Q&A with Barlin Khaneja, The Chat Shop's new Account Manager

1. Tell us a bit about you.

I love being able to say I am not just Bilingual but Multilingual! I was born and grew up in Sweden which means I am fluent in Swedish. Moving to England I knew around 2/3 sentences in English which at that time was a bit of a struggle! Apart from Swedish and English I also speak Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu.

My career background has mainly been focused around the healthcare industry; this is mainly because I would feel a sense of achievement by knowing I am helping people. However, I decided I wanted to step into a different career. I had to think long and hard about what I wanted to do next, the main thing for me was to make sure I could carry forward the sense of achievement I thrive off – helping people.

I decided I wanted to get into networking with clients whilst helping them with their businesses. Here I am today working for The Chat Shop as an Account Manager, doing exactly what I wanted to do!

2. How did you learn about us?

I searched for an Account Management position and The Chat Shop stood out for me!

3. Why did you decide to join The Chat Shop?

I have always worked for big corporate organisations, which to some extent is what most people would love to do. I wanted my next job to be a start-up/medium sized organisation; I want to be able to grow with the organisation.

I’ve never previously worked in an industry that provides chat to businesses, so for me this was a completely new challenge (and everyone knows how much I love a challenge). Of course it also allows me to do what I have been doing for many years; delivering exceptional service to my clients.

4. How has The Chat Shop been so far and what do you want to accomplish?

There is only one way to describe it: Caring. Whether it’s employees, clients, potential clients etc, you are well looked after and cared for!

We’re like a family and this shows the minute you walk through the door.

Whenever starting a new job I always have a 6 months plan/vision. For the first 6 months I would like to focus on my role to make sure I understand the job, clients, and partner organisations like the back of my hand.

I want to make sure I am able to help my clients in every way possible, whether that is answering any questions they have, running through reports etc.

I want to be able to make a difference to my client accounts by building a strong relationship and building and growing their businesses.

5. What is your long-term focus at The Chat Shop?

I like to think and dream big. With that being said long term I would like to focus on building a career with The Chat Shop.

I would like to expand my portfolio and building on my networks. I love getting new clients as it gives me a wider knowledge of different businesses – knowledge is key!

6. What do you do for fun outside of work?

I love playing football!

7. Favourite football team?

Arsenal!