3 Important Takeaways From Industry Professionals at Communications Connection

Camille Duber

PRSSA Kent’s annual event, Communications Connection, provided  students the opportunity to network with industry professionals and obtain complementary headshots as well as resume reviews. Eager students filled Rockwell Hall’s atrium, excited to speak with over 20 professionals in the advertising, public relations and communications fields. Landing an internship or full-time job can be a difficult task, but the professionals at the event gave some great advice to students on how to stand out and make a lasting impression. Here are some key takeaways from the event:


1. Advocate for Yourself

Applying for jobs and internships can be a very daunting task. You may feel overwhelmed by the process and may just take any job that gives you an offer. 

However, the professionals reminded students not to take a job to take a job. Christian Grant, digital marketing manager at Full Spectrum Marketing, said it is important to know that even though you are starting an entry-level position, you still have and bring value. 

“Speak up, call those things out and advocate for yourself,” Grant said. 

By advocating for yourself, you are demonstrating your willingness to work, and Grant said that is what hiring managers are looking for. 


2. Be Authentic
    
    With the amount of interviews hiring managers conduct, setting yourself apart from others in an authentic way can make all the difference. 

Kristyn Pearson, senior coordinator of DEI & social impact for the Cleveland Cavaliers, said that sending a thank you note after an interview and including something memorable shows interest not only in the job, but the company and interviewer as well. 

Kate Dilyard, marketing and author relations associate at Spotify, said asking questions helps to build your credibility. Pearson mentioned in interviews that asking a fun question can help keep the interview conversational and interesting. For example, Pearson asked, ‘What is your favorite part about Cleveland?’

3. You Don’t Need to Say Yes to Everything

    No matter what job or internship you are in, professionals emphasized the importance of not feeling the need to say ‘yes’ to everything within the job. Izzy Stewart, integrated development marketing and communications for the City of Cleveland, and Kendra Davis, director of integrated marketing at the Cleveland Foundation, talked about creating and setting boundaries. 

Both Stewart and Davis reminded students that you can still say ‘no’ and be driven in your work; you just need to be intentional when creating your boundaries. 

Networking is an essential part of building long-lasting relationships. The event allowed for new connections to be made, and meaningful conversations were had. Perhaps some of these connections will potentially lead to individuals landing their desired internship or exciting entry-level position.