Anne Walker was just 17 when she became an entrepreneur by way of opening her own dance school. Shortly after launching the business, she spotted a market gap for affordable clothing in the dancewear industry.
From humble beginnings making and selling her own clothes in the 1980s, Anne has developed her company International Dance Supplies into a £8 million-turnover business. In 2010, Anne was awarded an MBE for her contribution to business. The following year, she won the Hera Award at the NatWest everywoman Awards.
Speaking to everywoman, Anne says a will to overcome any obstacle and confident approach to business are driving forces behind any successful venture.
HAVE YOU ALWAYS BEEN CONFIDENT?
Gosh no, quite the opposite. Not many people appreciate how unconfident I was; teachers used to say to my parents that I was as quiet as a mouse. Rather than becoming more confident, I have got better at coping with situations that I was not confident in.
WAS THERE A TURNING POINT IN YOUR CAREER WHEN YOU SUDDENLY BECAME MORE CONFIDENT?
I don’t remember experiencing a turning point. In fact, when I was first starting out, I found it easier talking to a whole school of parents and students than holding a business meeting.
DID YOU FEEL MORE CONFIDENT WITH THE SUBJECT MATTER WHEN ADDRESSING A SCHOOL THAN WITH THE ISSUES YOU’D COVER IN A BUSINESS MEETING?
Yes, I would say so. I remember being asked to speak at a mail order industry event and I was absolutely terrified about doing it. But I knew I had to face my demons, which is what I did.
WHAT DOES BEING CONFIDENT MEAN TO YOU?
In my career, doors have opened, both professionally and personally, because I had the confidence to say ‘yes’ to things. I have had experiences and met people I wouldn’t have come across had I not taken those opportunities.
WHAT WORDS OF WISDOM WOULD YOU SHARE WITH SOMEONE WHO DOESN’T FEEL CONFIDENT?
A lack of confidence often stems from focusing on a worry you have about yourself, but if you focus that energy on someone else, they will benefit from the attention you give them and you will overcome your fear by concentrating on something more positive. It’s important to remember that those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind.
