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Artificial Intelligence isn’t just a new tool — it’s a paradigm shift in how we work, learn, and create together. But despite all the talk about automation and disruption, one truth keeps rising to the surface:

AI doesn’t replace collaboration – it supercharges it.

Here’s why that matters – and what it means for you, no matter where you are in your career.

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1. AI Amplifies What Humans Do Best

AI is spectacular at processing information, spotting patterns, and automating repetitive tasks. But human beings are still unmatched in:

• empathy
• judgement
• creativity
• relationship building
• ethical decision‑making

AI doesn’t replace these things — it augments them.

That means the future isn’t about humans vs machines — it’s about humans + machines working together.

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2. Collaboration Is Now a Strategic Skill

In a world with AI:

• Teams aren’t just groups of individuals
• They’re ecosystems of expertise, communication, creativity, and coordination

AI makes outputs faster, but it also raises the bar for how we work together.

Collaborative skills – like listening, aligning on purpose, giving feedback, and navigating conflict – aren’t optional anymore. They’re strategic.

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3. AI Brings Diverse Perspectives Into Play

AI tools can help surface ideas from different fields and data sources – but they can’t interpret their meaning in context without human insight.

The best results happen when:

• AI provides suggestions or patterns
• People apply context, values, and lived experience
• Teams iterate, refine, critique, and improve

That’s true collaboration – not just co‑existing, but co‑creating.

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4. Your Role Isn’t Less Important – It’s Different

Some people fear AI will make their jobs obsolete. The reality? AI will change how you work, not whether you’re needed.

What becomes more valuable:

• Big‑picture thinking
• Complex problem solving
• Cross‑team communication
• Building trust and shared understanding

These are inherently human skills – and ones that AI can’t truly replicate.

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5. Learning, Sharing, Growing Together

The future of work is becoming less about individual expertise in isolation and more about connected expertise.

That means:

• Learning from peers
• Teaching and mentoring
• Sharing insights across teams
• Building cultures where ideas flow freely

AI can scale knowledge – but people make meaning.

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6. What This Means for You

If you’re wondering how to thrive in an AI‑powered world, here’s the simple takeaway:

Focus on collaboration, not competition.

That means:

• Show curiosity about others’ ideas
• Debate respectfully, don’t dominate
• Ask questions instead of assuming answers
• Build bridges, not silos

Because when people work well together, AI becomes a tool for amplification — not distraction.

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7. Final Thought

AI isn’t the end of work as we know it – but it is the beginning of a new chapter.

And in that chapter, success belongs to people who can:

• think with clarity
• communicate with care
• work with others with purpose
• and lead with humanity

The machines help us do more.
But people – connected, collaborative, curious people – help us do better.

In a world that worships metrics – revenue, targets, KPIs – it’s easy to slip into thinking success is measured just by numbers. But what if the true markers of growth lie beyond the bottom line?

That’s exactly what Jon Reed’s story teaches us.

Jon isn’t a corporate case study or a business hero whose success came from cutting costs or chasing market share. His journey is different. It’s rooted in purpose, community, resilience, and impact — and it’s a powerful example of what it means to grow with intention.

Growth That’s More Than Financial

Jon’s work has always been driven by something deeper than profits. Whether he’s building a business, leading a project, or rallying a team, his focus has been on people – helping them feel capable, connected, and able to bring their best selves to what they do.

That emphasis – on human outcomes – isn’t fluffy. It builds trust, loyalty, and long‑term sustainability, all of which fuel growth in ways that aren’t immediately visible on a spreadsheet but show up in retention, reputation, and resilience.

When Purpose Leads, Culture Follows

One of the clearest lessons from Jon’s story is this:

Purpose shapes culture, and culture shapes performance.

Teams don’t stay motivated by goals alone. They stay motivated by why those goals matter – to their colleagues, to the community, to themselves. When people understand why they’re doing something, the how becomes more creative, collaborative, and committed.

Jon’s leadership exemplifies this. He doesn’t lead by barking orders or chasing numbers. He leads by inviting people into a shared mission – one that values contribution, growth, and meaning as much as outcomes.

