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4:00 AM 3rd January 2022
business

10 In 10: Charlotte Watson

 
Charlotte Watson, co-founder of Blonde Brown Recruitment, is the latest regional business professional in the hot seat as we give her just 10 minutes to answer our 10 burning questions.

What does a typical working day for you involve?

As a new start up business, my days are very varied at the moment and extremely busy. Much of my time is spent networking and connecting with other businesses.

I’m constantly searching for new and emerging talent; interviewing candidates; attending client meetings to gain a clear understanding of their recruitment needs; and planning for the long-term growth of Blonde Brown. I love being in control of my own diary – as an independent recruitment company, we have no rules so are free to spend as much time as we want to with people – it’s people that are at the very heart of our business.

What makes your company so special?

Kate Chandan and I are Co-founders of the business but prior to that, we both worked for large high street agencies. Today, as independent recruiters, so we get to make all the decisions and are able to grow our business and work with companies who support our values – at Blonde Brown we think about different conversations and we like to work with companies who support paying the right salaries for talent, employee wellbeing, diversity and inclusion, environmental responsibility and paying fair tax. The commitment we have to our candidates and clients are equal. We have recently gained accreditation from The Good Business Charter – which supports all of our values. Doing the right thing for our candidates and clients underpins everything we do at Blonde Brown.

Do you have any business rules that you swear by?

Love what you do. We spend such a significant amount of our time at work that it’s imperative that you enjoy your role and believe in the business you work for. Job satisfaction is paramount and helps motivate people to strive to do their best.

Do you dress up or down for work?

My rule is that it’s always better to be over dressed than under dressed. Dressing smart for the office, a networking event or a job interview creates a positive first impression. I always dress up for work as it puts me in the best mindset for my day.

What piece of advice would you give your 18 year old self?

Don’t waste time worrying - it’s like walking around with an umbrella whilst the sun is shining. Have conviction in the decisions you make and don’t look back. One of my favourite quotes is from Steve Jobs – “The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking don’t settle” I don’t think it’s ever too late to change your direction or dream and at 18 you don’t need to know all the answers!

What’s your favourite Yorkshire venue for an event or team away day?

Rudding Park is one of our favourite places, it has the perfect mix for us as its very relaxing. I find that our days can run away with us and we can get overwhelmed with day to day commitments. The spa at Rudding Park gives you a moment to take a breath, relax, and by doing this gives the brain time to think. I believe everyone should reflect on their business at least every quarter - thinking about what is working and what needs tweaking is one of the most important parts to running a business and also celebrate the wins.

How do you prefer to travel for business?

I do a lot of driving to business meetings. I love my Mini and driving gives me the freedom and space to take some time out and think about things. I come up with some of my best ideas in the Mini!

What’s your favourite place in Yorkshire to relax?

I am originally from Scarborough, so the town is my happy place as I have so many fond memories of growing up by the sea. You can’t beat a breezy walk on a winter’s day on the North beach with the sound of the waves crashing – it’s one of my favourite things in the world to do. Sea air is so refreshingly good for the soul – especially if you’ve had a busy week.

Where is your favourite place to eat in Yorkshire, and what dish do you recommend?

I’m a regular customer of The Star in the City in York. Set by the river, it’s a truly special place with stunning views. There is always a fantastic selection of seasonal choices so every visit is different. It’s my ‘go to place’ for celebrations. The Fish and Chips are excellent at The Star.

What do you miss most about Yorkshire when you are away?

The tea! Nothing can beat Yorkshire tea – the flavour is incredible. I tend to carry some about at all times!