In this edition of Workflow, we have Karen Hollenbach, the Founding Director of Think Bespoke, an education and training consultancy specialising in LinkedIn.
This conversation is brought to you by Think Bespoke, providing LinkedIn training for individuals and organisations in Melbourne and Sydney.
Describe what you do: I own and run an educational consultancy I established in 2010 that delivers LinkedIn training and consulting, career coaching, outplacement services and strategic content marketing consulting for clients across Australia.
How do you like your coffee: In the morning I like a strong latte with one sugar. In the afternoon I like a soy decaf latte. Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it!
Device(s) you use: My husband makes my morning coffee on a Classic Gaggia (this kind act is a marriage maker).
Describe your working style in one sentence: Highly productive when I am in my flow.
What does your workspace look like: I work in a custom built office within our family home. A big window next to me provides natural light, I have a stand up desk and professional backdrop so I can run online consults and training and write from my desk.
I’m kept company by my indoor plants and freshly cut flowers. There’s lavender, a flag lily and camelia in the vase at the moment, all grown by my dear Dad. I always have a jug and glass of water at my desk and a cup of tea on the go.
My three legged cat, Archie, occasionally comes in to check on me, especially if he can find a sunny spot to sleep.
How does your workspace affect your creative process: Immensely. I like quiet and calm when I work. I also like a relatively clear desk and no interruptions. This allows me to stay in my flow and do my best work.
If I am brainstorming an idea, I will often sit away from my desk at one of the two arm chairs in my office, look out the window and think about what I’m trying to achieve.
There’s often a bird in the garden outside my window or the leaves are moving in the wind. I find being so close to nature with my window view helps nurture my creativity.
Do you have a favourite playlist for work: No. I generally work in silence.
Who would you like to nominate for the next workflow interview: I nominate Melinda Clarke, The Melbourne Map.
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