Resilience Is a Growth Strategy

Another standout part of Jon’s journey is how he navigates challenges.

Purpose‑led growth isn’t a straight line.

There are setbacks. There are moments when results don’t add up. But when purpose is at the core, resilience becomes more than grit – it becomes perspective.

Jon’s approach is grounded in patience and adaptability. Instead of measuring success only in short‑term wins, he leans into long‑term learning, asking:

• What did this teach us?
• How does this bring us closer to what matters?
• What can we build from here?

That’s strategic growth – not reactive growth.

Growth With Humanity at the Centre

Jon’s story reminds us that:

• People matter first
• Values endure longer than quarterly results
• Impact outlives income statements

Purpose‑led growth isn’t about ignoring financial outcomes. It’s about anchoring them to something that gives them meaning.

When organisations focus only on revenue, they risk losing the very thing that makes them thrive – the humans inside them. When they focus on purpose, culture, and people, financial growth often follows – more sustainably and with greater impact.

What This Means for You

Whether you’re building your career, leading a team, or launching something new:

• Clarify why you do what you do.
• Let your purpose shape how you measure success.
• Invest in people, not just processes.
• See challenges as learning curves, not failures.

Growth that’s purely transactional might get you to the next number. Growth that’s intentional, human, and purpose‑led gets you somewhere that lasts.

Starting out in your career can feel like a bit of a paradox: you’re expected to show up confidently – but often feel like the least experienced person in the room. Sound familiar?

The truth is, credibility isn’t something you’re given – it’s something you can build. And you don’t need 10 years on your CV to be taken seriously.

Here’s how to start showing up like you mean it:

1. Know what you bring
You might not have years of experience, but you bring fresh thinking, energy, and a unique point of view. Own that. Reflect on your strengths and lead with them.

2. Speak with clarity, not volume
You don’t need to have all the answers – but when you do speak, be clear, thoughtful, and grounded. Listening well is a powerful credibility tool too.

3. Build small habits of trust
Do what you say you’ll do. Be on time. Follow up. These simple actions build a reputation that speaks for itself.

4. Ask good questions
Being curious doesn’t show weakness 0- it shows you’re engaged. Great questions can position you as someone who’s learning fast and thinking deeply.

5. Be consistent
Consistency builds confidence – in yourself and from others. The way you turn up in small moments matters more than big, one-off wins.

Takeaway You don’t have to wait for a title, a promotion or permission to start showing up seriously. Start now – with presence, intention, and a belief in what you bring to the table.

Whether you’re just starting out or stepping into a new stage of your career, one thing’s clear: the world of work is changing – fast.

According to Harvard’s Division of Continuing Education, these 10 skills are quickly becoming essential in today’s workplace. At Co.next, we’ve taken their list and added our own spin on why they matter and how you can begin developing them – right where you are.

1. Resilience Why it matters: Change is constant. Resilience helps you bounce back, not break down.
Try this: Reflect on a recent challenge and what helped you recover. Build habits that support you mentally and emotionally.

2. Emotional Intelligence (EQ) Why it matters: Great communication starts with self-awareness and empathy.
Try this: Practice active listening. Get curious, not reactive. Learn how your emotions affect how you show up.

3. Collaboration Why it matters: Success rarely happens in isolation.
Try this: Don’t just contribute – co-create. Invite input early. Be generous with credit and quick to support.

4. Adaptability Why it matters: The future of work won’t wait.
Try this: Say yes to new challenges that stretch you. Be open to feedback. Let go of “how it’s always been done.”

5. Creativity Why it matters: It’s not just for designers. Creative thinking drives better problem-solving.
Try this: Reframe problems. Take breaks for “unfocused time” – it’s where fresh ideas often emerge.

6. Communication Why it matters: It’s more than clarity – it’s connection.
Try this: Know your audience. Ask yourself: What do they need to hear, and how can I say it clearly, honestly, and with impact?

7. Ethical Judgement Why it matters: Integrity is a leadership skill.
Try this: Don’t just look for what’s allowed – ask what’s right. Be someone others trust when the stakes are high.

