IABC Tulsa features one of its members in the “Meet a Member” section of the newsletter. This month, we learn more about Natasha Mitchell, senior analyst, internal communications and HR services at ConocoPhillips.
Why do you love your job? I enjoy collaborating with clients on a global platform and the opportunity to showcase what a communicator actually does to those who aren’t familiar with the profession.
How long have you been a member of IABC? Since Sept. 2012.
What is the best IABC meeting/seminar/conference that you have ever attended? Why? “Crisis Communications: When “IT” hits the Fan” with Gerald Braud (Sept. 2012). A lot of the information he was referring to in regards to the media is accurate. Timing is key before and during a crisis. It is especially important, particularly with the addition of social media and public watchdog groups. It’s interesting to view how a company or an individual’s reputation can quickly go sour in a matter of one tweet.
How has IABC played a part in your professional development? I have networked with other communicators locally; however, I would like expand to meeting others on a national and an international scale.
What’s your favorite thing to do outside of work? Travel with my husband, reading, and writing.
What’s your favorite vacation spot? Jamaica, Mexico – any place with a beach.
Who is your favorite musical artist? Brian Culbertson.
What’s your favorite movie? James Bond franchise.
What’s your favorite restaurant? Hard to pinpoint one – love seafood/Louisiana cuisine (New Orleans style).
Complete the following: The future of the field of communications is ever evolving. As with all innovation, the direction we innovate is a combination of what is technically possible and what is socially desirable. Technological developments determine the possibilities, but our needs determine which technology will actually break through and remain a facet of our life.
What advice would you give to new communications professionals? Take advantage of every opportunity possible. Take some time away from the office and attend a conference or participate in a fellowship with other professionals. When collaborating with others, you learn that you aren’t the only one encountering the same problems. What you learn is how to come to a reasonable solution, and in the process, you add another cheerleader to your personal circle of friends.