What does your business do?
I am delighted to have been helping administrators, secretaries, receptionists and PAs to find ways to improve how they work since January 2000, after over 20 years as a secretary and then PA myself. I cover areas from shorthand, speedwriting and touch typing, through minute taking, reception skills, administrators’ workshops and business writing, up to individual PA coaching (full details at the website www.bakerthompsonassoc.co.uk).
In May 2009 my speedwriting system book was published and can be bought from the publishers website or from Amazon. This was followed in August 2010 by “Successful Minute Taking : Meeting the Challenge”.
As well working all around the UK, I regularly facilitate workshops in the Middle and Far East and present at PAs’ seminars.
Given my work experience, I can empathise with the issues delegates have. Sessions can be tailored for individual company’s specific requirements and training is informal, discussion based and relevant.
What made you decide to start your own business?
When I was a PA and trying to get relevant training, there was nobody out there facilitating this. I felt PAs needed to be able to attend sessions where they could discuss their specific issues and organisations needed someone to offer relevant training.
What have been your biggest challenges so far?
In the 11 years I have been facilitating sessions, technology has evolved at an incredible pace – keeping up is always a challenge – and fun!
How did you overcome this challenge?
Don’t ever give up!
What advice would you give to other business owners?
Don’t ever give up and love what you do.
What’s your favourite quote?
“Just when something seems impossible, that’s the time to keep going” Thomas Edison
Who inspires you?
Everyone who is positive and tenacious!
