It's interesting the number of women who only really realise their talents because someone takes the trouble to point them out. In the case of our next Pink Expert, that's exactly what happened over 20 years ago! Anne's clients certainly recognise her talent too and it literally takes her from strength to strength. I love reading all my pink experts' answers but I have to admit Anne's really struck a chord with me and I think it will with you too.
What would recognising your talents do for you? Read about Anne's experience and then tell me about yours;
1. What talent do you naturally have that makes you successful?
A laser-like ability to nail the issues. It's an insight that comes from having an acute sensitivity to people, feelings and external environments. I've subsequently honed it by working with many different types of businesses and market sectors. I'm very think/feel oriented and learnt as a child to Intellectualize my way out of trouble. This has developed into a business skill for understanding markets and cultures and an ability to make deep connections for clients by putting them in touch with what they're capable of being. I spend time understanding them, assessing strategic options and using insights creatively to develop business capabilities. I'm pragmatic and like to get to the nub of any challenge, being mouthy makes me a good orator and deep down I'm a bit of a maverick. Companies find the combination refreshing and a good sounding board for when they're thinking about how to manage change, scope out new opportunities or right-size to make the best of what they have.
2. When did you first realise that talent was going to help you and how do you use it?
In my first job, as an Account director at Saatchi & Saatchi over twenty years ago, my boss told me half-jokingly I had a 'very good bedside manner' - that's when I realized this talent was showing up as a strength in terms of inspiring others and creating enduring relationships. I've been good at this all my career. The clients and companies I work with see me as an enabling force because my focus is on them and developing their capabilities for their own sake. Sometimes the more I aim to make myself redundant the more work I have, people can trust me, it's something they value.
You can visit Anne's website by clicking here but don't leave it there, consider your own talents, why not answer the questions above yourself and send them to me, lynette@pinkskills.co.uk I'd love to read them and feature you aswell.
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