She's a believer

A strong sense of self dominates this Jamaican communication pro

In this issue we hear from Yvonne Crinam Nicholson, ABC, managing director ("head cook and bottlewasher") of RO Communications (Jamaica) in Kingston, Jamaica.

What historical figure do you most identify with and why?

Mother Teresa. I have this uncontrollable urge to "fix" and help all and sundry- sometimes unbidden. There lives within me a persistent Girl Scout, always wanting to help that little old lady cross the street, even though (sometimes) she is really heading to the shop around the corner and does not need to cross said street at the moment.

Which word or phrase do you think is overused right now?

I think the viota globalized is so overused by communicators. It is the new buzzword, and trust me, it is making our listeners' ears hum with boredom. It's as if we have stopped thinking of using other synonyms that are simpler and from a happier time-such as before global warming. I half expect to see it to advertise a diet drink.

How would you explain your profession to a child?

I tell people positive stories about products, like your toys, your food and other things that you love. I make the manufacturers' and distributors' job easier when they have a good product.

What did you have to learn the hard way?

How to know your audience. I learned this the hard way very early in my PR career from sending out more than 100 invitations and setting up an event in another town. I turned up at the venue only to see two or three curious stragglers in attendance sitting around the room, expectantly eyeing the table laden with refreshments prepared for the many invitees. It turned out that the towns businesses-i.e., my target audience-shut down early (half-day) as a custom. Everyone was at home. I did not check this before planning the event. Talk about egg on your face! Never happened to me again, knock on wood.

What do you sing or hum when you're alone?

"Girls Just Want to Have Fun"!

What talent would you most like to have?

To play the bagpipes. I figure that would stun everyone into silence when I make my grand inaugural appearance on stage. Plus, I think I would look really good in the kilt, never mind my knobby knees.

If you could choose another profession, what would it be?

I would be a runway model. Well, I wouldn't exactly call it "run," what with my ample size and all. It might be stretching the truth a tad bit, too, to say "model." But one can dream, can't one?

What movie character would you like to portray and why?

Effie White (played by Jennifer Hudson) in Dreamgirls. First, I would definitely fit into all her clothes, and second, she overcame her personal hurdles to reach success. I am a believer.

Is there a book that changed your perspective on life?

Become a Better You by Joel Osteen. After reading his book, I began to chart my own path to becoming a better person. As a pastor and motivator, Osteen is the ultimate communicator-you want to hang on to his every word. More important, he galvanizes you into action with his words, whether written or spoken. That is communication at its height. Plus, he is real easy on the eyes, if you know what I'm sayin'.

What's the best reward for a job well done?

To see a change in people or policies.

What is your personal motto?

Never give up on what you believe.

Yvonne Grinam Nicholson:

"There lives within me a persistent Girl Scout, always wanting to help that little old lady cross the street."

what's your personality?

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