Strategic Connections: My Path to Professional Growth at George Brown College

I have learned and grown, both personally and professionally, throughout my time as a post-graduate student at George Brown College. The connections I have made throughout the Strategic Relationship Marketing program and the lessons I've learned from industry professionals and alumni will follow me throughout my professional life. The time I have spent in this program, especially this course, has given me the necessary tips and tricks to be successful in my career.

3 Learning Strategy Examples & Tips For Your Business Growth - WeLearn Learning Services

 

What I Learned


Attending the Strategic Relationship Marketing Seminar Series was an impactful experience for me, this course provided industry leaders and alumni who came in to share their insights and industry knowledge. Arsheen Chopra, an Ad Operations Specialist at Cluep, was one speaker who inspired me. She shared with us how networking played a critical role in her career, especially networking on LinkedIn. She reminded us that, even when it feels challenging, making connections and building relationships is key to success.


NETWORKING 101: How to Start Networking as a Young Professional


What really stood out to me in these seminars was how each speaker shared their individual journeys while all emphasized one key piece of advice: networking is essential for growth. Whether the networking is through LinkedIn or meeting over coffee, every speaker encouraged us to put ourselves out there and build meaningful relationships. Andre Smith, the CEO of Flip & Floss, talked about the "fear of success", this made me think about how sometimes I hold myself back. This message about embracing change while overcoming your fears has given me the confidence to step outside of my comfort zone. 

 

Another impactful talk that resonated with me came from Stephanie Joseph-Flatts, a loyalty marketing expert. What I learned from her is that while acquiring new customers is important, keeping existing ones is even more valuable. Her insights about customer relationships and loyalty programs have sparked my interest in CX and CRM as a potential career path. These seminars provided me with the knowledge and necessary tools to navigate the marketing world, as well as taught me the importance of building long lasting relationships, whether it be with customers or industry professionals. 

 

Networking and Resources


One of the most rewarding parts of this semester has been the opportunity to build my professional network. I took the advice the alumni gave me to reach out to industry professionals, I connected with Claudia Guillem from The Roundtable, Kate Loskutova from Lexus National Marketing, and Arsheen Chopra. These connections have given me access to valuable industry insights and have helped broaden my perspective. Outside of the seminars I have been trying to be more active on LinkedIn, I have started following marketing professionals and joining marketing related groups and discussions on LinkedIn. One of the groups I joined, Media & Marketing Professionals Worldwide, includes posts and content shared by industry professionals. Joining and engaging within these groups is an excellent way to stay updated in the marketing world and learn from peers and industry professionals. These online communities have provided me with valuable content to help me learn and grow professionally.


The Importance of LinkedIn for Career Growth - London Computer Systems

 

I have also attended networking events, such as webinars and the George Brown Centre for Business Career Fair, where I made new connections with professionals in the marketing field. I have made sure to stay in touch with my new connections through LinkedIn, I am focused on keeping my relationships with them strong. I have been using LinkedIn and Indeed, as well as the George Brown College career portal for my job search. George Brown's career services have been very helpful, they offer resume help and review, interview tips and workshops. Alumni like Claudia also shared useful advice for job applications and interviews, which has given me more confidence in my job search as well as with my interviews.

 

Although I'm still job searching and I’m still looking for a co-op position, networking has already played a key role. The connections I’ve made have given me valuable advice, boosting my confidence and making my job search more successful.

 

 

Networking Tips and Best Practices


This semester I've learned several key networking tips that I will use throughout my career:

 

Be proactive - Being proactive and networking is crucial; reach out to new people, introduce yourself and ask to connect. Creating new connections and building meaningful relationships is key to success. 

 

Stay in touch and follow up - Stay on top of building those relationships, send out a message and stay in touch, it will go a long way in helping to maintain these relationships.

 

Don’t be afraid of new opportunities - Networking is about learning from others and growing professionally. Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and explore different areas. 


Advice: a piece of advice/some tips – natalialzam

 

Conclusion


The Strategic Relationship Marketing Seminar Series has shown me that networking goes beyond what I previously thought; it is a crucial skill for advancing in your career.  Through the industry professionals and alumni, the connections I've made, and the resources I have used, I have learned how to feel more confident and prepared to move forward in my marketing career. I am excited to see where these relationships take me as I continue to grow my network and pursue my future journey in the marketing world. 


3 Scientifically Proven Behaviors that Lead to Success | Sales Blog | Hoffeld Group

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