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TGT Meets...Anneka Wilkins - Director & Owner of Wilkins Talent Solutions
In this edition of TGT Meets, we sit down with Anneka Wilkins, the driving force behind Wilkins Talent Solutions. With a wealth of experience in the recruitment industry and a passion for connecting the right people with the right opportunities, Anneka has carved out a name for herself as a forward-thinking leader in talent acquisition. Join us as we delve into her journey, uncover what inspires her, and explore her vision for the future of recruitment.
Tell us a bit about Wilkins Talent Solutions—what inspired you to start the business?
Starting my own business has been a long-held dream, but confidence has always held me back. The recent arrival of my second grandchild was a real turning point. It highlighted a desire for better work-life balance beyond the confines of my corporate role, yet still allowing me to offer my skills and knowledge to clients and candidates.
What’s your favourite part of running a recruitment and coaching consultancy?
Honestly? My absolute favourite part of running a recruitment and coaching consultancy is the "aha!" moments – both for the people I help and the businesses I work with.
There's just something incredibly cool about connecting the dots. It's not just about finding someone a job, it's about really digging in to understand what makes a candidate tick and what a client genuinely needs, then watching that perfect match click into place. Seeing someone light up when they land that ideal role, or a company absolutely thrive because they've found the right person – that's a huge win.
But if I had to pick one thing, it's probably the coaching side of things. Getting to chat with someone, help them figure out their next career move, or a company tackle a talent acquisition challenge, or just boosting someone’s confidence is incredibly rewarding. That moment when a person suddenly sees things clearly, or realises what they're truly capable of – that's pure gold. It's all about building genuine connections and helping people (and businesses!) grow.
It makes every day feel like a real privilege, blending that strategic thinking with truly helping people and businesses move forward.
What sets Wilkins Talent Solutions apart from other recruitment agencies, and how do you support clients beyond just filling vacancies?
What really sets Wilkins Talent Solutions apart is a combination of deep experience and a genuinely personal, balanced approach.
Many agencies focus on volume, but for me, it's about quality connections and long-term fit. Having spent over 25 years in recruitment, both in agencies and directly within companies, I've seen things from every angle. This gives me a unique perspective on what candidates truly need and what businesses are really looking for beyond just a job description.
But it's more than just experience.
What makes Wilkins Talent Solutions different is:
- The Personal Touch: You're not just a number or a CV here. I take the time to truly listen to your career aspirations as a candidate, or to your company culture and strategic needs as a client. It's about building authentic relationships, not just filling quotas.
- A Holistic View: My work isn't just about recruitment; it's about coaching and development too. This means I can offer more comprehensive support, whether it's helping individuals navigate their career path or advising clients on how to best develop their teams.
- Balanced & Authentic: I started Wilkins Talent Solutions to achieve a better work-life balance myself, and that philosophy extends to how I approach my work. It means I'm invested in making genuinely good matches that lead to sustained satisfaction for everyone involved, rather than just quick wins.
In essence, Wilkins Talent Solutions offers the strategic insight of a seasoned recruiter with the dedication and bespoke support of a true partner. It's about making meaningful connections that work for the long haul.
What’s your go-to productivity hack or daily routine that keeps you focused?
My absolute go-to productivity hack, especially in this consulting world, is starting my day with "Deep Work Blocks".
Before I even glance at my emails or LinkedIn – typically between 8:30 and 10:30 AM – I dedicate that time to the most important, complex, or creative tasks on my plate. This is when I tackle things like crafting bespoke candidate search strategies, developing a new coaching program, or preparing for a big client meeting.
Why does it work for me?
- Peak Energy: My brain is freshest in the morning, so I get the most challenging work done when I'm at my sharpest.
- No Distractions: It's before the flurry of calls and messages starts. This protected time allows for true focus without constant interruptions.
- Momentum Builder: Getting a significant chunk of key work done early creates a huge sense of accomplishment and positive momentum for the rest of the day.
It's amazing how much I can achieve in those two uninterrupted hours. It sets the tone for a productive day, ensuring I'm always moving the needle on my most impactful work before the daily whirlwind begins!
If you could give one piece of advice to someone job hunting right now, what would it be?
If I could give one piece of advice to someone job hunting right now, it would be this: Tailor your application, especially your CV and cover letter, for every single job you apply for.
Don't just send out a generic CV. Take the time to:
- Analyse the job description: Identify the key skills, experience, and keywords the employer is looking for.
- Align your experience: Rework your CV and cover letter to highlight the experiences and accomplishments that directly relate to the specific requirements of the role. Use the same language and terminology used in the job description.
- Show don't just tell: Instead of just listing responsibilities, quantify your achievements whenever possible (e.g., "Increased sales by 15%", "Managed a budget of £X million").
This targeted approach takes more time, but it significantly increases your chances of getting noticed and securing an interview, as it demonstrates to the hiring manager that you've done your homework and are genuinely interested in their specific opportunity.
When you’re not matching talent with opportunity, how do you unwind?
When I'm not immersed in the world of connecting exceptional talent with the perfect opportunities, I make sure to carve out time for activities that truly help me unwind and recharge.
A big part of my downtime is spent with my furry companions – I absolutely love spending time with my two crazy dogs. Whether it's long walks in the countryside or just a good cuddle on the sofa, their company is incredibly therapeutic. Family time is also super important; those moments spent together, whether it's over a meal or just enjoying each other's company, are so valuable and help ground me.
Beyond that, I find a lot of peace and satisfaction tending to my allotment. There's something incredibly rewarding about being outdoors, working with the soil, and watching things grow. It's a wonderful way to switch off from the digital world and connect with nature, plus the fresh produce is a bonus! And for a more relaxed evening, you might find me settled in, enjoying a good game of darts.
Finally, if Wilkins Talent Solutions had a motto, what would it be?
Wilkins Talent: Turning 'what if?' into 'what a fantastic career!’
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