From Discomfort To Ease: Networking and Job Searching

What’s the best way to measure accomplishment after a semester of learning? Some may say it’s by the mark you get on your final exam, or your grade for that semester long group project. It may seem odd, but the personal measurement for success I’ve used throughout this semester is how many times I’ve been in a position that was truly and utterly uncomfortable.

A little drawing of me

A Little About Me

As someone living with diagnosed anxiety especially in social situations, one could imagine how terrifying the idea, let alone the action of networking can be. Drumming up conversations with strangers, posting personal thoughts and lessons online, standing up to give a presentation in front of people you have to see every day. All with the constant thought that you might embarrass yourself. If I told my past self that I would voluntarily be in a class in which actions like these are not only encouraged but necessary, I never would have believed me. Yet here I am 4 months later, where those uncomfortable conversations with strangers have turned into dinners with friends, required postings on social media have become an enjoyable habit, and presentations, well presentations are progressively getting easier.

The good news I would say to my past self is that these leaps were not made alone. One of the amazing aspects of this Digital Marketing Seminar Series was getting to meet and learn from so many interesting people who started in similar positions to me. I've noted a key insight I gained from three speakers.

Blair Roebuck on Data Analytics

• Data and Analytics are not just about numbers, it's about translating data into tangible business insights.

Lia Grimberg on Customer Insights

• Personalization isn't just a bonus, it is a baseline expectation. Getting it right leads to increased repurchase, engagement, and loyalty.

Michael Hatswell on Marketing, Networking, and the Job Search

• Consistency and making good connections is key when looking for work.

To our speakers - for the lessons, the tools, and the great examples of what a good presenter looks like, I thank you.

After all the learning, listening, and note taking it was time for the real test of facing discomfort to begin, it was time for networking. One takeaway from this lecture series is that networking happens everywhere all the time. This to me was quite the intimidating notion, however other than the days I would spend hiding at home, it’s a notion I have found to be true.

Networking Events

There were definitely times where my networking was 100% intentional. Days when I’d wake up early to dress professionally, prepare printed versions of my resume and personal contact card, and mission out to a career fair to meet with recruiters and company reps. Nights being dragged out to charity events by my partner where I'd worry if I was going to be under or over dressed. In both cases, I was able to work up the courage and make some interesting connections, always remembering to exchange LinkedIn contacts before leaving.

Although daunting, I found there were some successful strategies I learned through the course that I kept coming back to when trying to connect and expand my network that made the task a little easier.

• Always bring my printed resume and a business card. Always!

• Use a QR code for LinkedIn on my resume or business card so recruiters can find me easily.

• Dress professionally – dressing good is feeling good!

• Learn about the companies I plan to talk to – this both calmed my nerves and helped me stand out.

• Have some fun! I try to remember I can make jokes and be myself while being professional.

Job Search

Through these experiences I often found myself genuinely connecting with those I engaged with. In a few cases these connections even led to direct recommendations for marketing positions. Bringing us to my next major source of discomfort, the dreaded job hunt. Through my discomfort, I’ve learned there’s more to finding a co-op than painstakingly trying to fit your resume with real experiences tailored to a highly specific job posting. The good news for me, is that I’ve been able to put some very helpful tools to use.

• Signing up for email notifications of job postings on LinkedIn that meet my interests.

• Utilizing GBCareers to its full potential.

• Checking out multiple platforms including Indeed, Workopolis, and CareerBuilder to name a few.

• Reaching out to recruiters on LinkedIn.

Making Connections

Attending planned events for networking is great, not only does it give me the time to hype myself up and overcome some of my anxiety in advance, but it also provides a space for people with the similar goal of connection to meet. However, I found the majority of my networking success in places unplanned and unexpected.

• My classmates have been a massive part of the job search and networking experience. From coffee dates to job recommendations, they have made the entire process easier, especially for someone like me.

• I've tried to make good impressions and stay in touch with professors. It is easy to feel like classes are just classes. But in reality, they are the stepping stones to the job world. How you perform in class reflects how you perform at work.

• Since I am not originally from Canada, utilizing my family network has been difficult. My partner's family has introduced me to many people in the marketing industry, which has allowed me to gather thoughtful insights into how I can find the right job.

It has been 4 months of learning, trying, and overcoming. Even without a letter grade yet, I’ve already marked this class as a success, for I have sought, found, and conquered discomfort.