8. Tech Savviness Why it matters: It’s the language of modern work.
Try this: Don’t fear new tools – get curious. Start with one platform and learn how to use it well (not just use it).

9. Data Literacy Why it matters: Good decisions need good understanding.
Try this: Learn how to read patterns, ask better questions, and use data to inform (not overwhelm) your thinking.

10. Growth Mindset Why it matters: The best professionals never stop learning.
Try this: Reframe failure as learning. Seek feedback. Keep a record of small wins – it builds momentum.

Final Thought You don’t need to master all 10 at once. Start with one. Build small habits that stretch you a little each week. The future of work belongs to people who stay curious, human, and open to growth – and you’re already on the right path.

We all know that movement is good for us. But in a world full of sit‑down jobs, screen time, and back‑to‑back to‑do lists, it’s easy to forget just how powerful it can be – not just for our bodies, but for our confidence, connection, and community. That’s something Bobby Harrison, founder of Hustle, knows deeply.

Movement Is More Than Physical

Most of us think of exercise as something we do to our bodies – a task on the checklist or a goal to hit. But movement shows up in more impactful ways:

• It boosts mood and energy
• It sharpens focus and reduces stress
• It builds confidence through capability
• It invites us into community and shared experiences

It’s not just about fitness. It’s about how we show up — in our work, our relationships, and how we carry ourselves in life.

Finding Movement in a Modern World

When life is busy, movement often becomes optional rather than essential. We sit for hours at a desk, scroll through screens, and treat movement as a reward rather than a reset. But when we shift our perspective, movement becomes a powerful tool – not just to keep us healthy, but to co‑author the life we want.

Rather than thinking:

“I’ll move when I have time,”
try thinking:
“Movement helps create time – by clearing my mind, lifting my mood, and energising my body.”

What looks like a small walk around the block, a stretch at your desk, or a morning routine can actually be a reset button for how you feel and think.

The Community Effect

Bobby talks about how movement draws people together in real life – not just on screens. When we move with others, we connect:

• through shared effort,
• mutual encouragement,
• and a sense of playful accountability.

Movement becomes something we do with, not just for ourselves.

Movement as Confidence Fuel

Confidence isn’t something you find – it’s something you build. And movement is one of those simple, repeated acts that quietly builds resilience:

• Every step you take is a proof point: “I can do hard things.”
• Every time you show up, even when you don’t feel like it, you strengthen your inner voice.
• Gradually, movement becomes less about performance and more about presence – being fully in your body and life.

Takeaway: Movement Meets Life

So the next time you’re tempted to squeeze movement in at the end of your day, try weaving it in at the start – or in the middle, or as a reset between tasks.

Because movement isn’t just something we do to improve health.
Movement is something that grounds us, connects us, and reminds us that we’re alive – body, mind, and community together.

There’s a lot expected of us right now.

We’re constantly connected, always reachable, and juggling more than ever – whether it’s the pressure to succeed at work, stay switched‑on in our social lives, or show up perfectly online. Phones buzz through dinner. Deadlines spill into weekends. Even downtime sometimes feels like a to‑do list.

The Hidden Cost of Being “Always On”

This pressure to remain productive and present 24/7 comes at a cost. We mistake motion for progress and busyness for value. The result? We stay busy, but we run out of energy. And that’s when even the things we love start to feel like chores.

Being overwhelmed isn’t a badge of honour – it’s a sign we’re running on borrowed time and borrowed energy.

Why “Rest” Isn’t a Luxury – It’s a Necessity

Rest isn’t the opposite of productivity. It’s the fuel that makes productivity possible.

Without enough mental, emotional and physical rest:

• Our creativity shrinks
• Our focus fades
• Our resilience drops
• Stress becomes chronic, not occasional

We need to redefine rest not as doing nothing, but as recovering enough to be our best selves again.

3 Simple Ways to Break the Cycle

You don’t have to overhaul your life overnight. Start with practical shifts:

1. Create Real Boundaries
Put time back into your day:

• Turn off notifications after work
• Schedule “no‑meet time” on your calendar
• Let people know your email hours

Boundaries don’t make you rigid – they make you intentional.

