10 Essential Growth Steps for Young Communications Professionals

In 2010, fresh out of university, I landed my first job as a communications officer. It should have been exciting, but reality hit fast—I had no idea how to apply what I had learned in the real world. I started at rock bottom—if such a level even exists. Everything I had learned in school, apart from the basic flow of communication (sender- message- channel- receiver- feedback- noise), felt irrelevant in the real world. Worse, I didn’t even know how to ask for help.

My job required me to package content—photos, videos, and interviews—for different audiences. The problem? I didn’t know where to start. My degree hadn’t prepared me for the role’s real-world demands, and frustration set in. I had envisioned helping organizations achieve their communication goals, yet I felt lost. Something had to change, so I took matters into my own hands.

 Essential Communications Steps

In communications, as in many other fields, the learning process is dynamic and with endless possibilities. To be relevant in the field, you must constantly sharpen your skills through continuous learning. Here are ten things that I did and continue to do that worked for me. I found it relevant to categorise into three areas:-

Building core communications skills

•  Developing writing and editing skills
• Mastering the art of storytelling
• Public speaking and presentation mastery
• Active listening

Building a strong professional presence

• • Building a strong personal brand
  • Networking
  • Continuous learning and professional development
  • Adapting to industry changes

Keeping up with trends and technology

• • Embracing digital and social media trends
  • Learning data-driven communication

How to build your core communications skills

1. Develop writing and editing skills

I used to struggle with writing, unsure of how to structure my thoughts. So, I turned to books—fiction, autobiographies, and non-fiction—exploring everything from trade to history. Reading exposed me to different writing styles and helped me understand how great communicators simplify complex ideas.

The first book I finished was The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, and that sense of accomplishment pushed me to read more. Over time, writing became easier, and my confidence as a communicator grew. I realized that writing isn’t just about words—it’s about sharpening ideas, refining my voice, and having something valuable to say. But reading alone wasn’t enough. I started writing at work, in my journal, and even in casual notes.

2. Master the art of storytelling

I learned that storytelling is at the heart of effective communication. Whether writing reports, creating social media content, or giving presentations, I realized that people connect with stories more than facts alone. I studied how great communicators like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Paulo Coelho used storytelling to make their messages memorable.

To improve, I started incorporating personal anecdotes into my work. I also practiced simplifying complex ideas into relatable narratives. With time, I noticed that my audience engaged more with my content because they saw themselves in the stories I told.

2. Public speaking and presentation mastery

Public speaking didn’t come naturally to me, but I knew it was a skill I had to develop. I joined Toastmasters, where I practiced speaking in front of an audience and received constructive feedback. I also watched TED Talks and observed how seasoned speakers used body language, voice modulation, and pauses to keep their audience engaged.

One of the most useful lessons I learned was preparation. I started scripting my speeches, practicing in front of a mirror, and even recording myself to identify areas for improvement. Over time, my confidence grew, and I began looking forward to speaking opportunities instead of dreading them.

3. Active listening

I used to think that being a good communicator was all about how well I could speak or write, but I soon realized that listening was just as important. Active listening helped me understand people better, making my responses more thoughtful and effective.

I practiced being fully present in conversations—putting my phone away, making eye contact, and summarizing what I heard before responding. This small shift transformed my interactions, whether in meetings, interviews, or casual discussions. By listening more, I built stronger relationships and became a more impactful communicator.

How to build a strong professional presence

4. Build a strong personal brand

I realized that in communication, skills alone weren’t enough—I needed to stand out. I started by refining my online presence, updating my LinkedIn profile, and sharing insights on topics I cared about. Consistency was key. Whether through writing, speaking, or design, I focused on delivering value. Over time, people began to associate me with my expertise, opening doors to opportunities I hadn’t even pursued.

5. Networking

Growth doesn’t happen in isolation. At first, networking felt intimidating, but I learned it wasn’t about collecting business cards—it was about building genuine relationships. I attended industry events, joined online communities, and connected with professionals whose work inspired me. Instead of just seeking advice, I offered value where I could. Over time, meaningful connections turned into mentorships, collaborations, and unexpected career opportunities. Every meeting, every interaction, and even small 1 percent improvements compounded over time.

6. Continuous learning and professional development

The communication field is always evolving, so I committed to learning beyond formal education. I took internships, online courses, attended webinars, and read industry blogs. Learning didn’t just keep me relevant—it kept me confident. Whether it was mastering new tools or improving my storytelling, every new skill expanded my ability to make an impact.

7. Adapting to industry changes

I used to resist change, but I soon realized that adaptability was a superpower. The shift to digital media, the rise of AI, and evolving audience preferences meant I had to stay flexible. Instead of fearing change, I embraced it—experimenting with new platforms, learning from trends, and staying open to new ways of communicating. The more I adapted, the more I thrived.

Keeping up with trends and technology

8. Embracing Digital and Social Media Trends

The digital landscape is constantly evolving, and as a communication professional, I knew I had to keep up. I started by following industry leaders, experimenting with different platforms, and analyzing what worked. Social media wasn’t just a tool for engagement—it became a space to build credibility, share insights, and connect with a wider audience.

I also learned that trends come and go, but strategy is key. Instead of chasing every new feature, I focused on understanding my audience and delivering content that resonated. Whether through short-form videos, interactive posts, or storytelling threads, I adapted my approach while staying true to my voice.

9. Learning Data-Driven Communication

At first, I relied on intuition to gauge if my communication efforts were effective. But I soon realized that data provided valuable insights I couldn’t ignore. I started tracking engagement metrics, website analytics, and audience behaviors to refine my messaging.

Numbers told a story—what content performed well, what needed improvement, and where my audience was most active. By embracing data, I made more informed decisions, ensuring my work wasn’t just creative but also impactful. Over time, I learned that great communication isn’t just about what you say—it’s also about measuring how well it’s received and making improvements based on real results.

It’s never too late to join the party

The field of communication is ever-changing, with new trends emerging daily. But by taking deliberate steps to grow, you can keep evolving—and you must.

Building a successful career in communication isn’t about mastering one skill—it’s about continuous growth, adaptability, and a willingness to learn. From strengthening core communication skills to embracing digital trends and data-driven strategies, each step brings you closer to becoming a well-rounded professional.

“Success is going from failure to failure without losing enthusiasm.” — Winston Churchill.

By taking on these ten steps, I started to grow and gain confidence in my communication roles. The industry will keep evolving, but the foundation remains the same: clear storytelling, strategic networking, and a commitment to lifelong learning. By staying curious, embracing change, and refining your craft, you won’t just keep up—you’ll stand out. Your growth is a journey, not a destination. Keep learning, keep sharing, and most importantly, keep communicating with impact.