As technology becomes more sophisticated, the need to understand becomes more important and more difficult.
Lisa Miller
is charged with translating biotechnology advances to the rest of us.
I work in a biotechnology company called Aker BioMarine, where I am surrounded by brilliant people. Many of my colleagues hold PhDs and speak multiple languages, and some of them even spend time in labs studying ingredients or leading science experiments with the aim to improve human health globally. I work with these experts across various departments to help shine a light on who we are, what we do, and why it’s important.
As a communications director, my daily tasks vary day to day, but my main objective is always the same — tell our story in the most positive and impactful way to energize and engage everyone with the work we’re doing.
For example, after my science team publishes a study, it’s my responsibility to dissect that information and write about it in a way that is easy and digestible for all audiences — from the extremely knowledgeable R&D specialists down to the end consumers looking to enhance their health and wellness. Sometimes this is not an easy task. To produce a great piece, I must read manuscripts, look at graphs, and extract key words which then often leads to lots of googling and questions.
There have been times when I wish I knew more about biomarkers or changes in outcome variables without having to ask rudimentary science questions, but my job is, and always will be, to make this information relevant to everyone.
I have always told my two teenage sons since they were young that you don’t have to be the smartest person in the room, but the most relatable. Relatability fosters connection, trust, and collaboration, all cornerstones of good relationships. In my case, relatability helps guide teamwork, allowing others to be understood and valued. By encouraging open dialogue, we are building genuine, mutually beneficial working relationships, which often leads to success.
A big part of my role is taking our messages to external audiences where I engage with many different people and areas. At any given moment, I need to pivot my thinking and rationale to ensure that I am giving people the information that they need and want. If I truly want someone to feel inspired about what our company is doing, I need to find unique ways to connect the dots to their world and interests. The same mantra can be applied to personal scenarios. Surrounding yourself with people who want to understand you is an essential piece for fostering meaningful relationships, creating harmony, and building empathy.
There is no question that work teams and friendships need all different types of people, skill levels, and personalities to succeed. Relating to others is essential in how I continue to grow both personally and professionally. Some experts even say that feeling understood is a fundamental human need, contributing to a person’s sense of belonging and emotional health. Aker BioMarine is committed to improving human health, and I feel a sense of contribution to that mission every single day.
In Her Own Words is a daily Bizwomen feature edited and curated by Ellen Sherberg and written by individual contributors. If you would like to contribute to this ongoing narrative, email
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. Sherberg is a longtime reporter, editor and publisher at American City Business Journals, Bizwomen’s parent company.
