Beyond the Job Title
Shared Strengths for Success in Seemingly Disparate Careers
It has been thrilling to reconnect with so many former colleagues from the world of communications thanks to my recent career shift ... and it's been insightful to have some conversations with fellow artists on how I -- specifically -- have transitioned so smoothly.
Imposter syndrome comes knocking
I was 19 when the admissions committee at a prestigious design college in India said I was “clearly not an artist!” There was such finality to their statement as they flipped through my portfolio of meticulously-colored portraits, detailed landscapes and poignant poetry. I was deemed “
While my transition may appear seamless, I believe the key lies not in unique talents but in shared strengths that transcend traditional boundaries. What I see is a series of common threads in both my interest areas.
Let me elaborate.
Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: As a creativity facilitator and as a communications strategist, I have to listen well. Most of the women creatives I work with are tied down by insecurities and imposter syndrome, so much so that they are afraid to start. Most of the Type-A men I work with in the CEO/CTO roles have lofty goals and aspirations and a relentless sense of urgency! Despite these differences, my approach stays consistent: I listen to their concerns and limitations, help them identify their strengths and areas of growth, work with them to uncover what truly matters and differentiate it from "fluff." Ultimately, these conversations help them achieve clarity, confidence and the courage to follow their unique path.
Communication and Building Trust: The strategist in me has to distill complex ideas into concise, persuasive language. As a creativity facilitator, I have to be able to help a client articulate their deepest thoughts and emotions through visual storytelling, using paints, colors and techniques. Both roles require the ability to translate abstract concepts into actionable steps and two-way communication becomes essential in each. I engage in a continuous dialogue, asking probing questions, actively listening to responses, and observing non-verbal cues ... all the while building a safe space for honest, heartfelt conversations.
Adaptability and Agility: In the C-suite, priorities shift rapidly requiring swift changes to messaging and strategy. In the life of a creativity facilitator, a client's emotional block can show up unannounced with a whole lot of baggage in tow. As a successful strategist, I need to pivot messaging and refine our approach on a dime, working collaboratively with other members of the team. Likewise, as a creativity facilitator, I have to accept the fluidity and fickleness of the creative process, adapt my strategies and meet the most current needs of my client. In both these roles, it comes down to embracing change, maintaining a flexible mindset, and finding creative solutions to unexpected challenges.
Visionary Thinking and Narrative Storytelling: I love this part of both my jobs! It is so fulfilling to be a catalyst for women who have never envisioned their creativity blossoming and to help them form a new narrative beyond their self-limiting doubts. It is equally satisfying to sit down with the C-suite and help them articulate their aspirations and communicate a compelling vision for the future. Whether it's guiding a woman to discover her unique artistic voice or helping a CEO crystallize a bold new strategy, I step in to encourage, inspire and unlock new ideas, new ways of thinking, and new possibilities.
Whether I'm igniting creativity in women's hearts or strategizing with C-suite execs, I believe my passion and excitement is apparent and contagious. I thrive on finding creative solutions, fostering compassion, nurturing self-expression, and building resilience with a positive mindset.
I love this quote from Brené Brown:
"Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing we'll ever do."
It speaks to the courage required to be truly authentic and to embrace our unique stories, talents, and aspirations. It's a powerful reminder that self-belief is the foundation for personal and professional growth.
I know I'm not alone in this exhilarating journey. Many of you, especially those who've embraced career transitions, probably feel the same.
So, I ask you: What fuels your passion across diverse roles, and how do you harness that energy to create a life that truly reflects your multifaceted self?