I’ve been earnestly looking for a job (amidst the pandemic) for a while. I get nibbles, but no firm bites. I don’t have enough media relations experience, they say. I’m better suited for a corporate communications position, they say. I’ve heard it all.
But as my search drags on, one comment hearkens in my mind. It came several years ago from someone I admire, but who chilled my respect.
During a programming event I had planned for her to speak, I asked during dinner what her hiring preference would be in a tight market. Very plainly, she stated, “I’ll hire someone with little experience over a seasoned professional in a heartbeat. That way, I can mold them into what I want in a professional.”
I was stunned, and take great exception to that. I’ve had several jobs in my career that have spanned a variety of industries. To think that I could walk into any position and impose my own voice or style is absurd. Ever employer, every environment, every brand has its own voice and style. A professional communicator’s job is to convey that style.
As an example, over the summer I interviewed for a part-time position with an attorney who offered me the job. He is an outspoken professional who holds very different views on many things than I do, but I only knew that by reviewing his website, podcasts, and social media posts. We never discussed it in person.
He asked me during the second interview how I felt about his public stance on the issues he supports and how I could represent him as someone who is so outspoken on current political events.
I answered quite honestly, “My job as a professional communicator is not to inject my own thoughts or feelings on the matters that you represent or stand for. It’s not about me, it’s about you. I am simply a conduit of your voice to your audience.”
Then he ghosted me. Despite my attempts, I never heard from him again.
My point is this: Don’t discount experienced professionals for a lack of flexibility.
During my unemployment, I have freelanced for various contractors in different industries. Each requires a different tone and voice. Every environment is different. I have adapted, which is why I get repeat assignments. Just because I have experience, don’t count me out as an old dog that can’t learn new tricks. Nothing could be farther from the truth. I LOVE to learn new things and ways to do them, and welcome the opportunity to help someone looking for my adaptable skills.
Contact me to learn more.