Anna’s ‘sparkle’ was always obvious to her colleagues and clients, from her first boss after moving to the UK, to the clients who nominated her in the 2014 FTA everywoman in Transport & Logistics Awards. One thing is clear to our Rising Star of the Year, however – the industry needs more sparkle, by the truckload.
Leaving her home country at just 19, Anna embarked on an incredible journey that would see her career rapidly transform. Packing boxes in a warehouse (her first job on arrival in the UK) was never going to satisfy her for long, but it set Anna on a path that would lead to the creation of a unique marketing business in a sector desperately in need of female role models.
Six months on from winning her everywoman award, we take a look at the golden rules for career success that saw Anna hit British ground running.
1. Hunger to succeed precedes qualifications and experience.
‘At 19 I was studying social policy at university in Poland, increasingly feeling it wasn’t for me. I had no idea what I wanted my career to look like, just a sense that I could do something bigger. One year into my course I left and moved to the UK. It was the one time in my life that I started something I didn’t finish. Initially, I took work in a warehouse but pretty soon ambition kicked in. I moved into a recruitment role and began studying for a degree in business. Though juggling a day job and studies was tough, I enjoyed the challenge.’
2. To get ahead quickly, do more than anyone expects of you.
‘I’ve always wanted to exceed others’ expectations of what I can do. In my early career, whenever I completed a project, I was immediately looking for the next challenge. My bosses saw that drive in me and gave me opportunities because of it.’
3. It’s smart to take a step down if it means you’ll take two steps up.
‘After earning great money as a recruitment consultant, moving into a lower paid administrative role at The Chartered Institute Of Logistics & Transport (CILT) could have been seen as a step-down. But the experience gave me a strong grounding in the industry and ignited a passion. Within a couple of years, I was hired as UK Marketing Manager for Geodis & Fortec Distribution Network, a global logistics operator.’
4. Before you start your own business, find your niche.
‘From my experiences in logistics, I knew there was a gap for industry-specific marketing support that combined creativity with common sense. At 25 I put these qualities together to form Myway Enterprises. Our philosophy is to treat clients’ businesses as though they’re our own. I’m proud to say that we have customers who appreciate our philosophy and are very loyal.’
5. A strong support network is critical.
‘I’ve always had great self-belief, but I’ve also been extremely fortunate to be surrounded by people who’ve believed in me too. It’s the support from those around me that’s so valuable, as they give me the boost to continually get back on my feet and push ahead.’
6. In a male-dominated environment, women have to work twice as hard for half the recognition.
‘Football executive Karren Brady CBE said this about the imbalance between recognition of males and females in the workplace. I was often stereotyped when I first started my business – the combination of being young and foreign sometimes meant I wasn’t taken seriously. I’d battle on regardless and 10 minutes into meetings I’d see perceptions change. If you’re faced with any kind of bias, keep doing what you do; you can change minds.’
7. The key to successful networking is being interested in people.
‘When I first arrived in the UK I wasn’t comfortable walking straight into networking situations; even though I’d studied English for seven years, the daily reality of speaking a foreign language is very different. People say the art of networking is making yourself interesting to other people; personally, I think your ability to listen is more important. ‘
8. Do what you love, love what you do.
‘I didn’t set out to work in logistics, but when it happened I fell in love with it. It’s a lot more than moving trucks from A to B; it’s a hugely diverse industry that comes with a vast wealth of opportunities. These opportunities are overshadowed by two issues though – the under-representation of women and the lack of young people coming through. Trade publications could be utilised more effectively to showcase role models, and hiring managers must look out for enthusiastic, sharp young people.’
9. Strive for balance.
‘My first few months in business were relentless. I was so tired from long hours that I nearly crashed my car. I’ve learned that my personal life has to be planned as much as my work life, so I schedule in time with my personal trainer, the girls, and the golf course. Regular early nights are so important, as is consciously leaving electronic devices outside the bedroom.’
10. Nominate for an everywoman Award.
‘In 2013 I attended the FTA everywoman in Transport & Logistics Awards as a guest. Despite not being involved I was filled with pride watching women I didn’t even know winning their awards. A year later and I found myself nominated for an award, which I went on to win. It was just the biggest compliment a business owner could wish for to have a client nominate me.’
11. Finding a mentor could be the most important thing you do in business.
‘Find a mentor you connect with and trust unconditionally. I have a fantastic business mentor whose teachings have helped me avoid the mistakes common to start-ups. My mentor also gave me the confidence to stick to my guns, which is crucial in the first few months of business. Early on I had to walk away from a potential customer with whom I was about to agree a large retainer. As it stood, the deal just wasn’t viable. It was hard decision to take, but it was the right thing to do.’
12. Never take anything for granted
‘I’m conscious that life can change quickly so you need to appreciate everything you have. That said I try not to worry too much. As my Nan always said, ‘Today’s worries empty tomorrow of its strength’. My other mantra is borrowed from the great Winston Churchill: “Success is not final; failure is not fatal; it’s the courage to continue that counts.”’
