In celebration of Women’s History Month, we’re happy to bring our Women in Furniture Series, spotlighting accomplished women shaping the furniture industry. While strides have been made towards gender diversity, the industry lags behind others. At 3D Cloud™, we stand behind and empower outstanding women propelling the industry forward. So, grab your favorite brew, take a seat, and delve into the inspiring journey of —
Violette Forman.
Violette is currently General Manager at Havertys Furniture in Alexandria, LA. She has 25 years of experience in the furniture industry. Her strong background in coaching, sales, retail, business development, and merchandising makes her an excellent candidate for our Women in Furniture series. In this article, she shares her career journey and insights into the furniture industry.
We can start with how you landed in the furniture industry. Can you tell us about that?
Violette Forman: I worked for Dillards for 16 years. My last position was the Furniture Area Sales Manager in Bossier City, LA. My mentor, Carl Silcox, recruited me to Havertys Furniture.
Why furniture? What do you love about working in the furniture industry?
VF: It is wonderful to have a part in helping people create beautiful spaces in their homes. Working for a company such as Havertys Furniture, which has provided furniture for our customers for over 138 years, is a privilege. I love the idea that customers are creating lifelong memories around Havertys’ furniture.
“It is wonderful to have a part in helping people create beautiful spaces in their home. I love the idea that customers are creating lifelong memories around Havertys’ furniture.” – Violette Forman, GM at Havertys
How important is it to have a network of other women as you mature in your career?
VF: You need to network, no matter your age. Being connected to a community of like-minded women is important in this industry. A network allows you to reach out for encouragement, inspiration, and advice, as well as build business relationships.
“A network allows you to reach out for encouragement, inspiration, and advice, as well as build business relationships.” – Violette Forman, GM at Havertys
What tips do you have for cultivating a network and building relationships?
VF: My tip for cultivating a network and building relationships is to join an industry organization such as WithIt (www.withit.org). But don’t just join; become involved and participate. Attend events and join or chair a committee. When you become involved, you will have the opportunity to meet and get to know people on a different level. You will learn to lead, support, mentor, and be mentored. I have been involved with WithIt for over 16 years and have served on many committees and the board. Serving as President was one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences in my career. It allowed me to meet and connect with women and men throughout the industry and grow as a leader and manager.
What keeps you grounded and energized?
VF: My faith, family, and friends keep me grounded. It is important to take time off from work to breathe. When I travel and step back from work, I find that when I return, I am energized and ready to give 110%.
Violette Forman’s industry journey shines a guiding light for women in furniture. Her narrative underscores the significance of cultivating connections. Joining organizations like WithIt can immerse you in a supportive community of women within the furniture sector.
Thank you, Violette, for sharing your career journey with us.
