the demand for chocolates must be at an all time high. How do you handle this pressure?
Systematic planning of work, customer meetings and getting orders in advance before the festive season matters in this type of work. Extra helpers do pitch in to complete the orders taken if required.
As for sari printing, I plan my exhibitions such a manner, so that they don’t clash with my other schedules.
According to you, what is the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is the freedom from fixed working hours. I get to spend quality time with my family and at the same time gain satisfaction from my job. I feel very happy to be doing something creative. The appreciation from my customers is also extremely satisfying.