2. Prioritise Micro‑Rest
You don’t need an entire afternoon off. Try:

• A 10‑minute walk without your phone
• A short breathing break between meetings
• Stepping outside for fresh air

Small pauses add up.

3. Honour Your Real Limits
We often push through exhaustion because we think “I should be able to handle this.”
But strength isn’t ignoring your limits – it’s understanding them.

Reframing Productivity for Real Life

We’ve been taught to celebrate busyness like it’s a trophy. But when you’re running on empty, you’re not thriving – you’re surviving.

Real progress comes when you pair your ambition with care:

• Ambition without care leads to burnout.
• Care without ambition can feel aimless.
• But ambition with care is sustainable power.

The Takeaway

Life isn’t a sprint – it’s a series of sprints and rests. And the rest matters just as much as the run.

If you’re feeling “empty,” you’re not alone – and you’re not weak. You’re human. And the first step toward change is noticing it.

Bobby Harrison knows what it means to lose yourself in the pursuit of someone else’s definition of “making it.”

For years, he chased careers that looked successful from the outside — the job titles, the expectations, the appearance of progress. But beneath the surface, the cost was heavy: depression, self-doubt, and a growing distance from the life he actually wanted. It was only when he stepped away from the noise and turned toward small, meaningful side hustles that he began to rebuild on his own terms.

Bobby’s journey is not a highlight reel — it’s a human one. His talk explores how struggle can be a starting point, not an ending. How risk can be a teacher. And how redefining success from the inside out can restore purpose, resilience and direction. Today, Bobby is driven not by recognition, but by meaning — and by the freedom that comes when your life finally feels like your own.

His message is simple: growth isn’t about having it all together. It’s about refusing to stay where you fell.

? If this resonates, don’t just read about it – come be part of the audience shaping what’s next.

Join us at Co.nextalks this January 30th 9am – 12.30pm atThe Playhouse Theatre.

[Event Link]

What first drew you to working in the energy industry? 
After the recession it was important to work in an industry where people would always need the service you provided. Everyone needs to turn the lights on. Its an interesting, fun, community based sector, where competition is fierce but collaboration is still present and no one day is the same. 

What does a typical day at Indigo Swan look like for you?  A difficult question to answer as no day is the same. My day is made up of strategic meetings, client meetings, problem solving, coaching and leadership of the business. This alongside being involved in the business community and key relationships with some of our key accounts and Directors at our supply network.


What skills do you think are most important for someone starting out in energy consultancy? Interest in energy, understanding the big issues the industry faces in the future, from net zero through to the fluctuating market. This alongside an immense willingness to learn. 15 years in and I learn something new in our sector every single day! 


What changes do you think we’ll see in the energy sector in the next 5–10 years? As we go through the journey to Net Zero the changes will be vast. There will be changes to peoples metering, prices will go up and down and the infrastructure we have as a country will change considerably. 

How do you see sustainability shaping your role or career? It is my career. My business and role are so linked to the world of sustainability, you cant ignore it. In fact you have to embrace it and allow you to think openly about innovation and collaboration. The world is changing and as businesses and people we have to lead the change or get left behind. 


What’s the most exciting project you’ve worked on so far?  Outside of the Swans it has to be Co.next. I love it, have so much passion for it and am so proud of the part it plays in the Chambers programmes and how many under 35s we have been able to empower, encourage and engage so far. Inside the nest my Swan Superstar programme where I personally guide, coach and nurture 4 of the Swans outside of the leadership team to be the leaders of tomorrow is something I am extremely proud of. 

If you could give one piece of advice to someone entering the world of work, what would it be?

Be yourself. Personality will get you further than anything else. No one can teach you your personality. Shine bright, ask questions and work hard.

James is Managing Director at Indigo Swan

Connect to James on LinkedIn

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We’re looking for 3 new board members – if you’d like to make a difference, apply here

‘What’s one key trend you’re seeing in your sector right now?’

