Negative attitude is lethal for business:Shahina Waheed

Islamabad:The two-day expo to promote creativity among Pakistani women entrepreneurs organised by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation ended here on Sunday with a resolve to empower women.

A large number of women from across Pakistan took part in the expo while it attracted a large number of local and foreign buyers, diplomats, CEOs of different local and multinational companies and representatives of the business community.The event featured over 200 vendors from home decor industry, beauty, food, handicrafts, artificial jewellery, leather goods etc.Apart from on-site selling, sampling and demonstrating hundreds of products, the businesswomen exchanged views and found new buyers as well as partners.

The fun filled extravaganza showcased large number of local and foreign makeover products including cosmetics, perfumes, skin, hair and nail care, jewellery, clothes, shoes and accessories.Some stalls offering latest in home decoration and furniture attracted large crowds.

Speaking on the occasion, Engr. Shadia Yousif Bakhait, Chief of UNIDO, Pakistan said that she is encouraged to see the response of women entrepreneurs and guests which is a source of inspiration. She thanked all the partners including CEO Serena hotels Aziz Boolani who cooperated in providing opportunity to women.

National Programme Coordinator of UNIDO Shahina Waheed spoke at a Learning Session during the exposition.She said that large investments are not necessary as women can buy products from market and sell them after adding value to it.

There is a lot of difference between a shop and a stall; women need to learn engaging customers and discover art of display which is imperative to attract attention of the prospective customers, she told participants. “If you don’t have customers than your business will eventually fail; therefore it is important to have customers and most importantly those buyers who would like to come back again,” said Shahina.

She informed in details about the importance of location of business, appearance, first impression, prices, knowledge of products, friendliness, negotiations skills, and advertising in all the right places.Shahina said that Pakistan has one of the richest cultural heritage which calls for involvement of businesswomen in exploiting the its potential.

Fashion industry offers great opportunities as traditional businesses cannot offer dividends therefore women needs to explore their creativity, she underlined.Negative attitude while servicing a customer is lethal for business, she warned.
Participants also spoke about their experience during the Learning Session and gave some practical suggestions for improvement.