Friday, 14 February 2025
Today is Valentine’s Day, so what better time to talk about oxytocin – the so-called ‘love hormone’ that bonds us together.
But beyond the romance, oxytocin plays a huge role in trust, connection and collaboration.
And, when you think about it, those are the key elements of strategic communications, public relations and business relationships.
This week has been all about stepping out of the office – and my comfort zone – and into spaces filled with creativity, support and inspiration.
From standing in front of the camera to cheering on others as they find their confidence and path, it’s been a week fuelled by connection – both personal and professional.
Finding Confidence in Front of the Camera
This week started with a personal branding photoshoot at the stunning Thicket Priory in York with Roth Read Photography (more to follow on that).
And to Claire, of Cow Mad Designs, my stylist and all-around superstar, who not only helped me look the part but was also my support system throughout.
True friendship in action – hello oxytocin boost.
Mentoring and Encouraging Growth
Next, it was back to mentoring through Huddersfield University’s Huddersfield Health and Innovation Partnership (HHIP) and Kirklees Council’s Thrive.
I had the privilege of seeing new businesses grow in confidence – just like I did in front of the lens.
There’s something so rewarding about watching others thrive, knowing that a little bit of encouragement can go a long way.
The Power of Accountability
Then came our accountability group – this week at Society in Holmfirth. This group is about setting goals, showing up for each other, celebrating the good days, and pushing through the tough ones together.
No money changes hands, just real support and connection with the silent heroes who remind us that success isn’t a solo journey.
Innovation, Creativity and Wellbeing
The week also took me to Leeds Beckett University for a Knowledge Exchange Workshop with Janet Bebb of Social Progress.
A morning connecting West Yorkshire SMEs with university support to help them innovate and grow.
A brilliant insight into how business and education can collaborate to drive positive change.
Then, at the Huddersfield Unlimited Business Forum, we saw first-hand how innovation at Accu in Honley is reshaping the workplace, showing that play, creativity, and team bonding are just as crucial as strategy and planning.
Anyone who knows me knows I can’t sing – and don’t. Just as my week started outside my comfort zone in front of a camera, this was another moment of vulnerability.
But as our silent heroes create a safe space for us to step into confidence, Alison did the same. And guess what? I sang.
Another oxytocin moment? Absolutely.
What Does This Have to Do with PR?
Everything. PR is about relationships, trust and human connection.
Whether it’s through a perfect partner, a well-told story, a personal brand photoshoot, a mentoring session, an accountability group or a networking event, it’s all about bringing people together who connect.
On Valentine’s Day, oxytocin may get all the credit for romantic love, but let’s not forget its role in every connection we make at school, in business, in friendship and in life.
So, whether it’s a romantic love, a business love or a lifelong passion, Happy Valentine’s Day to all the connections we make.