5 Minutes With… Caron Chan
Caron shares more about her role as a Communications Manager with Accela Communications, where she is responsible for enhancing the reputation and awareness of her clients’ brands through content, and by working closely with our media and influencer contacts.
Did you always know you wanted to be a communications professional?
Yup! While growing up, I was quite inspired by a TV show called Crime Watch, and I thought being in front of the camera, dressed in uniform, and talking about crime looked pretty badass.
What’s the most inspiring part of your job?
I think creating conversations that lead to meaningful outcomes is pretty interesting. That moment when you reveal something unique on behalf of your clients, and you capture the look on everyone’s faces when they go, “oh wow, this is so cool….”. It’s priceless!
What would you say truly differentiates Accela from the many competitive choices that exist today?
Our clients say it best! We’re small and nimble, and we truly think they are amazing and care about them. We’re always looking for ways we can support our clients in out-of-the-box ways, particularly during what has been a tumultuous time for many of them.
What do you think the future of the comms industry will look like?
Technology has shaped the way we consume media and that format will keep shifting as it develops. Growing up in the 80’s, I was always reading books at the library, catching the Simpsons on TV, and listening to cassette tapes… now I’m glued to my smartphone. I can do all that and more from my phone. We’re seeing all the creative ways brands are leveraging all things digital and competing with one another to think more and more out of the box.
What was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
Being a full-time human to my cat – does that count? I grew up with dogs, and this little creature was the first to not wag its tail at me. It hissed. And I took it upon myself (as a challenge) to make it fall in love with me. We’re cool now but I remain at its beck and call.
What has been your biggest achievement at work so far?
I attribute every win, big or small, to my team and my clients. When you build trust within the team, we go miles together.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?
Being outdoors and staying active! I enjoy running with my group of friends, and I created a hashtag on social media with our initials #SGRFJRC (Sean, Gilbert, Ravi, Faris, Jade, Roy, Caron) where I tag posts of us running together. I like to recreate simple dishes at home, like salads, pastas and soups, and may venture into making kombucha soon. If any of these speak to you, please connect with me on Instagram @kuhrone.
If you could invite anyone (dead or alive) to dinner, who would it be?
My late mom. A family reunion dinner would be perfect.
What’s on your bucket list of food and drink to try and places to visit?
I think dining at Noma, by Chef René Redzepi, in Denmark, would be a cool experience.
