Are you a saver or a spender? I am a careful spender, but I also try to save. It's something that my parents instilled in me when I was growing up, and it is something I hope to impart to my children.
Do you shop around for better value? Where possible, I research any upcoming purchases online, particularly high-value ones. However, quite often I tend not waste time and I just make my purchases where and when I actually need them. Time is money, too!
What has been your most extravagant purchase, and how much did it cost? Back in the boom, when recruitment was soaring, I bought my husband a watch for a landmark birthday. I wouldn't do it in today's climate – however, it is a deeply treasured gift that he still wears every day.
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money? Probably my gym memberships. I love the gym and go every morning before I reach the office – it sets me up for the day. The natural endorphins and energy it gives me are priceless.
What ways do you prefer to shop – online or local? My absolute preference is to shop locally and to support Irish businesses. On occasion, I shop online, when it is more convenient, but I do tend to search out Irish stockists online, as items will arrive quicker and often in better condition.
Do you haggle over prices? For significant purchases I try to. I feel that since the recession a lot of retailers are more open to coming to an agreement; there's a lot more wiggle room to be had!
Has the recession changed your spending habits? Like most people, the recession has helped me to refine my spending habits. I generally just try to buy what my family and I need, rather than all the things we think we need.
Do you invest in shares? I used to, but got burnt in the recession, so I have withheld on investments in the past few years. I feel they are a bit too much of a gamble. What was blue-chip became fried chips!
Cash or card? Generally card, as it is easier to track my spending and I am also less prone to impulse buys when I don't have actual cash in my pocket.
What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money? The last thing I bought was an outfit from Zara for a family event. Generally with clothes I like to shop in high-street stores; there is so much choice, and very good value.
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase? My husband and I saved for our new kitchen, which we are thrilled with, as we love to entertain in the comfort of our own home and spend time with the family.
Have you ever lost money? With the exception of some lost shares, I have been lucky enough not to lose money.
Are you a gambler and, if so, have you ever had a big win? No, I'm not a gambler; it's not something that appeals to me. Even though I'm big into sports, I never feel the urge to have a flutter on a game. I do the Lotto occasionally and I'd say my biggest win was €30 in a Lotto syndicate, which is definitely a lot less than I have invested over the years!
Is money important to you? For me, money is a reward for doing something I really enjoy, to the best of my ability, so in that sense it is important to me. As with everyone, it helps provide for my family and, apart from that, money is important as a facilitator; letting me do something I am passionate about.
Seven years ago I set up Next Generation Recruitment, without the need for external investment. Money has helped me achieve my goals in life, and follow my passions.
How much money do you have on you now? Less than €2 in small change.
In conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea
