Rachel Scott - Founder of Lemon Drizzle Recruitment
What inspired you to start your own recruitment agency?
After 15 years in the industry it was a long held dream to form my own business and do things my way. Two years ago I finally took the plunge and have never looked back.
Where does the name Lemon Drizzle originate from?
When I started in the industry my Grandmother used to bake her special brand of lemon cake which I used to take with me when visiting sites. I quickly became known as “Rachel with the lemon cakes!” She was a real inspiration to me and gave the recipe before she sadly passed away. The business name is very much in tribute to her.
What services do you offer?
I offer permanent recruitment services within the construction sector for regional contractors and sub contractors. The majority of my clients are North East based but I also cover Yorkshire and the Midlands.
What are the biggest challenges you have faced so far?
Working on my own means I have to be very self disciplined. Sometimes the role can be quite lonely and I miss collaborating with colleagues. However, I really appreciate the freedom working for myself gives me and it is hugely rewarding when a placement comes together where I’ve managed the process completely independently.
The job is a real rollercoaster but, despite its challenges, I wouldnt swap it for the world.
What qualities do you look for when placing candidates?
My clients mainly look for quantity surveyors who can run a project independently from a commercial perspective, and estimators who can manage the tender process efficiently and work quickly to tight deadlines. Those are the key things I focus on, alongside a good attitude, a solid track record, and experience working for a similar type of business.
What advice would you give to anyone looking to work in the recruitment and construction industries?
Recruitment – Become a market expert in your chosen specialism and stick at it. Also important to not be afraid to fail and work hard in what can be a relentless environment.
Construction – If you’re interested in white-collar construction roles, I’d definitely look at a degree apprenticeship. You work full-time, get hands-on experience, and go to uni one day a week to learn the theory behind it. It’s also funded through the government levy scheme, which is a big help with the cost of higher education.
What is the best piece of business advice you have received?
Try and always have enough money to be able to cover your salary and business costs for three months.
Also important to remember the old adage “For every person who says no, you’re one call closer to getting a yes.”
Who are your heroes and mentors?
I’ve picked up a lot from different people over the years rather than someone specific. In recruitment, I’ve learned a lot from experienced consultants who’ve shown me the value of really knowing your market and staying consistent. In construction, I’ve always respected the people who’ve worked their way up and built proper careers through hard work and graft. I also really admire my mam. She’s still working incredibly hard, which I really look up to.
What is your greatest strength?
The recruitment industry is always challenging so undoubtedly resilience!
How do you like to unwind?
Putting my apron on and baking lemon cakes! I also love to spend time with my two amazing boys, walk my dog, Peggy Sue the Cavapoo, and socialise with my friends.
What does the future hold?
I certainly don’t want to take over the world! As this business is such a personal brand I’d like to retain full control of what I do and continue to do it better.
www.lemondrizzlerecruitment.com