Networking 101: Semester Wrap Up

Reflecting on the semester, I decided to read my notes on all the speakers we had a chance to hear. A few things stood out to me, and I found reoccurring messages throughout presentations.

I would first like to thank my professor Wendy Greenwood, as she was the one reached out and connected with our wonderful speakers to set up these presentations. I really enjoyed them, I learned about jobs in the industry some I didn't even know existed! It was very informative and helpful.

You Will Learn and Grow at Each Job Have

I really enjoy Blair's presentation. She graduated from Western like myself, which was very cool.Blair told us of all the different jobs she had starting at Corner Stone, her job there focusing on digital marketing and data. Then moving to KBS Agency, doing very traditional digital print ad agency. Blair said it took time and learned lots through her other jobs, but eventually she found that she preferred working with numbers and like the strategic side of things. Now she is in a position she loves as Director of Marketing at Valtech. She also said she was able to apply what she learned to each role as she moved forward.

Be Adaptable

Cathy McKnight and Caroline Berryman talked about the different roles and positions you will have as you make your way through any industry. They reminded us that that is ok and normal. That it takes time to find what is right for you.

You need to be adaptable because industries are always changing. You can’t limit yourself to one specific position because you never know what is coming to you in the future.

Networking Can Be Scary, But People Want To Help!

Santo Ligotti reminded us we have the knowledge and support. People want to see us succeed, and it's important to have confidence in yourself. He again shared his journey through the career world. He even informed us his current job he didn't get through networking online, but rather from someone he knew and reached out to.

Use LinkedIn to Your Advantage

One of the best tools for networking is LinkedIn. I am so amazed I didn't use it as much before. Once you understand how to work it, it is a great tool for communicating with people, learning about new job postings, reaching out to potential employers etc. I was able to look up most our speakers, to learn more about where they worked and the career experiences they have had that led them to where there are now.

My Co-op

I spoke to my new boss today about my upcoming internship. I will be working for Progressive Sales, learning under two ladies. My internship will focus on two big projects I will be designing and building websites for the launch of a product and a company. I am very excited to get started. I look forward to have hands on experience and expand my knowledge.