Tell us about your role at VC Innovations – what do you actually do, and what’s the best part of it?
I speak to the industry, understand their pain points, create an agenda based on this and then confirm the best people to speak on those topics! That’s the main (and best) part of the role, except for the actual live event. I LOVE the buzz of events and find it so rewarding to physically interact with something I’ve worked on for months – as well as watch others enjoy it.
What’s one unexpected skill (or completely random talent) you have that helps you at work?
Being genuinely interested in most things and delighted to chat to anyone.
Explain ‘What VC Innovations does?’ – in 15 words or less.
Understands specific industry needs. Builds communities around this. Provides information and connections to support them.
If you could swap jobs with anyone in the company for a day, who would it be and why?
Victor, our CEO. I’d love the insight into what it takes to run a successful business. He has also built such strong connections within the industry – I’d find it fascinating to be in his shoes and have the conversations he has.
Would you describe yourself as an AI expert, dabbler, or Sceptic?
Somewhere between a dabbler and sceptic… I do use it and definitely see it playing a huge part in the future of work, but hate the environmental impact and am wary of all the data that AI companies are amassing so try to limit my usage.
AI + Me: How do you use AI in your role?
I use it as if it were my junior assistant or researcher. It has made it far easier and quicker to gain an understanding of new concepts and write copy, but I check and edit everything quite thoroughly as I’ve had some very incorrect responses and think a human touch is still needed.
Biggest win, biggest lesson, or funniest career fail – what’s something that’s shaped how you work today?
- Don’t be afraid to try new things. I didn’t start out intending to work in retail, telesales, marketing, or production. I was just open to new opportunities and went for positions based on my strengths, the needs of the businesses I was working for – and sometimes my need to find a job fast! I am so grateful for the skills and experiences I’ve gained in every single job I’ve had, and it’s definitely kept things interesting!
- Communicate. Be honest with your boss and listen to their advice. I used to try and solve issues BEFORE talking to my line manager know as I didn’t want to ‘bother’ them with things. Sometimes it would work, but often I had spent hours trying to ‘solve’ something that turned out not to be a priority, or my manager could’ve provided a quick fix. You’re line manager is there to support you – you’re both a team trying to work towards the same goal, and open communication is the only way to achieve that.