Reading Nancy Drew Mystery Books Prepared Me for an IC Career
I first discovered Nancy Drew books in third grade. They checked all the boxes for me: a clever, courageous heroine, strong female friendships, a snappy car (hello, blue Roadster), and mysteries to solve.
For those who haven’t met Ms. Drew (you’re missing out, by the way), she’s a teenage amateur sleuth created by Carolyn Keene. Personally, I loved that Nancy could run rings around the Hardy Boys (another classic detective duo). Her mysteries were complex, requiring an inquisitive, problem-solving mind. I read through them in rapid succession. And yes, I also did a book report that required us to dress as book characters. Boy, did I love pretending to be Nancy with my bobby socks and gingham jumper.
Looking back, I can see how Nancy and her adventures helped me develop skills that have served me well in internal communication:
Putting together bits and pieces (clues) from internal partners when presented with an obscure request. Just like Nancy piecing together evidence, I often gather insights from different departments to create a cohesive message. It’s all about connecting the dots to find the best way forward.
Using systems thinking to problem-solve. Much like Nancy, who considers all angles of a mystery, I analyze the bigger picture to find effective solutions that address multiple facets of communication challenges. This holistic approach helps ensure that our messages resonate across the board.
Keeping my calm when faced with a criminal (ahem, challenging colleague). Nancy's composure in the face of danger inspires me to navigate tricky situations with grace and poise. Staying cool under pressure is crucial in maintaining productive working relationships.
Final Thoughts
In many ways, Nancy Drew taught me the importance of curiosity, critical thinking, and resilience—skills that are invaluable in my career today. So, the next time you dive into a mystery, remember: it might just prepare you for your own adventures ahead!
P.S. Here’s a peek at some of my collection of Nancy Drew books. Childhood may be over, but a good mystery book is evergreen.
