Growth in Unlikely Places: Why Coffee Conversations Still Matter

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This might seem like a strange question given the current climate, but have you ever stopped to consider whatrenewal— orreinvigorating— your career and leadership journey looks like?

Speaking with a couple of my Comms colleagues today, I know for many, it’s less about renewal and more about survival. Survival in the form of securing a role or staying in one — even if it’s at a lower level than before.

But here’s a question to sit with:
How often has an opportunity come about because of your actions — rather than simply waiting for one to appear?

I can think of several in my own 26-year career. Each was sparked by action. And often, over something as simple as a coffee.

In fact, I had one of those coffees today with Jeremy Hill from Beyond Recruitment. It was heartening to hear that the job market is beginning to show small but steady signs of renewal — especially in Engagement and Comms. Organisations are slowly starting to invest again in people who can help them cut through and truly connect.

And that’s the thing about growth — it happens even in uncertainty.
Sometimes especially in uncertainty.
And often in the most unexpected of places.

I know the last thing you might feel like doing right now is networking. But I’d encourage you to meet someone for a coffee. You never know what might spark — and it’s also a powerful act ofsocial resilience. Something we all need a little more of right now.

Because I deeply believe this:
Who you are unlocks your extraordinary, every day.
And your extraordinary doesn’t have to be grandiose. It lives in the quieter moments — moments of courage, determination, kindness, and doing a good job even when no one is watching.

Connecting what you value and believe to how you lead creates those quiet moments of courage.
Extraordinary careers and leadership don't come from titles or status. They come from meaning.

Who you are shapes how you lead.

Tapdah leibh,