What do you do for RNID?

I was an Outreach Information Officer when I joined RNID in 2000, concentrating on developing information events in the West Midlands.  I became Regional Communications Officer in 2002.  My role is to provide information on deafness, equipment, RNID services to deaf, hard of hearing people and hearing people.  I do this by dealing with information enquiries, giving talks and attending exhibitions. I also get involved in some information projects working with other organisations.

Describe a typical working day.

Come to the office, open the post, check emails. Deal with any enquiries that have come in. Log the enquiries on a database. Prepare for talks or exhibitions coming up – this could be preparing slides, putting together information bags and working out how to get there!  If it’s an exhibition, I pack boxes of information leaflets, possibly photocopying factsheets to take. I might go to meetings with other organisations.

What do you enjoy most about working for RNID?

The satisfaction of giving someone information they have been looking for. Going out and meeting/networking with other professionals and the public at various events.

What qualifications or experience help to get a job like yours?

I was an information officer previously at a local deaf organisation, so I had some relevant experience. But before that I worked with deaf people with mental health problems. So you need understanding of deaf issues and lots of enthusiasm to get on with the job. You also need good organisational and networking skills.

Any advice for people if they want a similar job?

You need a lot of enthusiasm and be willing to meet all sorts of people. Experience of information work or marketing would be a big advantage. Voluntary work in this area would be good if you have no experience, this would help to build up your CV and experience.