In the theatre, one key trend we are experiencing at the moment centres around people’s buying habits. As we first emerged from COVID people were only interested in buying tickets for shows with a very short lead time, for fears of cancellation and the uncertainty of returning to a ‘new normal’. In the current landscape many of our customers are now doing the complete opposite, and buying tickets with a much greater lead time, buying tickets for performances as far in advance as 13 months. I think with other cost implications theatregoers are facing, people are enjoying the idea of being able to buy and pay for something in advance of attending, and not then having to worry about it when the time of the performance comes. Plus with schemes such as our Pay in 3, we are always looking to work with these trends with our customers to make the theatregoing and buying experience as seamless and straightforward as we can, ensuring that audiences are still able to enjoy amazing performances.’

‘What advice would you give to the next generation of leaders in your field?’

See challenges as opportunities to push yourself out of your comfort zone. You are stronger and more resilient than you think, and you will always learn something from the experience even if it doesn’t go to plan or the way you expected. We fear the unknown, but when we push ourselves to step beyond our current experiences this will never be a bad thing. This is advice that I think relates to anyone, be you a new leader, or an existing one, but it’s always good advice to come back to.

Lauren is Business Development Manager at Norwich Theatre

Connect to Lauren on LinkedIn

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We’re looking for 3 new board members – if you’d like to make a difference, apply here

Last week, Co.next had the privilege of being the Official Welcome Sponsors at the Norfolk Women’s Marketing Network Awards. It was more than just a title – it was a chance to reflect on what “welcome” really means, and why it matters so deeply in the professional world.

Why Welcome Matters

Networking events, conferences, even team meetings – we know they can be daunting spaces. Walking into a room full of people you don’t yet know can trigger nerves, self-doubt, and even a little imposter syndrome.

That’s why a warm welcome is so powerful. It lowers the barriers, makes people feel seen, and helps us show up more authentically. When we feel welcome, we are more open to listening, sharing, and connecting. And those small shifts change the whole energy of a space.

For young professionals especially, welcome is everything. It’s the difference between feeling like you’re on the edge of the room, or part of the conversation at the heart of it.

The skills of welcome

Creating a culture of welcome doesn’t happen by accident — it’s a practice. It’s built in the everyday interactions we choose to have. Here are a few simple but powerful “skills of welcome”:

• Listening more than talking: Really hearing someone’s story is one of the warmest forms of welcome.
• Body language that says “open”: Smiles, uncrossed arms, leaning in — they send powerful signals of inclusion.
• Generosity in introductions: Offering to connect someone to another person, resource, or opportunity is a welcome that lasts long beyond the event.
• Inclusive language: Swapping out jargon for plain, open words makes spaces feel less exclusive and more human.

Welcome as a practice

“Welcome” isn’t just the role of event hosts or organisers — it’s a shared responsibility. Leaders model it, peers reinforce it, and communities thrive on it. A culture of welcome is built when everyone takes ownership of creating it.

At Co.next, we believe this mindset is essential for growth. When young professionals feel genuinely welcomed, they step into their potential faster, build confidence, and contribute more fully. It’s how future leaders are shaped.

Carrying the spirit of welcome forward

Being Welcome Sponsors gave us the chance to shine a light on something simple yet transformative: every one of us has the power to make a space more welcoming. Whether you’re a first-time attendee, a seasoned leader, or somewhere in between, the aura you bring can change how others experience the room.

So here’s our invitation: at your next networking event, meeting, or coffee catch-up, ask yourself – How can I create more welcome here? It might just be the spark that helps someone else thrive.

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At Co.next, we’ll keep building spaces where welcome isn’t just a greeting – it’s a culture. And we can’t wait to see how our community carries that forward.

At some point in every career, we all need a sounding board. A bit of clarity. A voice of experience that says, “Yes, I’ve been there – and here’s what helped me.” That’s the power of mentorship, and it’s at the heart of everything we do at Co.next.

Whether you’re launching a new idea, building confidence in your role, or simply wondering what’s next, the right mentor can make all the difference.

Why Mentorship Matters More Than Ever

Mentorship is more than advice. It’s connection. It’s having someone in your corner who listens without judgement, who shares their real-world experience—not just their highlight reel—and helps you find your own answers.

