As part of our #IChoseIC series, Head of Internal Communication, Amy Thomson shares why she believes she has chosen the right profession.
After graduating from university with a Masters in English Literature, I had no real idea of what I wanted to do. Like many Internal Communications professionals, I stumbled into the world of internal comms after redundancies meant I was applying for roles I’d never have considered before. But I can genuinely say I’ve found the profession I want to spend my career in.
I’ve always considered myself an introvert and I worried that I wouldn’t be able to do a role which relies so heavily on relationship-building. Taking on this role has really helped me grow. In my previous role, I would often present at our all-hands meeting to our team of just over 100 (something I’d never dreamed of being able to do), greet all new starters in their first few weeks at The Charity and help shape staff networks including acting as a co-chair for our EDI board.
From organising speakers for our weekly meetings to planning internal events to celebrate Pride, sparking conversations on Viva Engage to creating channels for two-way conversation, there’s nothing about this job which I don’t enjoy. I get to shout about the successes of the organisation and support the team in building relationships across the organisation.
The landscape of internal communications is constantly changing, so network with professionals in the field and attend events run by organisations like the Institute of Internal Comms to stay ahead of the curve. The brilliant thing about this area is that it’s about finding your own style and fitting the culture of the organisation.
Choosing internal communications has been one of the most fulfilling decisions of my professional life. No day is the same and it’s equal parts challenging and inspiring getting to see the real impact you’re making.