Over the last few months, I've heard a recurring theme amongst my colleagues about tactics organizations and individuals are using to gain 'free' services and advice from experts. As a consultant, something about this conversation has touched a nerve and I feel we need to talk about it openly.

There has never been a better time to be a strategic internal communication professional. I’m amazed at how many leaders and organizations are reaching out for support to align their employees and internal audiences to help deliver their business goals.

When I started my Communication Career, I never realized there would be so many opportunities to use my skills. As Communication Professionals, we have to understand our stakeholders; educate people about programs and processes; ensure diverse viewpoints are heard; and consult with internal and external partners to help them accomplish their goals.

My advice was the same I give to all the colleagues I mentor, "If you want to stand out in the crowd of resumes and applications, you can't be afraid to brag a little and highlight what makes you successful."

So I began this blog series on Navigating your Communication Career in February to help me create more discipline with blogging. It is now April and I am on my fourth part of this series in about two months, so a little slower folks but bear with me.

Today, I’m continuing my series on Navigating your Communication Career. Today’s focus will be on being a Communication Contractor. Here in Canada, I’m noticing this career trend more and more.

A few weeks ago, I talked about a series on Navigating your Communication Career. Today’s focus will be on being an in-house practitioner. It’s no surprise that the majority of communication professionals work in-house for organizations.

After over 20 years leading Internal Communication in corporations, and spending the past three years as a strategic consultant, here’s my biggest ‘AHA’: There are no rules, just learning. The goal is to focus on the experience versus the expectation.

Most internal communication, human resources and leadership programs focus on Ten Steps, Case Studies, How-To, and Technology solutions that talk about the same-old, same-old. I realized a few years ago that my approach to communication was different. I thought of it as the glue that connected disparate areas and integrated them to make ordinary organizations accomplish extraordinary feats. It was a little about doing stuff in your own little box, but more about thinking, risk-taking, listening and collaborating to build inner strength.