Getting to know you: Rachel Blackburn, US2U Consulting

What do you currently do?
My role is all about helping individuals and organisations to be more successful. So this could be through activities such as 1:1 coaching and mentoring, managing change in organisations, developing HR best practice or helping companies to build their customer and client relationships.
Like our strapline says, I am passionate about making a positive difference and this is what our clients are telling us we have been doing for the last five years.  
What is your inspiration in business?
The challenge to do things better than our competitors.  
Who do you admire?
Business figureheads, such as Lord Sugar, who have had the vision, drive, energy and ability to work with the right people to make things happen.
  
Looking back, are there things you would have done differently?
I would have started the business earlier!
What defines your way of doing business?
Our values – tailor-made solutions, inspirational, responsive customer service, strong relationships, encouraging diversity and understanding client needs. These core values define our way of doing business. We use these principles every day and these, along with our Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy, make us different to our competitors.
  
What advice would you give to someone just starting out?
Be prepared to work harder than you have ever worked before in your life. Make sure you are passionate about what you do. Get practical support from family and friends and choose professional suppliers who can work with your values.
I would also recommend making a point of learning new things every day – from customers, through to reading and networking, and by getting feedback along the way as to how you are doing and what you can do to improve.