Vivien Er works for her family business, which has been specialising in carpentry and renovation works for more than 15 years. To unwind she like to travel or hang out with friends.
What’s your story?
My name is Vivian and I represent my family business – ER INTERIOR SERVICES. We are mainly a carpentry and renovation business. Our company has been in this industry for more than 20 years and I have been helping out with my family business for 2 years. Before joining my Dad’s company, I ran a dessert cafe with a friend.
What excites you most about your industry?
70% of our projects are commercial and 30% are residential. It’s interesting to meet and connect with many business owners of different trades.
What’s your connection to Asia?
Our business is based in Singapore, however, my connection to Asia is through my business networking group with other business owners.
Favourite city in Asia for business and why?
If there was an opportunity to expand overseas, Melbourne would be the first stop. Melbourne is like a second home to me, so naturally, it would be great to expand our business there.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
To be patient, from my Dad.
Who inspires you?
My Dad. It’s amazing how he managed to build up his company all by himself, grow and sustain it for so many years.
What have you just learnt recently that blew you away?
I’m always learning every day but as of now, nothing has blown me away.
If you had your time again, what would you do differently?
- I would have pursued business law as I was contemplating between it and marketing (as my second major) during my university days in Melbourne.
- Join my Dad’s business even earlier.
- Build up my Instagram even earlier during my university days.
How do you unwind?
The best way to unwind is travelling. If I’m unable to do so, the next best thing would be to find a nice place to have high tea with friends. Occasionally, I also attend tasting and media events after work as part of my relaxing regime.
Favourite Asian destination for relaxation? Why?
Melbourne. I spent 3 years in Melbourne during my university days and it felt like a second home to me instantly. Simply love the food, scenery and overall vibe there.
Everyone in business should read this book:
Purple Cow: Transform your business by being remarkable
Shameless plug for your business:
Great quality of work, High efficiency and Unparalleled customer service.
How can people connect with you?
I can be contacted via email: [email protected]
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This interview is part of the ‘Callum Connect’ series of more than 500 interviews
Callum Laing is an entrepreneur and investor based in Singapore. He has previously started, built and sold half a dozen businesses and is now a Partner at Unity-Group Private Equity and Co-Founder of The Marketing Group PLC. He is the author two best selling books ‘Progressive Partnerships’ and ‘Agglomerate’.
Connect with Callum here: twitter.com/laingcallum linkedin.com/in/callumlaing Download free copies of his books here: www.callumlaing.com