From the corporate world to a purpose-led digital business: what did I learn?

After living on the lovely little island of Malta for eight years, the heart strings were tugging and home was calling, so, along with my husband and two daughters, I decided to make the move back to Scotland.

If you have moved away from home and spent many years building a career in a different country, the thought of returning home can be quite daunting. For me, landing a role that I would be excited about was high up on my list of priorities, as I’m strongly driven towards doing something that I have passion and energy for.

I had a very serendipitous introduction to the CEO of Know You More (KYM), Tim Mart, and was intrigued to hear more, but couldn’t imagine me, a recovering technophobe, working for a digital company! With curiosity and interest, I bombarded him with questions, realising that the company’s refreshing outlook, culture and amazing social mission to reinvest their profits into the development of young adults both inspired and excited me.

I never thought in a million years that I would work in the digital world. The COVID pandemic turned that perception on its head as I, like the majority of the world, was forced to get ‘tech savvy’, opening up a world of opportunities and realising that coaching can be just as effective digitally.

Whilst working in Malta as an Executive Coach for KPMG, I was lucky enough to have clients all over the world during the pandemic, and being able to support people, no matter where they were, was an enriching experience. I wanted this to continue.

I knew I wanted the benefits of working remotely without diluting the human connection, so when Tim said “technology is our engine but not the final product”, I had to know more.

If I had to think about what I have learned since joining Know You More as their Customer Relationship Manager, the three key things would be:

• Working for an organisation that has giving back at its heart and always starts with the thought of how we can help is both motivating and inspiring. Technology is a precious ally in this process, as it allows us to broaden our reach.
  
• If I look at technology as the engine, it doesn’t seem so cold. It can in fact complement and enhance the human experience.
  
• Company culture and a positive team environment have been key to supporting me through this huge transition. I feel supported, included and connected even in a remote world.
  
  

Tim and I talked in depth about Know Your More’s core principles, and everything points to ensuring that people and human connection are at the forefront of what we do. I’m so proud and excited to say those words – what we do. My message here is not to discount a digital solution, as it may just be the engine you need to support your people.