About music, communication, and the special twist
Fairouz, Plant Communication Specialist in Jemmal, Tunisia, has been working at DRÄXLMAIER since 2020
At DRÄXLMAIER I started as a plant management assistant for 2 years and then took over as plant communicator. Communication is a very diverse role within an organization. It covers many areas like internal communication, external communication, media, website, social media, events, and much more. As a communication specialist I make sure that people in the company and outside know who we are, what we do, and what our mission is. The key aspect of my role is to create a highly positive perception of the company. In short, I play the role of a brand ambassador par excellence.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Indeed good communication professionals I have come across are very interested in people. They like getting to know people and listening to them. In my turn, I do really enjoy having conversations with colleagues and employees and I’m very interested in what they say. It’s the active listening role that I enjoy most in my function.
There is a perception that it is all about putting a marketing spin on it but a huge part is actually listening to what people are saying and then using that to craft the messages for our communication. I get inspired by listening to different voices, perceptions, and interpretations. Human mechanisms look very much the same but indeed our brains and voices are very diverse and unique.
Do you have any hobbies, passions, and talents you would like to tell us about?
I love playing my favorite instrument, which is the Arabian harp. Since my childhood I have always loved listening to music and I really felt the need to play music. I cannot express my feelings in a better way. But I didn’t have the chance to play the harp because it was too expensive. As soon as I started to work at DRÄXLMAIER, I could afford it.
I also sing and love reading poetry. I love this quote: “Music is what feelings sound like.” It describes so precisely that music has always been such a crucial part of my life. It has always been like an answer for me and the outlet of the feelings that I cannot express properly in any other way. Singing, playing on my harp, and reading have always been my tools for self-healing. It is like free therapy for me.
Since my childhood I’ve also written about my thoughts and feelings. I translate songs into English, Arabic and French and I create my own songs. Every weekend I attend a musical club. I spend my Saturdays playing the harp and Sundays singing. On weekends, I have a tutor who helps me improve my talent. DRÄXLMAIER allows me to have good work-life-balance and gives me the opportunity to explore my talent. I am overjoyed that I was able to buy my own harp recently.
How does music support you in your career?
Music and communication are very closely linked to each other and require the same skills: improving concentration, anticipation, body language, eye contact, phonological awareness, sequencing, listening, self-awareness, among many others. And maybe this helped me switch my position from a plant assistant to a communication specialist. My skills really match my position. I’m constantly looking for new qualities and tasks that I can accomplish.
Which of your qualities are you particularly proud of?
I’m the kind of person who appreciates everything in life. And I add value and character to everything around me. It could be a clothing style, a lunch table, home décor, or an event. I try to make it very distinguished and unique. I don’t know exactly what to call it, but I’ve noticed that every time I receive feedback, I hear something like: “Fairouz, you have made this event or this visit very special.” And since I work for a premium automotive supplier, I feel very comfortable in my own skin. The DRÄXLMAIER claim WE CREATE CHARACTER is also my motto in life.
People tell me I have a very friendly personality. I have a habit of making sure that every newcomer at the company feels at home. I feel responsible and committed to making their integration period the best experience. I’m that go to person for anyone who has something to share, uncertainties or blockages. I’m there to look for solutions. And I work tirelessly to make everyone feel that we are more than a company. We are a family. And I’m really proud of the fact that my personal character and the company values go hand in hand. It’s just a perfect fit! :)