'Take yourself seriously and others will do so too'

How do you typically start your workday?
With a deep breath and a big smile! I try to treat each day as a fresh new start with unknown possibilities.
The first hour of my work day is when I assess my priorities and focus on what I absolutely need to accomplish. I also try to do something creative before I get involved in work tasks that tie me down for the remainder of the day.
Describe your work in a sentence
I am a leader, mentor and coach to my team, my clients, serious job seekers in transition and those discovering their next big career adventure.
What is your favourite thing about your job?
Helping others and making a positive impact.
What has been your most challenging experience to date and how did you resolve it?
When working for big corporates, I had the luxury of a large diverse team to collaborate with, but that is no longer the case. As the founder of Smart HR, it's part of my job to come up with ideas.
When market changes emerge, it is my responsibility to come up with a response plan. When my team hits an obstacle, they look up to me for guidance and to come up with an alternative plan to move forward. This demands on-the-spot thinking, and I rarely have the luxury of time. Over the years, I have learned, through trial and error, to think on my feet but it's a developed skill.
What advice would you give your younger self, if you could?
Trust your gut instinct, and don't over-think situations. Sure, you need good, reliable data, but don't sit on it and think too long about things.
How do you maintain a work:life balance?
This is such a buzzword! It's all about what you decide for yourself. There is always going to be an overlap between personal and business values.
For me, it's essential to spend time with my family first thing in the morning and then again early evening. I get up very early and have 'me' time, then I have breakfast with my family before I delve into work. In the evenings, after 7pm, I devote 100 per cent of my time to them. I close my day by doing a final check for any urgent work matters, so I can rest knowing I have things in hand for the following day.
Any advice for youngsters just getting into the professional arena?
Take yourself seriously and others will do so too.
A fictional character you think would make for a good role model - and why?
Katniss Everdeen from Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games. She is a strong lady, with a hard exterior, and is quick to spring into action. She is also passionate about right and wrong, and stands up for her family when they need it most.
What is your greatest dream, professionally?
To inspire future leaders to become the best they can be. If I influence or change one life for the better, I'll consider that a great success.
- Staff reporter