The Association Blog

In 2024, I was hiring a Digital Communications Manager and had several strong candidates, but one stood out for an unexpected reason. She had been creating content for a stamp auction house—hardly the typical background for animal welfare—but when I reviewed her work, I found myself genuinely interested in stamps, something I’d never expected.

That immediately told me she had an exceptional ability to tell compelling stories and engage an audience. I trusted that instinct, hired her, and it proved to be one of the best hiring decisions I’ve made. During her time at HSPPR, she created outstanding content that earned national recognition, helped countless animals find homes, and brought our brand voice to life. Although she later relocated and left the organization, her impact was significant.

That experience reinforced an important leadership lesson: great hiring isn’t about finding the person with the most obvious resume—it’s about recognizing talent, creativity, and potential. Watching someone exceed expectations because they were given that opportunity is one of the most rewarding parts of leadership.

– Colette Bradley, Director of Marketing & Communications,  Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region