ALVINA, DIRECTOR; AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

Alvina Atmadja came home to continue her family business — a multibrand automotive dealership. Her role as a Director in her family business includes overseeing both the head office and operations. Over the last two years, she has overcomed challenges of being a second-generation to her family business. Despite her young age as a Director, Alvina aims to remove the negative stigma of those acquiring their family's business. At the end of it all, nothing beats grit and hard work when it comes to gaining the trust of the whole corporation.

EVERY EXPERIENCE WILL SHAPE YOU

Take risks and don't be afraid to fail. Before coming back to Indonesia to join my family business, I worked as a sales assistant in a fashion retail company and worked my way up to an area manager. Besides having these work experiences, I used to own a frozen yoghurt chain in Australia - which taught me a lot about franchising. I always think that school is always important but so are work experience. I believe that everything I have learnt in school and work has shaped me professionally and personally.

HARD WORK PAYS OFF

Two years ago, I joined my family business that has been established since the year I was born. Coming in as the second generation, people tend to look at you with a different eye. As expected, I constantly faced both high expectations and underestimation. Wanting to make my mark in the company was difficult as I was deemed to be inexperienced. I would say that My dad is my role model as he guides me through the challenging situations I face at work. Working hard and achieving results, proves to people that you're not someone to be underestimated.

LEARN, EVEN IF IT STARTS FROM THE BOTTOM

Over the last two years, I had to understand the Automotive industry thoroughly in a short amount of time. To succeed in this line of business, you have to be fully aware of what was going on in the automotive industry and learn the business environment of the industry. Despite having an Economics and Marketing degree, I quickly know that it wasn't only education that was needed but also knowledge of the industry and business process. It's about having the initiative and willingness to learn, even if you have to get down and dirty.

TRUST, RESPECT AND EMPOWER YOUR TEAM 

One thing I've learnt from working is that if you really take care of your employees, they will teach you more than just beyond your own experience. It wasn't easy to build trust overnight and I've learned that as long as you're willing to put in the effort, people will be attracted to your positive energy. It wasn't easy for me to adjust to the working culture in Indonesia, but throughout my years in the company I have learnt to always put your team first, correct wrongs and celebrate successes. Most of all, don't forget that your career is a journey. So chase your dreams and have fun while you're at it! 

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Check out Alvi's favourite hobbies and her travel diaries on her Instagram. We hope you enjoyed this article and continue to be inspired by real women around us — one who continues to successfully manage her career and continue to inspire other women.