Sandra Knowles is the Managing Director of Hillbans Pest Control and has recently been voted onto the board of the Isle of Wight Chamber Commerce.
What are some traits that you think good business owners possess?
Competency – I think it’s important to have the background knowledge and expertise on the subject you are dealing with. This is why I worked as a Pest Controller to gain first-hand experience and the technical know-how, which now allows me to offer advice and assistance to both our employees and our customers.
Initiative – being resourceful and taking action when necessary is a very important trait for any business owner to have. Self-management is a must for business owners as there is rarely anybody there to hold your hand and tell you what to do every step of the way!
What do you hope to take from being on the board of the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce?
Being on the board of the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce is a really exciting opportunity for me and I feel privileged to be a part of such an amazing organisation. With the knowledge I hope to gain by being on the board I would love to be able to drive both my business, Hillbans Pest Control, and myself forward through learning as much as possible. If the opportunity arises I would love to share my experience with other people and even become a mentor myself.
How do you manage a work-life balance?
I don’t believe a perfect work-life balance exists! Juggling a family with running a business is hard but it’s made easier with the help of my wonderful husband who helps me with both. I think the key is to find a balance that works for you – although there is a part of me that always wants to do more for my business I know how important it is to spend quality time with my family and relax.
How did you get where you are today, and who/what helped you along the way?
The journey has been a huge learning experience for me, and I have often found myself pushed beyond my comfort zones. There has been a lot of personal and professional growth throughout the years and although I have accomplished a lot, I am looking forward to embracing more learning as myself and Hillbans Pest Control progress further.
The ongoing support I have received from local Isle of Wight business owners, the Isle of Wight Chamber Mentor Scheme and from being a member of Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce’s has helped me astronomically. Everybody has been so welcoming and somebody is always available to answer a question or to share their experiences with you.
What’s the best advice you have received in business that you wish to pass on?
Just keep going and be yourself! Unfortunately, you aren’t going to be successful overnight, things take time but if you have patience, stay true to yourself and have the right people around you everything will come together in the end.
