For further information on Ruth please contact us on 07934 503742 or email ruth@room54.co.uk
"Ruth was relaxed and confident in her speech; she has a warmth and openness that engaged our students. She also has so much energy and passion for what she does and has accomplished a lot for one so young. I was very pleased with Ruth’s visit, having someone who was so recently in our student’s shoes, to speak, undoubtedly made an impact. She also spent a lot of time talking to girls at the reception afterwards and I know they really enjoyed that.”
Headmistress
Girls Senior School
Who or what was your motivation to achieve?
My parents, they always worked hard, expected the best from us and were real inspirations.
Why is it important for businesses and organisations to motivate staff in a recession?
As human beings we thrive off motivation, what better way to increase productivity and create a positive work culture than through motivation!
What was the turning point of your business life?
For me one of the biggest moments in my business life was employing someone. It taught me a lot about myself and also about the business that I wanted to create. One of the hardest was overcoming the loss of a supplier, but at the same time it was one of the best as it allowed me to grow.
What was the turning point of your personal life?
I would probably say when my dad had serious heart problems, it made me realise how fragile life is. It also made me realise I should take more time out.
Were there times you thought you would not succeed?
Many times! The funny thing is often when I felt my lowest the next day I would be given the best opportunities, I always try to be VERY optimistic, and so far it’s kept me doing well.
What are you hoping to achieve in the future?
I would like a portfolio of businesses, to travel more and to keep having fun in my work.
Can you delegate?
At times I can, but if I feel it’s very important then I have to do it myself. I am trying to get better, but it’s not something that comes easily.
What makes a good manager or leader?
Someone who can assess the situation from the outside, leading, like it suggests is about direction. It’s about choosing the right paths and making decisions. Keeping a business, team or project heading in the right direction.
Why do you think it is important to book an external speaker?
I think having external speakers are exciting, they can say things that people within the organisation could not. The saying ‘a preacher is never welcome in his own town’. It's hard to listen when you think you know what is coming, external speakers are exciting, have had a different journey and a new perspective.
What advice would you give to youngsters who have a business idea?
Just go for it, start small, work out the easiest way to make it happen and then grow. Ask friends and family for help, and also don’t be afraid to ask already established business people for help or advice.