On Podcast Episode 2.28 of Inside PR, the question was asked: What would you change in your career and why?
In considering this question, it seemed to me more important to look at what I’ve learned in my career. Looking back is good. Looking back and regretting what you’ve done seems to be a wasted task. I have had a varied career and learned valuable lessons in every job I’ve had, and every iteration of my own business.
In university, I learned to learn. I graduated with a general arts degree couple with an enthusiasm to learn. Since then, I have listened to bosses, colleagues, clients, occasionally (actually frequently) my husband and my children. I have learned from all of them. Seminars and professional development sessions have taught me specific skills that I can use in my business and life.
When I ran my editorial services company (before email and internet) I learned
- how to nurture good clients
- the importance of networking
- editing and proofreading skills
- about deadbeat clients
- how to fire a client
- that bookkeeping is NOT my strength
When I worked in corporate communications, I learned about
- planning
- tracking ROI
- internal communications
- newsletter writing
- media release writing
- tradeshow marketing
- presentation training
- media relations
- developing relationships with key players
Now that I am running my own B2B writing services business, all these lessons and knowledge are helping me to develop my business.
Learning is a continuous process; some lessons we learn more easily. Would I change anything along the way? I don’t think so. I now have my own version of an MBA, Managing Business Alone certification and my PhD, Positive honest, and Determined qualification.
Wishing I could change, is something I choose not to dwell on. I prefer to look at the positive; look ahead and keep learning.
