This month, PE caught up with the woman creating a BOOM in the electrical industry. Karen Boom tells us why it’s in your interest to join the electrical industry’s social club.
My name is Karen Boom, AKA KaBoom, and I am an electrician. My company is called She’s Electric. I retrained nine years ago and a friend suggested that I called my company ‘KaBoom Electrics’ – I’m glad I didn’t do that though, as I’m not sure it would have created the right impression!
The first few years into my career were really intense. I had to learn on the job and get my head around a lot of new stuff. In this job, no two tasks are ever the same because all installations are completely different. Additionally, dealing with customers is another challenge electricians face. Every client is different and managing his or her expectations is a skill! One of the things that I have found massively beneficial to my business is social media and networking.
Over the last 12 months I’ve finally felt I have enough experience, knowledge and confidence to stick my head above the parapet and let everyone know who I am, as well as sharing experiences and product knowledge. On social media, I now feel like I have a whole new family and an instant connection to a host of relatively instant resources that are absolutely priceless. I have connected with some amazing people and also been told that I am an inspiration. It warms my heart to know that I am making a difference, however small, sometimes to people I have never even met. This is the power of networking and social media. We are a voice, a movement and a community and we all have a part to play in supporting one another and being able to seek support ourselves.
For those wishing to take the plunge into social media I’d recommend that you establish yourself first. Comment, complement and empathise with other installers because we are a community and that is what counts deep down. We are here to encourage and learn from each other, not to act as keyboard warriors! Post ideas and challenge perceptions because this will provoke discussion – the industry is undergoing a massive period of change so initiating dialogue and developing knowledge is key.
Because of the nature of social media and the digital world, I do sometimes feel like I can’t find the ‘off’ switch but this will generally depend on what kind of day I am having. If I really need to get my head down because I am working on an intensive job, then I can switch the phone off. On the other hand, if I am coasting a little I can engage in banter – it is all about balance.
Social media has opened massive doors for me. For example, an extremely influential individual approached me to write a blog for them. Although this was not published, I used the bare bones of the content to apply for the Screwfix Britain’s Top Trade Person Awards and I made it through to the finals! These opportunities and achievements would not have happened without my on-going investment in maintaining an online presence.
Ultimately, I want to be seen as a positive role model for not just the trades and women, but to everyone who wants to come together and form a ’family’ and be supportive and inclusive.
Our community has united and grown so much over the past year and it definitely makes the lonely days a better place.
For more information on Karen Boom please visit: https://sheselectric.org.uk/
