We recently connected with Lindsey Leroy and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Lindsey, thanks for sitting with us today to chat about topics that are relevant to so many. One of those topics is communication skills, because we live in an age where our ability to communicate effectively can be like a superpower. Can you share how you developed your ability to communicate well?
I think the first step in communicating effectively is being a good listener. I believe people at their core just want to be heard, whether it’s talking about their goals, experiences, or opinions. One of my dear friends and former colleagues, who I also deem a major mentor, once told me that the way she learned in the PR industry was by simply sitting outside her boss’s office and listening. It really struck me and I took it upon myself to do the same at every opportunity. I feel like communication is a two way street, not only listening – and, more importantly, hearing what someone is saying – but also having the confidence to understand their perspective and provide your professional feedback and point of view, instead of repeating what you think they want to hear.
I also believe communicating effectively is about practicing empathy – which we could all use a little more of these days!
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
After spending most of my career in public relations, the thing I’ve realized brings me the most joy (and this sounds cliche) is the relationships. Not only are they the backbone of PR, but I’ve been able to meet many interesting, inspiring, and incredible people throughout this career journey. I love nothing more than connecting people I think will benefit from each other in some way whether professionally or personally. Through relationship building, I’ve also had the opportunity to learn about and work with so many nonprofits that are doing incredibly vital work in our community like Dress for Success, SAFE Austin, March of Dimes, Les Dames d’Escoffier, Austin Sunshine Camps, and so many more. Give each of them a follow, donate your time, or spread the word, anything helps!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Initiative; growth; and problem solving. These are key skills to being successful in any industry but I think have helped me the most throughout my career. I also think these skills all tie together. Taking initiative shows dedication and allows you to figure things out for yourself (sometime that means making mistakes and learning from them!). Taking initiative to learn and continually educate yourself on new topics, current events, new technologies, all will benefit you in the long run. I don’t think we ever stop learning in our field, otherwise, what’s the point? Problem solving is another important skill that I think is underestimated. My competitive nature has forced me to challenge myself at times, and think outside the box, not always finding a solution per say, but rather a strategy or direction that may lead to something fruitful.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
Small business owners, anyone thinking about getting into PR, or looking for ways to give back to the community. I’m always one to say yes to a coffee and getting to know you!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/linzleroy/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsey-leroy-32424519/
Image Credits
Jessica Attie
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