To Communications!

As a Communications Professional I've been on the most vibrant journey of my life. I've met famous people, politicians, actors, sportspeople, singers, artisrs, filmmakers, authors, journalists, photographers, designers and even a King! I've attended brilliant brainstorming sessions with crazily creative people, built campaigns out of nothing, seen trends being set and fade away, and new mediums gain popularity. I've also met fearless leaders at the grassroots, awe-inspiring women, magical children and men, who break stereotypes. I've learnt to pay attention to detail, to look at the bigger picture and the importance of sticking to my principles. I've learnt that listening and observing give you access to more information than probing and poking. And I've witnessed, heard and watched story after story unfold. I've been inspired, touched, moved to tears, elated and heartbroken by these stories. I've learnt so much. 

The biggest lesson has been about knowing where to stop, where to draw the line, to respect boundaries and privacy. To treat people and issues with dignity. Another favourite has been about knowing that its okay to be different, to be a misfit, to be weird. Its okay to not follow the norms always. It's usually us weirdoes who have a more interesting story to tell :)

As a Communications Professional, there's not a single dull moment. There are ups and downs, arguments and disagreements, and the joy of creation. But most of all, its a learner's journey. Every conversation, idea, argument, perspective teaches something new. The best (and most challenging) part of being from the Communications team, is knowing about every single vertical of your organisation so as to be able to sell, market, package, brand, spread awareness! Its a thrill. Its also the frustration of never being able to make people understand - "so, what exactly do you do?" ;) 

You automatically become solution-centric. You start looking at opportunity where there's threat. 

Today marks eleven years of my tryst with Communications... eleven years of learning to look beyond the obvious.

And to think it all began with this one conversation at a house party eleven years ago.

Me (standing at a corner whining to anyone who cared to listen) - I hate my job. I hate the sector. I don't want to go to work (repeat)

Stranger (with a bewildered expression) - Child, why are you grumbling away at a party?

Me - I hate my job. I hate the sector. I don't want to go to work.

Stranger - Well. What are you looking for? What can you do? Are you good at something?

Me - I write. I can write.

Stranger -  Drop into my office tomorrow morning with your sample writings. And remember, I'm a very strict boss. Don't tell me later that I didn't warn you. And for God's sake, stop whining!!

And that was that. 

Eleven years down the line, I'm so happy I chose to say "I write". So much so, that the two words sit at the top of my resume even today. Communications is my thing. There is nothing else I'd rather be.