What talent do you naturally have that makes you successful?
The talent that I feel I naturally have is creativity and this is a skill that enables you to be more successful in whatever you are doing.
When did you first realise that talent was going to help you and how do you use it?
Looking back I think I had this talent from a young age but have only really been aware of how it continues to help me over the past ten years. I have always had a 'magpie' personality where I am constantly seeking 'shiny new things' to interest me. I am also a tenacious problem solver. The combination of the two enables me to be creative in all aspects of my life.
Creativity is a talent (and also a skill - everyone can learn to be more creative) that I use everyday. In my role as Head of Expression at Added Value I have to deliver great creative impact, inspire a more creative culture and develop the creative team. Creativity is about originality of thinking and this touches every part of my role from creating a visual identity for a workshop to working out the best way of the team hitting their deadlines.
It doesn't stop when I leave work either - I have to be creative about what meal I am going to attempt to cook from the contents of my fridge and help my friends find an original way of thinking about their latest relationship dilemma!
What emotional attachment do you have to your work?
The emotional attachment I have to my work is one of excitement. No two days are the same - every day, every project is a new combination of stuff that need a unique outcome. Pride is another one - when you have delivered a really creative solution to a problem that everyone is pleased with.
What tips do you have for other women who'd like to do your job?
Plenty! Everyone can be more creative - you just have to have the right tools, so do some research and start practicing your creativity. Start exploring - discover and learn as many different things as you can. Being creative is about piecing those different things together to get something new - the more you have discovered, the more creative you will be able to be.
Be brave! Coming up with new ideas will always be met by criticism - take constructive feedback on board as your idea may become better but don't let anyone destroy your creativity without a good reason! Lastly have some self-belief - especially if you think you are not creative. We all are - its just that some of us have been conditioned to think we are not from a young age. This is nonsense. Find out more about Emma and Added Value
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