Delivering the Women’s Luncheon at OCEANS2024 on storytelling

It’s my first OCEANS2024 conference, and I’m excited to head back to Halifax, where I did my masters in oceanography, and where I have lots of great friends and clients. 

The Marine Technology Society (MTS), one of the organisers, runs a women’s luncheon as an opportunity for women to connect and to help give them the tools to succeed. This year, MTS has asked me to deliver the luncheon on using your story to help advance your career. 

It’s a topic I’m passionate about as an ocean storyteller, but equally as importantly, from my professional experience as a business owner. 

For the last ten years, since starting CarolAnne Black Consulting Science Writers, I’ve walked into meetings with potential clients and represented the business. Over time, what we do and how I present our services have evolved, as I’ve learned what is special about our work. I put the quality of our work at the forefront, but I now put that alongside our values and the way we work.

Recently, a mentor encouraged me to work on using my own story to connect with colleagues and clients. It’s not the shortest way to get to the ‘why’ of what I do, but by sharing my story, I’ve learned that stronger and better ties can be made. 

At the luncheon, beyond connecting with some amazing ocean people, I’m hoping to help participants use their own stories to sail towards their career goals.