This month, we turn the spotlight on Alan Sinclair, Research and Analytics Officer in LGP’s Business Development Team. Alan encourages us to reflect on the skills we already have, from communication to problem-solving, and demonstrates how they can be applied across many roles, both professionally and personally. Through his own experience at LGP, he illustrates that learning, curiosity, and asking questions can unlock new opportunities, helping us grow in ways we might not expect.
In his own words, Alan reflects on his journey at LGP and the lessons he’s learned along the way.
Discover the Value of Your Skills
I’ve been working at LGP for about 18 months now as a Research and Analytics Officer in the Business Development Team. During this time, I’ve learned much about contracts and how to apply my skills in new ways. I’ve found that asking questions, whether to peers or managers, is one of the most effective ways to learn and grow.
Traditionally, we apply for roles where we already meet most of the criteria. But here’s the thing: many skills can be learned on the job, especially with support from your team and leaders. So, let’s challenge that mindset and think more openly.
Learning Through Asking Questions
When starting a new role, gathering as much information as you can will help set you up for success. Your colleagues can offer insights into the company’s culture, systems, and unwritten rules and those little nuances that make a big difference. Don’t hesitate to ask questions; there’s always a golden nugget of information waiting to be discovered.
“Asking doesn’t mean that you’re weak; it means that you are inquisitive and have a thirst for knowledge.”
Setting Yourself Up for Success
Every organisation has its own way of doing things, even if it’s a variation of something you’ve used before. I find it incredibly helpful to take notes, especially during handovers. Sometimes we’re thrown in the deep end and need to learn quickly, but your existing knowledge and experience will often carry you through.
Learning by Doing
Learning new things not only expands your knowledge, but it can also lead you down unexpected and exciting paths. From my own experience, I spent a year learning all aspects of a role and took on additional responsibilities. This not only deepened my skill set but also led to a secondment with a European branch, where I helped manage and improve their processes. It was a truly eye-opening experience, and it all stemmed from the skills I had developed along the way.
The Power of Encouragement
Surprisingly, when you give people a target and they doubt achieving it, a little encouragement like “You can do it! I believe in you!” can make all the difference. Their mind shifts to “ok, let me give it my best shot!” If the target is reached, celebrate what you’ve achieved. If you don’t quite get there, take stock and try again. You never know if you don’t try.
“You may think that this target is unreachable, but I believe in you,” in other words, go for it!
“Beg for forgiveness, not for permission,” is my favourite motto, as I’d rather give something a go than wonder “what if?”
Your Skills Can Open Doors
In summary, your skills, both existing and newly developed, are your most powerful tools that can open doors you never imagined. By staying curious, asking questions, and embracing opportunities to learn, you set yourself up not just to succeed, but to grow in ways that can shape your career and personal journey. Keep exploring, keep engaging, and trust that what you bring to the table truly matters.
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