Do you want a fairy jobmother? Meet Rebecca Hopkins, co-founder of natural beauty brand Balance Me. She could be your career mentor...
Our hugely successful mentoring scheme is back. Every month, Marie Claire will introduce you to an inspirational woman, who could be just the person to turn your life around. Our first 2014 mentor, Rebecca Hopkins, co-founded natural beauty brand Balance Me with her sister in 2005. It's now stocked in John Lewis, Waitrose and Debenhams. Here, she tells us why she wants to be your career mentor...
'It's exciting to guide people and give them opportunities. I like to inspire people to use their own creative flair - there's not necessarily a "right" way of doing things. As long as you understand the business and know your objectives, you'll get there in your own way.
'I've always enjoyed the mentoring process, and still get advice from Anne Klahn, who was my head of communications at L'Oréal.
'Anyone looking to start their own brand should do their research and make sure there is a gap in the market. And don't be afraid to ask your friends and family for help. Women are very good at sharing ideas.'
Want to be mentored by Rebecca? APPLY HERE by 31 May.
The successful applicant will get an hour-long mentoring session with her, followed by two further 30-minute sessions, over a three-month period.
