One year on: starting a new business during the pandemic

In March 2020, I started my own company. After 8 years of working in executive recruitment, I wanted my work to be defined by my own values- not monthly, quarterly, and yearly targets.

Starting a company the week before the WHO declares a global pandemic is not something I would typically recommend. I felt immense fear and sadness as I saw the world turned upside down. Friends and former colleagues lost jobs and had to relocate. Working from home with a toddler in tow and being isolated from family made things even harder. I often questioned whether it was appropriate to contact clients and build my business.

The world is still facing an uphill battle and we have a long way to go, but the lessons I (re)learned in these extreme circumstances have been invaluable. 

My business is about people and their particular needs. I was forced to slow down from my usual corporate pace. I reached out to clients simply to listen to their challenges. I focused on having real conversations instead of trying to sell my service. I had the luxury of connecting and reconnecting with amazing people across the globe who provided feedback, support, encouragement, and even humor through these challenging times.

As a result, this has been the most rewarding year of my career. Not only for embarking on this adventure, but because the people I met (albeit virtually) made all the difference. I am grateful for so many things:

• The candidates who took my call and shared their stories with me. 
• All of my clients that chose to work with me and entrust me with their business. 
• My son and my husband who tirelessly looked after him during my many conference calls.

After the numerous exciting projects in my first year (CEO, CFO, CDO, CHRO), across the globe (US, France, Germany, Netherlands, UK, Spain), and diverse industries (FMCG, Pharma, Biotechnology, IT, Heavy Industry, Automotive), I look forward to all the new people to connect with as I continue this journey.