At PepTalkHer, we’re on a mission to empower YOU to know your worth and to understand your value in the workplace. And what better way to start than by asking our favourite women in business?
We interviewed CEO and entrepreneur, Fleur Madden, about all things career! Fleur is the CEO of Freelancing Gems, a community and job platform for women. Let’s get right into it!
Meggie: Hey Fleur, thanks for chatting with us today! Let’s get started. First question - How would you describe yourself in one sentence?
Fleur: CEO of Freelancing Gems, Female Founder, Entrepreneur, Mum, wife, daughter, sister and a fabulous friend!
Meggie: Awesome answer! Speaking of your roles as a CEO, Female Founder, and Entrepreneur, how did you get to where you are today?
Fleur: Resilience and tenacity. You have to be prepared to get back in the ring and keep fighting when you get knocked down. I also know no one is coming to save me, so you have to take control of your own destiny and create the life and career of your dreams!
“You have to be prepared to get back in the ring and keep fighting when you get knocked down”
Meggie: Love that comparison! On a different note, what is a major or memorable moment from your career journey?
Fleur: The day I settled on the sale of my first business to a multinational business. I had owned that business for 14 years. It was such a major milestone in my life as I had started that business when I was 23 and sold it when I was 36, so it had defined who I was as an adult. For the first time in my life I was free to make decisions that were right for me and my family, not decisions that were right for the business as the CEO and the throat to choke.
Meggie: Wow, sounds like quite the milestone! Shifting gears a bit, what advice do you have for anyone looking to build their own brand? Love to know how it relates to your journey!
“Be consistent, live and breathe your brand every day”
Fleur: Be consistent, live and breathe your brand every day, recruit people that will also be amazing brand ambassadors. I personally resonate with brands that stand for something and have a really clear authentic voice.
“I personally resonate with brands that stand for something and have a really clear authentic voice”
Meggie: Consistency is key! Next question - How do you prepare for negotiation conversations? We'd love to hear all your hacks & top tips or awesome advice you've received!
Fleur: Know your worth, ensure you are competitive in the market and that you aren't under selling yourself which women have a tendency to do. When you are negotiating pay, always keep your eye contact also, looking away or around the room indicates it isn't an important conversation or you are uncomfortable.
Meggie: Yes - knowing your worth is super important! Last Question - are there any interesting or helpful podcasts you’ve been listening to that you would recommend?
Fleur: I love the Create and Cultivate Podcast Work Party!
Meggie: Amazing! Fleur, thanks again for taking the time to chat with us today! We appreciate it.
To hear more from Fleur, check out her Instagram @fleurcmadden, and to learn more about her company, Freelancing Gems, find them on Instagram @freelancinggems, or on their website.