1. What talent do you naturally have that makes you successful in business?
The answer is in the question really: being natural. I'm quite an open, friendly, down-to-earth person. At a networking event I head straight for the person who is alone and looking uncomfortable because I know how that feels. People regularly tell me that my natural enthusiasm for my business shines through and it engages people. I'm also willing to admit when I've got things wrong.
2. When did you first realise you had that talent and how do you use it every day?
As an Australian, I learned soon after arriving in Britain that my openness and honesty sometimes gets me into trouble – the naturally reserved British can find it a bit unnerving. Thankfully, over the 25 years I've been here, people generally tend to like it! This proved true when I recently had to write to a potential client, admitting that their request had got lost off my radar. I was mortified but was up front about the oversight, saying that I'd understand if they didn't want to pursue their enquiry further. Next morning an email arrived to thank me for my refreshing honesty and yes, of course, they were still interested and how soon could I send some PoGo Packs?
My business helps girls to have a positive start to puberty with a period starter kit and supporting age-appropriate information. There is a great deal of embarrassment about puberty and periods. I constantly have to find a delicate balance between being open about the important messages I have to share with girls and parents, and being sensitive to their discomfort and values. The many notes of thanks from appreciative customers reassure me that I'm getting the message across in the right way and that it's helping families to deal with a subject which many parents find uncomfortable, and which makes many girls squeamish.
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