Duo keeps clear focus on avoiding the mediocre

What makes your day at work?


Nicola: A feeling at the end of the day that I've had fun and contributed in some way - there is nothing better than a client or candidate phoning me on the service they have received.

Heather: Seeing a candidate's career change as a consequence of our involvement and receiving positive feedback from the market.

How did you get where you are today?


Nicola: I initially targeted this industry as the combination of people and business consulting was attractive. Then I just got on with life, making the most of every opportunity.

Heather: This question implies that we have made it. The most important thing is always moving forward both personally and professionally and certainly as an organisation, and getting better each day. The key to success is focus, hard work and a commitment to our team and clients.

What was the most important thing you learnt on your way up?


Nicola: To listen to others who have confidence in you and to have confidence in yourself.

I believe in managed fate; luck only plays a small part.

Heather: It's like bringing up children: the most important thing I have learnt is that whenever you think you are on to it, you're not.

Translated, this means complacency is a dangerous thing.

What pitfalls have you come across on your way up?


Nicola: No particular instances spring to mind - but I am constantly seeking advice from others.

My husband has been a great influence and Heather and I practically read each other's minds!

Heather: The most important factor in success is a clear focus on what you are doing.

Earlier on in my career I lacked focus. There is nothing like having a family to help you focus on why you go to work each day.

What advice would you give a young person starting out on a business career?


Nicola: Join a company that truly values people and has world-class practices in all they do.

Be a sponge and gain a strong diverse base in your chosen discipline.

Heather: Work in areas that you are passionate about.

Be honest in all your dealings with people.

What's the biggest challenge for your organisation in the present economy?


Nicola: To differentiate itself from the mediocre and continue to be innovative and ahead of the industry, never losing the personal touch in this technological age.

Heather: We are selective about the clients we work with and this is a challenge within a marketplace the size of New Zealand.

What ambitions do you have?


Nicola: Our vision includes adding other pieces of business - a key area being mentoring of young professionals starting out in their careers and more mature executives wanting an objective view.

I guess this is a social rather than a business ambition.

Heather: We want to be the best in the industry.

On a more personal note, I would eventually like to do something different, probably take drama training and I would like to be involved in working with adolescents determined to succeed but not permitted by circumstances - perhaps establish a school in Auckland for teenage mothers.

How do you relax?


Nicola: Actively, with my family and friends.

Heather: By spending time with my family. My daughter Jemima can make me laugh every day - laughter is a great form of relaxation.

* Nicola Pohlen and Heather Kean spoke with Dita De Boni.