The jobs that taught me how people think
Updated: Aug 25
When I was eight, I told my parents I wanted to be a newspaper writer. I used to create my own newspapers on a typewriter. I’d write stories and diaries every day. I devoured books like Sweet Valley High and Goosebumps, sometimes finishing six in a week!
As I grew older, my reading interests shifted, but writing remained my therapy. Reading became my escape into another world and a glimpse into other people’s minds.
A Journey of Discovery
Fast forward ten years. I was juggling multiple jobs to save for a trip around the world. I dreamed of visiting Fiji, Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, and the USA.
I coached children’s gymnastics classes in the morning. Then, I rushed to an afternoon shift selling shoes at Beales in Poole. After that, I worked at a bar until midnight. Sometimes, on my way home, I’d pick up drunk people waiting for taxis and charge them for a lift!
During university and beyond, I took on various roles. I worked with children with disabilities, in pre-schools, shops, cafes, and even as an elf in Santa’s grotto! I managed care work and taught English as a foreign language.
Every single one of those jobs put me in front of a completely different kind of person, expecting a completely different kind of me.
A drunk stranger in my car doesn’t want the same conversation as a foreign student struggling with English. I didn’t realize it then, but I was building my experience and empathy. I learned what makes people listen, what makes them switch off, and what builds trust in the first ten seconds. That’s not something you learn from a textbook.
Lessons Learned
All my life experiences and jobs have taught me valuable lessons. I often think about the films I’ve watched. Many would have had happy endings if the characters had just communicated clearly!
When I studied English Language and Media, I dreamed of being a film director. Now, I have the chance to direct and produce films, albeit on a smaller scale. I’m living out my dream!
Eventually, I found my way into communications, and I’ve never looked back. I’ve worked in communication planning, PR, marketing, videography, social media, campaign planning, websites, strategies, and problem-solving. I simplify complex messages.
I’ve spent my life noticing how good communication is the foundation of all strong relationships.
I’ve always had a knack for simplifying complicated information. When someone explains a policy or process, my brain starts breaking it down while they talk. What are you really trying to say? Who needs to hear it? The same goes for confusing websites or jargon-filled pages; I can’t read them without mentally rewriting them. It’s just how my brain works, and it turns out it’s exactly what many organizations need.
Practical Tips for Effective Communication
Here are some examples and tips for better communication:
Use capital letters sparingly. This can be harder to read for people with dyslexia and those for whom English is a second language.
Choose the right font for clarity. For people with dementia, black text on a yellow background is the clearest.
Engage children effectively. Gamify your content. Use less text and more fun imagery to capture their interest.
Calm down your audience. From my time on hotel reception, I learned that showing you’re listening is key. Nod and use positive body language. If you want people to listen to you, you must first listen to them.
Good communication starts with understanding who you’re trying to reach.
I founded Comms With Style because if you’re going to say something, say it well.
If your organization isn’t being heard, seen, or experienced, let’s make sure the right people know who you are.
Contact me today!
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