Who are you?

Russell Wardrop, co-founder and chief executive of Kissing with Confidence

What does your business do?

We create and deliver programmes on business growth, leadership and pitching for individuals and teams located all over the world.

Where are you based?

We are headquartered in Glasgow and have an office in London.

Glasgow was the obvious place to set up because we were already living in the city but to be honest during the week we’re mostly living out of a suitcase as a lot of our work is in London and Europe.

But it’s always nice to come home.

How did you get started?

I studied architecture at Strathclyde University and was a practising architect before becoming an academic.

I became Director of Placements at West of Scotland University and that got me interested in the skills people needed to get on in business and life.

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At the same time I was an active member of the Junior Debating Team which I loved.

I really loved to talk, and still do!

I was also aware that many people I’d met throughout my career felt intimidated by sales and new business development and I thought to combine the two.

I started the business along with our managing director, Sharon McLellan.

What is your background, education and previous work experience?

I studied architecture at Strathclyde University and was a practising architect before becoming an academic.

What is your top tip for business?

Guard your reputation.

Personal and professional integrity is crucial.

Be appropriately memorable, be polite, positive and give compliments and above all, make sure you keep all promises.

How long has your business been running for?

19 years and can’t quite believe we’ll be celebrating 20 years in 2020!

Has anyone helped you get started and how?

My dad. He was 35 when he started his own successful business, and I was the same age when I started KWC.

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He taught me the importance of a good work ethic. I also had some good mentors.

What was your first deal?

Graham Technology in Inchinnan.

We worked with them for over a decade.

What was your biggest mistake/or what would you do differently?

I really do not know.

I make mistakes every day and then forget about them.

Maybe not following up enough in the early years.

Who was/is your mentor/or inspiration?

My dad.

Where do you plan your business to be in five years time?

Heading towards a £5m turnover, with me moving to an elder statesman role.

Useful contacts, websites and business emails.

info@kissingwithconfidence.com

Entrepreneurial Scotland - www.entrepreneurialscotland.com

Junior Chamber International - www.jci.org.uk