The businesswoman I currently most admire is Angela Ahrendts because she has been truly pivotal at moments of major change for companies, doing so across business sectors and each time with great success.
To juggle my work and life balance I make sure that I schedule in time to take a break from everyone and de-clutter my mind. Only by doing so can I stay fresh, preserve energy and keep my eye on the end goal.
My biggest career break was my first major event when setting up my new business. At the time we were a start-up, based in a tiny office in a Soho car park. The event on the other hand was a high end wedding in St Petersburg. We trusted our instincts, put everything into it and against the odds, we won the pitch and haven’t looked back since.
The biggest influence on my career so far has been my decision to switch from music to events. It was very much a big step into the unknown at the time, but I feel so fortunate to have enjoyed two such interesting paths.
One thing that makes me mad in business today is the lack of personal contact. While of course I rely on email, text and WhatsApp as much as anyone else, I still find that nothing beats talking to people – person to person – and choosing to deal with things by having a quick conversation. You can share a creative or strategic moment and bounce thoughts and ideas.
Boardroom quotas are necessary or nuts? Necessary. While quotas are far from an ideal solution, I think change will take too long if not given a definitive shove in the right direction.
My one tip on negotiating a pay rise is map out your value. In other words, know what you are achieving now for your current salary and know (or ask) what it is you need to do more to increase your worth to the business. It is often very simple, you influence X incoming revenue, you are worth Y to the company.
In five years I see myself heading up an established and recognised global business with a network and client-base that uniquely supports our company.
My number one piece of advice to young women starting their careers is turn up looking polished and never give up.
My favourite wind down activity is wine-ding down!
The last book I read was The Wave by Susan Casey.
The one thing I can’t live without are friends and the laughter that always comes with them.
About Anabel
Anabel Fielding is the CEO of event management company Quintessentially Events.
