Open to new experiences: trusting her instincts and keeping an open mind are essential for this South African communicator.

In this issue we hear from Sophia Dower, senior content manager at Words'worth Publishing in Johannesburg, South Africa.

What historical figure do you most identify with and why?

Winston Churchill. Besides possessing many other talents, he said things that needed to be said. He put honesty before diplomacy, and I think that's the quickest way to sort the "men from the boys" in most situations.

Which word or phrase do you think is overused right now?

"Playing in this space." This seems to be what technology marketers say when they're trying to persuade you that they are doing something new and different [with their product or service], when in fact they've been doing it all along but no one's noticed.

How would you explain your profession to a child?

You know when you taste a new ice cream or dessert for the very first time and it tastes so good that you can't think of any word to describe it? I can help you find that word.

What did you have to learn the hard way?

Most things! To be honest, I think that people usually do know what they should be doing, but it's learning the hard way that makes them remember it. My most important lesson (and one I keep learning over and over) is to trust your instincts. If something inside tells you to proof that report again, or to triple-check a certain fact or figure, then DO IT! No one likes to admit they hear "voices" inside their head, but mine have saved my butt on many occasions. The few times I have ignored them have cost me either money, time or a client.

What do you sing or hum when you're alone?

ABBA. Doesn't everyone? And sometimes cell phone tunes.

What talent would you most like to have?

I'd like to have a photographic memory. I'd also love to be multilingual. Being able to talk comfortably in almost any language could completely change a person's world.

If you could choose another profession, what would it be?

I wouldn't want to. But if pushed, I'd say investigative journalism, perhaps, or photography or film (strictly behind the camera).

What movie character would you like to portray and why?

Any action hero who gets to do her own stunts--but only because of the adrenaline rush. Alternatively, I'd like to play the kind of character that has you rolling off your seat in laughter or sobbing into a box of tissues. Both are very powerful. There are some incredible stories of personal triumph or pain that have the power to make audiences stop and think about who and what they are, such as Charlize Theron's performance in Monster. I have huge respect for that ability.

Is there a book that changed your perspective on life?

Freakonomics, by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner, because it questions things like causal relationships that most of us take for granted. It is essentially a book about numbers that has changed the way I see people. I think everyone should read it.

What's the best reward for a job well done?

Getting credit for it.

What is your personal motto?

"Don't assume your answer is the right one." There is always another angle, another perspective or another piece of information--often from the least likely source--that could turn your belief or solution on its head. Keep an open mind, and never stop searching.

what's your personality?

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