Ref. 30847-38Claire Kaminski. Age: 25, Employer: Robert Half International

So what do you actually do? I'm a recruitment consultant for a specialist agency I spend the majority of my day meeting clients and candidates, getting to know them and understanding their specific requirements. The skilled part, which I take most satisfaction from, is matching the right people to the right role ultimately one that will complement their skills and personality. It's really satisfying to know that you're helping people to progress in their career.

What do you hate most about your job? It can be long hours, but to be honest the rewards are worth it as we receive good financial packages. My boss understands the importance of work/life balance and encourage us to take two "flexis" a week this means we can go home an hour earlier or start an hour later twice a week great if you're planning a big night out.

Do you think your colleagues like you? I'm pretty sure they do! We're a close team so I'd like to think I'd know if they didn't, and besides, I make the best cup of tea in the office!

What's the best bit of advice you've ever been given? Work-wise, the best bit of advice has come from my current boss, who says "CVs are a reason to exclude rather than include." We need to teach employers that you can't tell what a candidate is like just from their CV. You need to speak to someone who's met them. The other bit of general life advice is from my Dad 'Always have goals in life, short, medium and long term', I really believe this helps you progress in whatever you want to do it makes ambitions a lot easier to reach!

What's the best bit of gossip you have ever heard about yourself? When I came back from travelling I heard I was married which was a bit spooky and nearly got me into lots of trouble with my friends and family... not to mention my boyfriend!

What job did you want to do when you were young? A professional ice skater, but failing that I wanted to be a high-powered business woman with lots of money and a big car! I guess that's what comes of being a child of the 80s.

Hobbies: I ice skate regularly... and socialising comes as a perk of the job!

In job terms, who or what has been your greatest influence? My mum has been my greatest influence, both personally and professionally. She has been very successful in her own career which I believe has been a result of her excellent work ethic. She has always taught me to never let people down and to stand by what I do. She's the most positive person I know which is vital in recruitment.