It’s all about me
It’s all about me
It’s not all about me, it’s all about you. But if you want to know more about me, here’s your chance.
Falling into PR
I ‘fell into’ public relations, as so many of my generation did, being fortunate to have a contact in a small PR agency specialising in graphic design clients. My first client was Adobe – then the fourth largest software company in the world. We sent out press releases by fax and snail mail in those days and I spent most of my time wrapping up software for couriers to deliver to journalists.
We were tech pioneers.
Recruitment part I
Fast forward six years and three PR agencies later, and I ‘fell into’ recruitment. I was looking for another job. I didn’t think PR played to my strengths, but didn’t know what else to do. Finding myself at a bit of a crossroads I met several recruiters. Some were better than others. The worst made promises they didn’t keep and raised my expectations, only to ignore all my follow up calls and emails. It was disheartening.
Fortunately, I had one great conversation with a sympathetic recruitment consultant, which led to a job offer working with her. I made it my mission to become the recruitment consultant I wanted on my side as a candidate: a kind and honest adviser who keeps her promises.
For 13 years I was employed as a recruitment consultant, finding interim assignments for PR, corporate communications and internal communications professionals. I had my two children during this time and climbed the corporate ladder.
But something was missing. I had a creative itch I needed to scratch.
Pivot!
In 2014 I had the crazy idea of becoming a makeup artist for midlife women, so I gave up my well-paid, secure permanent job, took a makeup course and launched myself into the world of beauty.
I lasted six months.
That time taught me so much about myself. I don’t regret a moment, and still enjoy playing with makeup and creating silly videos for social media.
Recruitment part II
Recruitment came calling again in the form of two former colleagues, with whom I set up Comms Leaders. We are all self-employed but with the backbone and support of a partnership, so that we can collaborate on projects together. Our skills complement each other perfectly. You can read more about us on the recruitment page.
Since I became self-employed, I have also developed a blog. My initial focus was on all things lifestyle, but I am now blogging on this website about personal and professional development.
Always learning
During lockdown #2 in September 2020, I had a lightbulb moment to start a career podcast. Having interviewed thousands of candidates during my career, I figured some of them would be keen to share their stories. It’s been fascinating learning about so many specialist areas of communications – from ESG and corporate activism to crisis communications.
Right here, right now
I am passionate about personal development and make it my mission to learn a new skill every year. I have taken courses in makeup artistry, Reiki and social media marketing among many others. In the last year, I’ve taught myself how to create and edit a podcast, use a sewing machine and plant seedlings. I failed at that last one – the dog dug them all up. But I did learn from it – that I hate gardening.
I have also trained as a coach. I am now applying these new skills to support people at a career crossroads. Coaching teases out the answers which are already inside you.
What does all this mean to you? Well, now I knit together all my skills and experience to help you make the most of your career.
I love helping people. So whether you need practical advice to create a brilliant CV or shine in interviews; or coaching to find the answers you’re looking for, I am here to support you.
Anyway, enough about me. Tell me about you!
Please get in touch and let’s talk about how we can work together.
Best wishes
Vicki