If it doesn’t solve a problem, why are we doing it?
That’s become my mantra since completing the IoIC FastTrack course. I was part of the March 2024 cohort, alongside a lovely group of IC professionals, spanning a wide breadth of roles and industries. I’d been in a full-time internal communications role for about two years at that point and felt I would benefit from carving out regular space and time to explore my skills, motivations and areas for development. Specifically, I was on the hunt for a course that could provide me with solid knowledge and practical advice, covering a broad range of topics in a short amount of time. The Fast Track caught my eye because it promised exactly that.
Eleanor Tweddell led the course, setting the tone from the get-go with her authentic and inclusive coaching style; creating a space that felt open, honest and genuinely supportive. At the beginning of each session, we were encouraged to shut everything down (yep, even Outlook!) and do some real inward focus. As Comms professionals, we know that kind of dedicated time for self-reflection doesn’t materialise often. I looked forward to those weekly calls, knowing I’d leave each one feeling more confident, inspired and reconnected with my purpose.
A year on, I still find myself revisiting the resources and learnings captured in my trusty OneNote. I’d recommend the course to anyone who’s new to Internal Comms, or to those simply looking for a fresh perspective – it’s a safe space to reflect, ask questions, share ideas and build supportive networks. Since completing the programme, I’ve noticed a genuine shift in how I approach my role as an IC Manager in a complex organisation. I’m more confident in challenging assumptions and asking the right questions to determine the ‘why’ behind the work, because after all, if it doesn’t solve a problem, why are we doing it?