Reflections on an empowering summer with The Juniper Co.
As the summer draws to a close, I’ve been reflecting on my first few months with The Juniper Co., where I’ve experienced immense growth both personally and professionally. Since joining in June, I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside some truly inspiring individuals who have redefined the way I see collaboration, planning, and accuracy. These are not new concepts to me, but at Juniper, they’ve been elevated to new heights, and I’m excited to share some of the key lessons I’ve learned.
1. The power of true collaboration
I’ve always understood the importance of teamwork, but working with The Juniper Co. has shown me what true collaboration looks really like. Here, we don’t just work together – we play to each other’s strengths, constantly sense-checking ideas and thoughts to ensure the best possible outcomes. Nothing is done in isolation, and that collective approach is something I’ve come to deeply appreciate.
A standout experience was when our team facilitated an event for a major property membership organisation, helping them develop their company’s values and behaviours. This event was not just about delivering a workshop – it was a masterclass in collaboration! We worked together to design the event, brought teams together, created and facilitated the use of tech-based surveys that made the day run smoothly for over 100 people. The positive energy in the room was palpable, and learning from our lead facilitator, Nicki, was invaluable. It was a day where I saw firsthand how collaboration can lead to extraordinary results. We didn’t just facilitate a session; we helped shape the future of an organisation, and we did it together. It was an extremely rewarding moment for us all!
2. The importance of planning ahead
Another crucial lesson I’ve learned is the impact of planning ahead. While I’ve always understood the value of preparation, my time at Juniper has solidified just how vital it is to our success. In a fast-paced environment, where we juggle multiple projects and client priorities, planning ahead isn’t just about being organised – it’s about setting the stage for success. When we plan effectively, we not only improve our own work, but we also positively influence the work of our colleagues.
Planning ensures that everyone is on the same page, deadlines are met, and there’s room to adapt if things don’t go as expected. It’s about being proactive rather than reactive, and this mindset has been instrumental in driving our projects forward. I’ve learned that when we take the time to plan thoroughly, we create a solid foundation that allows us to deliver our best work, every time.
3. The precision of accuracy
Accuracy is another value that has been deeply ingrained in me over these past few months. At Juniper, accuracy isn’t just about getting the details right – it’s about embodying a commitment to excellence in everything we do. Whether it’s in how we write, explain, or communicate, accuracy is key to building trust and ensuring clarity. But it doesn’t stop there. Accuracy extends to how we behave, how we give feedback, and how we ask for it. It’s about being precise and thoughtful in our interactions, ensuring that our words and actions align with our intentions.
This focus on accuracy has made me more mindful of the impact of my communication and behaviour, both within our team and with our clients. It’s a reminder that excellence is achieved not just through grand gestures but through the careful attention to detail in every aspect of our work.
Key moments
In just a few months, I’ve already had the chance to work in some truly remarkable places. Coordinating workshops at The Tower of London and Hillsborough Castle in Belfast were definite highlights. There’s something incredible about standing in the Tower, surrounded by walls that have witnessed nearly a thousand years of history, and realising just how deeply woven the past is into the fabric of everyday life here in the UK. And then Hillsborough, with its stunning Georgian design and beautiful gardens - it's the kind of place that makes you stop and really appreciate the blend of history and beauty that’s so unique to British heritage. These experiences reminded me how lucky I am to live and work in such culturally rich settings, and it’s even better knowing that these moments have also helped me to forge strong relationships with new clients.
Looking ahead with gratitude
As I look back on these first few months, I am filled with gratitude. I feel empowered to continue developing, growing, and becoming the best I can be, thanks to the incredible team at The Juniper Co. I’m excited to keep building relationships with my colleagues and clients, and I’m looking forward to the opportunities that lie ahead.