Arik Hesseldahl on Unshackling Your Career: Lessons from a Journalist-Turned-Comms Leader

Discover the power of asking the right questions and pivoting careers with former journalist turned communications leader, Arik Hesseldahl. In this transformative episode, learn how breaking free from self-imposed career constraints can lead to unexpected opportunities and success.

Guest Bio:

Arik Hesseldahl is a seasoned communications leader with over 20 years of experience as a business and technology writer for major media outlets including Recode, the Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, and Forbes. He has interviewed tech giants like Steve Jobs and Tim Cook, and later transitioned to corporate communications, leading SAP's 32-person global content and multimedia team for seven years.

Content Sample:

- Uncover Arik's innovative approach to problem-solving that led to a groundbreaking hologram presentation at a major tech conference.

- Learn the transformative realization that freed Arik from his self-imposed career limitations.

- Discover the unexpected way Arik landed his first corporate communications job within weeks of leaving journalism.

Key Takeaways:

1. [00:01:43] The importance of getting the story right in both journalism and corporate communications.

2. [00:05:16] Breaking free from self-imposed career constraints can open up new opportunities.

3. [00:11:47] Asking the right questions, even seemingly "dumb" ones, can lead to innovative solutions.

4. [00:17:43] Taking time to learn and adapt in a new role is crucial for long-term success.

5. [00:20:19] Cultivating healthy information consumption habits by avoiding cable news and focusing on quality sources.

Memorable Quotes:

1. "I didn't make a bargain with anybody. I didn't sign a contract with the world that said I had to be a journalist for the rest of my life."

2. "People don't ask the right questions enough... I'm not afraid of asking the impertinent question, the question that's likely to tick somebody off or the seemingly dumb question that a lot of other people might not be willing to ask."

3. "I can talk to almost anybody. Given the right set of circumstances... I can draw interesting nuggets out of them and then I can come back with interesting questions."

Related Content:

1. "The Art of Asking: Ask Better Questions, Get Better Answers" by Terry J. Fadem - A book that complements Arik's insights on the power of asking the right questions.

2. "Pivot: The Only Move That Matters Is Your Next One" by Jenny Blake - Explores career transitions and finding new opportunities, aligning with Arik's journey from journalism to communications.

Suggestions:

Subscribe to the Career Wanderlust Podcast for more inspiring stories of career evolution. Follow Arik Hesseldahl on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahess247/ to stay updated on his insights in communications and technology.

Host and Platform Information:

This insightful session was hosted by Jolie Downs with Paradigm, for more in career evolution and growth, you can connect with Jolie here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joliedowns/

If you enjoy learning from others, please give us a like, subscribe, and share with a friend. If you are looking to add talent to your public relations, marketing, communications, sales, or business development team with the best talent, and quickly, check us out at paradigmstaffing.com.

Ending Note:

What self-imposed limitations might be holding you back in your career? We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences with career transitions in the comments. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we'll explore more fascinating career journeys and insights!