Maxme: We’re big believers in the power of human skills. But don’t just take our word for it - the evidence for excellence powered by human (‘soft’) skills is everywhere! In this engaging, ever-enlightening series, we speak with industry leaders, innovators and game-changers to learn a little about their personal career journeys, and how human-led strategies, philosophies and cultures are proving a force for good in their working worlds …

Welcome Monique, and thanks for stepping into the #SuccessIsHuman Spotlight! 

You’re the Author of the Everyday Autism Series, speaker and advocate.

In 1 sentence (ok, we’ll give you 3), what does your role entail?

Monique Cain: I’m the mother of two beautiful children both diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, which led me to become the author, creator and director of The Everyday Autism Series AKA 3MT Media. I initially wrote our books to give our children and others a voice and help raise more awareness but as our profile grew so did my roles. I’ve also become a respected blogger, speaker and advocate, especially within the autism industry, continuing to share our story and products online and at various events.

M: You’ve juggled multiple roles simultaneously - as a dance teacher for 13-years and clerical assistant for over 23-years, before taking a leap and becoming an author and editor of your very own series of children’s books, The Everyday Autism series.

How does all this work speak to your personal purpose and what drives you as an individual?

MC: I like variety in life and draw from all of my experiences. I’m versatile and capable. I enjoy business, creativity and sharing what I’ve learned to help others. I am determined to do my best at whatever I do in life and helping others is the greatest reward of all!

M: Tell us a little about your personal education pathway/s - what led you to where you are now? How closely do your formal qualifications match your current career?

MC: I completed year 12 at a public secondary college. One of my year 12 subjects was VCE dance, was awarded with the highest score in business management and wrote a few good stories that got A’s in english. At the time my subject choices may have appeared quite random, but looking back, they all made perfect sense. I didn’t attend university because I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do but have always been a hard and dedicated worker. I first began dancing when I was 3, nearly 40 years ago. Have journaled on and off over the years. I started my first job at 14 and have been employed by multiple employers at one time for most of the time since then. My invaluable qualifications have come from years of experience both personally and professionally.

M: If you could share one piece of career advice to your 21 year old self it would be ...

MC: Write. Write down your goals to achieve and believe. You won’t always have to have the answers, but they will come to you over time. The unachievable can be achieved if you believe in yourself and work hard to achieve it.

M: Maximising the potential of individuals, communities and businesses through the power of human skills is the reason Maxme exists. Can you tell us a little about the role and / or value of human skills in your workplace or industry right now?

MC: The majority of businesses within the autism industry were created from personal experiences with a passion to share and produce associated products to help others. People relate to other people that have experienced or are experiencing a similar situation and gain valuable knowledge, inspiration and hope from each other. We all notably share a special bond and I’m extremely proud to be part of such an encouraging and motivating community.

M: Self Awareness sets the critical foundation for all Maxme learning experiences. What’s your strongest trait / personal super power?

MC: Belief. I am determined to do my best and be successful in everything I do in life. I strongly believe that I can do anything I put my mind to.

M: And on the flip side, what’s one human / ‘soft’ skill you’ve had to really work on improving over the course of your career?

MC: Also belief. It's easy to become confused when you're not exactly sure what to do. Sometimes life takes over and becomes too much and you can’t see light at the end of the tunnel. I’m human. I’m passionate and have high expectations which can be a blessing and a curse but I also never give up!

M: If you could share one piece of career advice with recent Uni graduates or candidates keen to pursue a creative passion, what would it be?

MC: Do what you love and it will never be boring, follow your passion and it will always be rewarding.

M: You’ve been granted approval to add one Uni graduate to your business, but have 100 applicants, all with outstanding academic results. How do you find your perfect candidate - what are you looking for?

MC: Personally, I would look for someone that displayed a good work ethic, passion and resilience from life experiences. A unique personality always stands out in a crowd or someone diagnosed on the spectrum would be amazing!

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