Each week, we ask small businesses key questions. Here we speak to Lorraine Westley, owner of Moray start-up Recruitment Bee (Scotland), based in Forres
How and why did you start in business?
Recruitment Bee was formed through a desire to do something which makes a difference to someone’s life.
Having worked over the past 10 years or so in contingency staffing needs for companies, it was all about short-term solutions. I wanted to scratch the surface more to resolve problems.
I considered moving to a new role or company, but none offered that “right fit”. So, I joined the Moray Accelerator programme, run by Elevator.
It was through this programme I got my “yes moment” and realised I had so much to offer our business community.
How did you get to where you are today?
My career path has been varied, from military service with the Royal Air Force, and personnel and recruitment consultancy with small independents, through to working for three of the world’s largest recruitment brands, supporting a plethora of businesses – from corporate and international level to micro and small and medium-sized enterprises – with their recruitment needs.
I have also worked in career transition roles, which helped build my knowledge to share with others through my consultancy business.
Who helped you?
So many people have supported me along the way. My younger self was always too proud to ask for help. As I got older I realised you can only help others if you help yourself first – so ask. What’s the worst that can happen?
What has been your biggest mistake?
My mantra is learn from mistakes and move on. You can only grow as a person through making mistakes and learning from them. I have learned lots over the years.
What is your greatest achievement?
Having my three children. I am so proud to watch them grow and develop their own career paths, and seeing how kind and supportive they are of each other.
If you were in power in government, what would you change?
I would have more grants for start-up companies. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) account for three-fifths of all employment and around half of turnover in the UK private sector, but they are also, sadly, some of the first to cease trading in their first year due to cash flow issues.
What do you still hope to achieve?
Lots – every day offers new opportunities. The best thing about being an independent business is being able to adapt my service offering to clients to meet their needs, providing bespoke solutions – rather than a one-size-fits-all approach – to support SMEs with attracting the best talent.
What do you do to relax?
Wine? Perhaps not entirely true as I also love to swim in our local pool. When not there, you will find me in the kitchen, batch-cooking. I love to cook and share my culinary talents with family and friends.
What are you currently reading, listening to or glued to on the TV?
I have been reading anything to build my business knowledge and skills. Articles, newsletters and forum updates from the Federation of Small Businesses are great for keeping me abreast of current legislation, including on web design/hosting and modern slavery policy.
I’m also reading Marketing for Dummies and Who Moved My Cheese by Dr Spencer Johnson.
What do you waste your money on?
I am quite frugal but do love a big splurge every now and then. This would probably be purchasing clothes and shoes. You can never have too many outfits.
How would your friends describe you?
Honest – so it’s probably best not to ask me if your outfit looks good on you. Feedback is a gift but you can choose to accept it or not.
They would also say I am reliable and go out of my way to help if I can. I have helped many of my friends and their families update their CVs and with job opportunities.
What would your enemies say about you?
I think I am professional enough to agree to disagree, with respect and dignity. It would be terribly boring if we all agreed all the time.
What do you drive and dream of driving?
Currently driving a car with four wheels! My husband dreams of driving a new Range Rover, so I would buy one to keep him happy. It might also be useful for off-road trips and visiting clients across the north.