Q&A: Caroline Benson
Gemma Jones interviews Cuttsy+Cuttsy's Co-Founder and Director
What gets you out of bed in the morning?
The sound of my alarm clock, to get me to bootcamp on Parkers Piece in Central Cambridge for 06:15. I really believe that exercise has both physical and mental benefits and it sets me up for the day. Plus, if I don’t exercise then, it will never happen!
What’s the best thing about working in healthcare comms?
Meeting people and hearing their stories can be a humbling experience. The materials we produce based on these insights mean you can make a difference to people’s lives and this really matters to me.
What’s the worst thing about working in healthcare comms?
There are a lot of people who say ‘We can’t do this’ instead of ‘How do we do this?’ to come up with the best solution.
What buzzwords/office-jargon get on your nerves?
Any TLAs (three letter acronyms); oh, the irony!
What’s your favourite bar or eatery?
Aromi in Cambridge. It does the most amazing arancini balls and coffee.
Which book/film would you recommend above all others and why?
I love business books. ‘Trusted Advisor’ by David Maister is a favourite of mine. I recommend it to anyone working in client service; even though it was written approximately 20 years ago, the principles stand true. A great leadership book is ‘Radical Candor’ by Kim Scott. For a film it has to be Wonder – the story of Auggie, a 10-year-old boy who shows amazing strength and kindness.
Which person, living or dead, do you admire the most and why?
Anybody who gets to where they are through smart working and on merit, not to make up the numbers. I respect anybody with an agency who embraces flexibility to allow employees to thrive. I don’t believe you need to choose between family and career; we just need to allow our people to excel in the career they love and still find real quality time to enjoy with their families.
Who’s your healthcare comms hero/heroine?
Not strictly healthcare comms but my mum. She was a nurse and got me into working as a healthcare assistant to fund my degree and PhD. Her support and insight has helped shaped the person I am today.
What has been your career highlight to date?
I have two: the first has to be starting Cuttsy+Cuttsy back in 2011 with my brother Mathew. The second is winning the Campaign Magazine and IPA Women of Tomorrow Award 2018.