Advice for Marketing Students and Recent Graduates to Make the Best of the Worst

Written by: Josh Radostits

 
 

Yup, graduating in 2020 feels pretty underwhelming.

Instead of celebrating over several drinks with friends and family in an actual pub, most of us submitted our final exam in our PJ’s from home. While it might have felt comfy, there was also a feeling that can only be described as emptiness - left behind from a lack of closure on an important milestone in life. 

Personally, I’ve had days of ups and downs. Some days, you feel motivated to get stuff done and to achieve more. But other days, you don’t. 

Through it all, I’ve felt my best when I stop holding myself to expectations from the past. It’s important to adjust your expectations to be more aligned with reality and to forgive yourself if things don’t go according to plan. 

This sort of thinking is emulated by Erika Navarra, who joined us on the first episode of #isolationeducation, to share her actionable advice for marketing grads of 2020 and current students as well. 

Below is the “Spark Notes” version of the livestream conversation for those short on time as well as a list of Erika approved resources to help you further your marketing knowledge and to give you a sense of direction through all this. 

Key Takeaways: 

  1. Marketing Will Never Be The Same

    Crises like the one we face today often leave lasting impressions on the business world. Post-pandemic marketing will likely revolve more heavily on the digital experience than ever before. For students, this means a foundational knowledge of digital marketing is essential in order to remain relevant. Marketers who can combine creativity, technology, and humanity will lead the way. 

  2. All Experience is Good Experience

    1. Now is the time to let go of that dream agency job or entry level position in the corporate office. Those opportunities have dried up but new opportunities have opened up as well, including: 

    Unpaid Internships

    With everyone working remotely, coffee runs won’t be mandatory for interns. Better yet, businesses are in need of an injection of creativity and energy - something interns are known for. Use your “rookie spirit” as an advantage and go to your boss with solutions, not just questions. 

    Volunteer Positions

    So many nonprofits are overrun by this pandemic and are willing to work with anyone who will help. Giving these nonprofits actionable ideas and advice for their marketing initiatives will likely lead to further opportunities for you down the road.  

    Part Time Gig + Part Time Learn

    A strategy I’ll be adhering to this year. There’s no shame in working a part time job that gives you steady income but allows you the time to continue to learn and grow in areas you are passionate about on your own time. 

  3. Come Up With Solutions, Not Just Questions

    The best piece of career advice Erika received that she is passing onto you and me. Wherever you end up this summer, understand that all organizations need solutions. Becoming an expert or specializing in a particular field of need is a great way to make yourself an invaluable asset. Think of areas like ecommerce and social media where businesses will need help in both the short-term and long-term.

  4. Virtual Coffees are the New Networking

    Setting up IRL coffee meetings with marketing professionals was always tough given their busy schedules. But, it’s easier given that everyone is working from home. Just remember to be prepared and come with genuine questions of interest. Ain’t nobody got time for another sales pitch on why you’d be the best intern. 

  5. Be an Authentic and Real Human Being 

    This one speaks volumes for me and is a key distinguishing feature of the marketing industry. Marketing is all about humanity and finding a connection with other human beings. If you’re going to be successful in marketing, you have to be genuine and understanding of other people. Don’t look at industry professionals as anything different than normal human beings with normal interests, aspirations, fears, and everything else that makes us human. 

Erika-approved Resources: 

Books

  • Hey Whipple, Squeeze This by Luke Sullivan

  • Truth. Growth. Repeat by Mike Edmonds

  • Grow by Jim Stengel

  • Shoe Dog by Phil Knight

  • Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg (for all those badass women out there)

Podcasts 

  • 2Bobs

  • HBR IdeaCast

Courses 

Note from Erika: Make sure you truly understand why these are relevant and how they can apply to a business. Don’t just go through the motions to get the certification. It doesn’t mean anything unless oyu can apply it.  

People to Follow

@markpollard – Strategy and how to unlock your mind to create a deeper understanding. Here’s his website.

Isolation EducationUA MAstudents, graduates, covid-19Comment