Adedamola Adeloye: Five Important Skills Communications Professionals Need To Hone In 2024

Adedamola Adeloye is a seasoned Marketing and Communications professional with over four years of experience.

I just had the privilege of attending MAD (Making a Difference) with Comms 2.0, hosted by the incredible minds at The Comms Avenue and Sahara Group.

The theme was “The Power of Now.” Let me spill the tea on the wisdom dropped by two industry heavyweights: Mr. Bethel Obioma of Sahara Group and Mrs. Bridget Oyefeso-Odusami of Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC.

Here are the top 5 takeaways that have me buzzing and ready to conquer 2024 as a Communicationss aficionado:

1) Data-Driven Storytelling:
In the Communications niche, one thing stands true: insight is key. As a Communications professional, leveraging data is not just a choice; it’s a necessity. Numbers hold the power to reveal trends, preferences, and areas for improvement. Utilise analytics to craft a compelling narrative — one that resonates with your audience on a personal level. The era of data-driven storytelling is here, and those who master this art will lead the narrative in 2024.

2) Humanising AI:
The fusion of technology and human touch is a delicate dance, and as Communications professionals, we are the choreographers. Humanising AI is not just a task; it’s a responsibility. Strike the right balance that bridges the gap between innovation and empathy. AI should enhance the human experience, not replace it. In the era of AI dominance, the Communications narrative should be a symphony where technology and humanity harmoniously coexist.

3) The Power of Association:
Networking isn’t just about exchanging business cards; it’s about building a tapestry of meaningful connections. The power of association in Communications lies in collaboration. Approach the table not just with ideas but with a strategic mindset. Your network is a reflection of your net worth. Be deliberate and intentional about the relationships you foster. In 2024, Communications professionals who understand the power of collaboration will forge new paths and elevate the entire industry.

4) Mentorship matters:
Guidance is the compass that steers us through the tumultuous sea of our careers. Mentorship, in its various forms, is the secret sauce that fuels professional growth. Traditional mentors provide wisdom, peer mentors offer relatable experiences, and reverse mentors bring fresh perspectives. In the complex world of Communications, mentorship matters at every level. It’s not just about climbing the career ladder; it’s about reaching back and pulling others up as well.

5) Maximise opportunities:
Opportunities are the currency of success, and the power of now lies in the ability to seize them with both hands. When doors swing open, it’s not just about stepping through; it’s about making an indelible mark. Be intentional, be persuasive, and aim not just for participation but for conversions. In the realm of Communications, exceptional moments define exceptional careers. In 2024, Communications professionals should be architects of opportunity, sculpting success with each decisive move.

Beyond the structured takeaways, there’s a subtle art to success: documenting your wins. It’s not just about self-promotion; it’s about acknowledging achievements and lessons learned. Put yourself out there, but ensure it’s a reflection of productivity. The narrative you build around your wins shapes not only your personal brand but also the broader narrative of the Communications field.

Conclusion: The Power of Now: Let’s Get MAD in 2024!
Even as the curtains gracefully descended on the MAD with Comms 2.0 event, the resonance of “The Power of Now” lingered, urging Communications professionals to stand at the intersection of possibility.

In 2024, we’re not merely at a crossroads; we’re at the launchpad for a journey that is MAD (Making a Difference).

Here, success is etched in data-driven insights, humanised AI, purposeful associations, and the guiding light of mentorship. The Power of Now isn’t just a catchphrase; it’s a rallying cry for action. So, my fellow communicators, let’s not just seize the moment; let’s shape it. Let’s infuse our narratives with purpose, ride the wave of opportunity, and embark on a dynamic and transformative journey.

Together, let’s be MAD in 2024, making a difference in every story we tell, every connection we forge, and every opportunity we grasp.