In today’s world of fast-paced change, remote work, and ever-evolving careers, mentorship offers what so many young professionals are looking for:

• Human connection in professional spaces
• A boost in confidence and clarity
• Insight into industries, opportunities, and potential blind spots
• Someone to remind you that you’re not alone

And it doesn’t have to be a lifelong commitment or a formal programme to be valuable. Sometimes one good conversation is enough to spark your next big move.

Introducing the Co.next Mentor Directory

We’ve built the Co.next Mentor Directory with accessibility and flexibility in mind. It’s a live list of incredible people from across Norfolk’s business community who are genuinely excited to support the next generation.

You’ll find:

• Short bios that give you a feel for their style, sector, and story
• Direct contact details so you can reach out in your own time
• A mix of experience levels, backgrounds, and industries—from creative startups to corporate strategy

? Explore the full directory here:
? Co.next Mentor Directory – Norfolk Chambers of Commerce

How It Works

Forget rigid frameworks. This is mentoring on your terms. You can:

• Drop someone a message and suggest a coffee or quick video chat
• Use it as a resource when you hit a crossroad or need fresh perspective
• Reach out to more than one mentor—every voice offers something new

The goal? To create a culture where asking for help is a strength, and sharing knowledge is the norm.

What Our Mentors Believe

Every mentor in the directory is here because they believe in the potential of Norfolk’s rising talent. They’ve experienced the highs and lows of career journeys – and they want to pass it forward.

One of our mentors, Chris, puts it like this:

That’s the Co.next approach. Real people. Real talk. No pressure. Just progress.

“So many people hold back because they’re afraid of getting it wrong. But when you create the right space – without judgement – you give people permission to explore, try, and grow.”

A pivot doesn’t always mean a big career change. Sometimes it’s about shifting your mindset. Other times, it’s about exploring a new direction.

This article explores both approaches.

Part 1: Pivot Your Mindset — Finding New Energy Where You Are

A career pivot doesn’t have to mean leaving your job. For those feeling stuck or uninspired, there may be room to grow and refocus within your current role or organisation.

1. Refresh your role
Initiate conversations about the skills you want to develop or areas of the business you’re curious about. Many organisations welcome proactive development, especially when it supports business goals.

2. Take on a micro project
Leading a new campaign, testing a new process, or shadowing a colleague can provide variety and a fresh sense of purpose. Small shifts can bring significant change.

3. Reconnect with your motivations
Reassess what originally drew you to your role and whether your current work still aligns with your values and goals.

4. Learn something new
Webinars, podcasts, articles, or industry events can provide fresh insights that reshape how you approach your current responsibilities.

Part 2: Pivot Your Path — When It’s Time to Explore Something New

If your role no longer fits your skills, values, or goals, it may be time to explore a different direction.

1. Role no longer offers challenge or growth
Lack of learning or stimulation may indicate that a new challenge is needed to maintain engagement and development.

2. Emerging strengths and interests
Side projects or new responsibilities might reveal capabilities that suggest a better fit elsewhere.

3. Aligning work with values
More professionals are seeking careers that support sustainability, inclusion, and flexibility. If current roles don’t reflect personal values, a change may be appropriate.

How to pivot (either way)

Regardless of whether the change is internal or external, the following steps can support a smoother transition:

Audit your skills: Identify your transferable strengths by considering tasks you enjoy and excel in.

Update your narrative: Ensure your CV and LinkedIn clearly reflect how your experience connects to your desired direction.

Test the waters: Volunteering, side projects, or short-term collaborations can help assess fit before making larger changes.

Build your network: Norfolk has a growing network of professionals across sectors. Platforms like Collective, networking events, and professional groups can be valuable resources.

Final thoughts

Exploring a new direction doesn’t mean dissatisfaction or disloyalty – it’s often a sign of ambition and self-awareness. When employers and recruiters support growth – whether internal or external – it contributes to a stronger, more motivated workforce.

A pivot can take many forms: adjusting your mindset, reshaping your current role, or seeking something new. What matters is recognising your needs and taking thoughtful action.

Explore your own pivot
CO.next is a space for young professionals in Norfolk to connect, share experiences, and shape the future of work. Join the network to take your next step.