I suddenly realise how little I stop and reflect, and really think about everything our business has achieved in its five years. The fact that this is the first time we have properly celebrated a birthday is absolute evidence of this!

I’ve been so focused on moving forward that I don’t think I have ever given myself permission to pause, to take stock of all the wins and the mistakes and the learnings. I’ve learnt this week it is so worth it! To look back and see how far we have come is an instant energy boost and inspiration to continue to look to the future.

One thing I have never lost sight of is what keeps me going, even when things don’t go as planned. For me, it’s simple, I truly see and believe in the value of communication – sharing stories, helping people understand, be better informed, helping people communicate with each other, with their teams and with their stakeholders – to help people do this, is a gift and I am so grateful that I get to do it every day.

I have built this company on my personal approach to communication – calm and considered – we don’t rush in and sprinkle fairy dust. Our approach is focused on understanding our client’s needs, looking at the big picture and then carefully aligning strategy with storytelling to get results.

I am immensely proud to say that over our five years in business, 66% of our work is repeat business. Most of our new clients come to us through referrals, not marketing or advertising, and 80% of our clients have stayed with us for more than 12 months, including one or two who have been with us for several years.

Relationships matter to us, and our focus is always on going the extra mile, offering strategically sound advice that is not necessarily what a client wants to hear, but what they need to hear.

In the last 12 months, we have expanded our services in response to client needs. We have built our capability in digital engagement and social media, and this area of the business continues to grow and expand. Late last year I launched my Calm communicationâ„¢ program, a coaching service for executives and teams in effective communication skills, and since its launch I have coached over 15 clients through the 4-week program, watching them grow into master communicators better able to lead their teams and deliver important communication moments – from presentations to media briefings to speaking opportunities.

What’s next for The LKB Agency?

We always have big plans! For me, momentum is key, and I am excited to keep moving forward, rise to the challenges and above all, keep learning and keep improving.

One area I am really excited about in the future is more opportunities as a team and a business to help others. We recently had an incredible opportunity to start working with St Laurence House – a not for profit organisation that provides long term accommodation to children and young people at risk of homelessness. We are excited to announce that we will be providing our services pro bono to St Laurence House to support their communication activities and fundraising events.

Thank you

Thank you to my team – to Aran, Jen, Vic, Kyra and Elizabeth – thank you for your hard work, commitment to delivering the best for our clients and for your sense of humour. Every day is a crazy ride, but I wouldn’t want to be on it without you all!

Thank you to our support infrastructure, accountants, lawyers, tech support and business mentors – you play such an important role in our survival, and it makes all the difference to know you have our backs.

Thank you to all our clients. We are so lucky to work with you and to get to know your teams and your business. Thank you for supporting our small business.