What type of person thrives in the Communication industry, according to a Brand Strategist at JessKimia Consulting
Jessica Kimia, a Brand Strategist and Business Consultant, notes that while the communication industry constantly evolves, a "sense of confidence and being comfortable with being outgoing" is generally helpful. However, Jessica also emphasizes the ability to "create" one's niche, highlighting that introverted individuals can still thrive by focusing on meaningful connections and asking for what they want.
Communication, Confidence, Networking, Public Speaking, Social Skills
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Jessica Hekmat
Brand Strategist + Business Consultant
JessKimia Consulting
Boston University
MBA from UCLA Anderson School of Management
Communications
Consulting & Related Professional Services, Advertising, Communications & Marketing
Entrepreneurship and Business Owner
None Applicable
Video Highlights
1. Confidence and comfort with being outgoing are helpful, but adaptable introverts can also thrive by focusing on meaningful connections.
2. The industry is constantly evolving, so adaptability is key. Skills needed 15 years ago are different now.
3. Specialization can allow for less extroverted work styles; focus on what you want and create your niche
Transcript
How would you describe people who typically thrive in this industry?
This is a tricky question. I never want people to feel like they have to be labeled or identify a certain way in order to thrive, especially in an industry like communication that continues to change and evolve rapidly.
When I was in PR 15 years ago, communication was very different than it is now. The skills that were necessary then have changed, and they will continue to change.
In general, you see people who portray a sense of confidence and are comfortable being outgoing and meeting people. I personally have realized over the years that I'm actually more introverted than I thought, but I'm able to recharge my batteries and show up for the job.
Ultimately, I really love meaningful connections, and that's what charges me and keeps me going. So if that means meeting people in a large party or conference environment, or speaking on a panel with a couple hundred people, you have to be comfortable with public talking to a certain extent.
I also feel that depending on your niche, you can kind of create it. You might be a marketer that only works with a certain type of entrepreneur and doesn't need to be in larger groups or collaborating with larger teams.
However, in general, I think having the ability to be a little more extroverted, outgoing, and social in that way is very helpful. That also allows people to open up and share more vulnerably, which allows me to do my job better.
Advizer Personal Links
jesskimia.com, https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicakimiabakhsh