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Name: Anna Hodges

State: Queensland

Job title: Managing Director

Company:  Purple Squirrel Recruitment

Describe your role or if you’re a business owner what your business does … Purple Squirrel Recruitment is a boutique recruitment consultancy. We only work with a small number of very specialised clients but give a very personalised service. A “purple squirrel” is a term used in the recruitment industry to describe the perfect candidate – one that is almost impossible to find. That’s what we do – find our clients their purple squirrel.

Describe your typical day … I am not only a business owner but the mum of a seven month old boy, Liam, so every day is different! I spend a lot of time on LinkedIn and other professional sites online with very specific skill-sets for my clients. I also spend a lot of my time on the phone talking with people, networking and interviewing – I am permanently attached to my Blackberry and iPad. I also try to get out for a walk every day – it helps clear the mind!

When was the last time you felt inspired? I am inspired regularly to be honest. Luckily I love my job and sometimes I am able to help people who are in really difficult positions (eg a candidate of mine who was made redundant just before Christmas with three boys under 10!). I am able to give guidance, career coaching and support to professionals who need it and appreciate it. When times are tough for my candidates they inspire me to push forward and get them that perfect role.

I also saw my little boy stand for the first time last week – talk about a totally different inspiration!!

What’s next on your Bucket List and why? Am I the only one who doesn’t have an official bucket list?! Well, I would love to eat at Heston Blumenthal’s restaurant, The Fat Duck. Why? Because it would be an amazing experience!

Tell us something about you that may surprise people? This is a bit embarrassing but back in the 80’s I actually went to Johnny Young Talent School! They were back in the days of Danni and Kylie (them’s were the days) and I cannot believe it has actually come back to TV! It just shows it all comes back around in the end.

What’s your top tip for success? Two things have contributed to my success:

• Do what you say you are going to do. And if you can’t for whatever reason, then fall on your sword – be honest and upfront and do better next time.
• Always act with integrity. Always.

What would you like to get from your Business Chicks experience? In my role a large percentage of my recruits and my clients are men. I am keen to engage and network with more senior female managers across Australia. I also love to attend the events and see great, inspirational speakers who then motivate me to achieve even more than I am already doing.

Anna is a Premium member of Business Chicks, you can request her online business card and connect with her here.