We need to communicate with empathy and purpose. Easier said than done! Thankfully, episode 13 of the Informational Interview 2.0 podcast will provide you with practical tips and guidance. Deirdre Breakenridge, CEO of Pure Performance Communications, developed a model for communications called FEEL: facing your Fears, engaging with Empathy, using Ethics and good judgment and unleashing the Love of your mission across communication channels for genuine engagement to build unbreakable bonds. Deirdre’s work now focuses on using this proprietary model in her work as a consultant.
The “L” of the FEEL model - love of your mission - can be challenging for many, especially students and younger professionals. Deirdre shared that “things are going to change throughout your career. We all grow. What we think success entails at age 20 might be different by age 30 and in your 40s. But what is one thing that you really love to do and is a problem you are solving that people would pay for, yet you would do this for free.”
To find this mission, Deirdre advised that you:
You can take the FEEL First Test at this link.
In addition, Deirdre shared that there are many ways we can innovate in our own careers by networking with other individuals. Conversations alone won’t suffice; you need to truly and actively listen. For example, based on the learning from the conversations during her research project, she is now in the process of authoring a new book entitled Answers for Ethical Marketers.
She encouraged others to also create content as part of their career journeys.
“When you do this, you learn, grow, expand your horizons and meet new people. You also open up yourself to new opportunities.”
To be more effective at content creation and develop clarity around career goals, Deirdre advised that you closely follow the work of other professionals.
“If you find a professional who is inspiring and you like their content, think about what they are doing. Look at their website, blog and social media channels. Engage and share their work.”
By doing this, you then have a foundation in place and can potentially reach out to try setting up an opportunity to connect for a phone call or meeting.
You can learn more about Deirdre’s work at her blog, connect with her on LinkedIn and listen to her podcast Women Worldwide.
The Informational Interview 2.0 Podcast is brought to you by the Global Innovators Academy's "Interview an Innovator" course experience and by Career Path Writing Solutions.
