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From Employed to Empowered: How Anneka Wilkins Made the Leap and Built Wilkins Talent Solutions

Leaving the security of a full-time job to go solo isn’t for the faint-hearted. But for Anneka Wilkins, founder of Wilkins Talent Solutions in Wiltshire, it wasn’t just about starting a business, it was about building a life that worked for her and her family.

After over 25 years working across in-house and agency recruitment roles, Anneka had built a reputation for being honest, insightful, and focused on matching the right talent with the right businesses. But turning 50, like many, she found herself re-evaluating what truly mattered.

“I love recruitment, but I also really value being there for my family,” Anneka shares. “I wanted to use everything I’d learned to create something with more flexibility and more heart.”

That reflection became her lightbulb moment. And in 2024, she made it happen: Wilkins Talent Solutions was born April 2025.

Based in Wiltshire and working nationally, Anneka set out to help SMEs build high-performing teams by bringing a more human, strategic approach to recruitment. She created a service where clients feel understood and supported, and candidates genuinely cared for.

Bridging the Gap for SMEs

One of the things that makes Anneka’s approach unique is her clear focus on small and medium-sized businesses. “They’re the engine of the economy, but often don’t have internal recruitment support or access to strategic advice,” she explains. “I’m not just here to fill vacancies; I’m here to become a talent partner. Someone who understands your culture, your growth plans, and your challenges.”

Her services span everything from retained recruitment to salary benchmarking and onboarding support, offering something many SMEs struggle to find: consistent, reliable recruitment that feels bespoke.

The Challenges of Starting Up Solo

Of course, going solo comes with its fair share of challenges. Anneka reflects candidly on the early days: “It’s daunting. You’re everything—HR, finance, marketing, and operations. But what kept me going was the belief that I could build something better.”

She admits it wasn’t always smooth sailing, navigating imposter syndrome, finding the right support networks, and getting comfortable with selling herself were all part of the journey. But surrounding herself with local business groups, investing in her own development, and sticking to her values helped her grow with confidence.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

For anyone thinking about leaving employment to start their own business, Anneka offers practical and heartfelt advice:

“Be really clear on your ‘why’. It’s not enough to want to work for yourself, you need a reason that drives you through the hard days. And don’t wait until you have everything perfect. Just start. You’ll learn and refine as you go.”

Anneka’s proud to be supporting businesses across the UK and building a brand that reflects her mission: ethical, people-focused recruitment with heart.

Wilkins Talent Solutions brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record across a diverse range of specialisms. Their extensive experience encompasses connecting exceptional talent within:-

· Finance & Accountancy

· Public Practice

· Human Resources

· Brand & Marketing

· Administration/Office

· Customer Services

· Sales

· Operational - Head Office

· Construction

· Legal

They work nationally across the UK offering Permanent, Temporary and Contract services.

Thinking of Going Solo?

Anneka’s story is a powerful reminder that success doesn’t always follow a traditional path. With clarity, courage, and a strong sense of purpose, it’s possible to build something of your own, on your own terms.

Visit www.wilkinstalentsolutions.co.uk to learn more about Anneka and how Wilkins Talent Solutions can support your business.