"From Stagnation to Success: Reinventing Yourself in Marketing with Networking"

"Your network is your net worth." -- Porter Gale

Networking is a vital element in the marketing industry, and it is said that success is not just about what you know, but also about who you know. As a marketing student, I have sometimes felt uncertain about what the future holds in this vast and dynamic industry. Nevertheless, I have come to understand that building a strong network is crucial for any marketer looking to thrive and progress in the field. Attending events, connecting with colleagues on social media, and joining professional organizations are some of the ways to build relationships with other professionals and industry leaders, which can lead to new opportunities and help stay current with the latest trends and advancements in marketing. The Marketing Seminar series this semester has been instrumental in reinforcing the importance of networking in the marketing industry.

The marketing seminar series I attended had several inspiring speakers, but Emma Lauermeier's talk on networking and practical tips stood out to me. As a fellow graduate of the Digital Media Marketing program at George Brown College, her advice on searching for opportunities instead of just employment resonated with me. It made me realize that networking is more than just exchanging business cards, but also about developing meaningful relationships with professionals. The seminar series not only taught me about current marketing trends, but also the importance of networking for career growth. Inspired by the series, I have become more proactive in expanding my network and seeking out resources to advance my career, such as joining LinkedIn marketing groups to engage in discussions with professionals.

Ashley Walsh's talk on finding your voice in the industry at the marketing seminar series inspired me to reach out to her on LinkedIn for advice. This experience taught me that networking with industry professionals can provide valuable knowledge and support. The seminar series emphasized that networking is about building genuine relationships and finding mentors, allies, and friends in the industry who can guide you, rather than just self-promotion for job opportunities.

The marketing seminar series taught me the importance of networking and how it can lead to career advancement and new opportunities. As a result, I have actively expanded my network by joining LinkedIn marketing groups and participating in industry events and webinars. Through these experiences, I have been able to connect with other professionals, stay up-to-date on market trends and job openings, and learn about the latest marketing strategies. These networking opportunities have also led to valuable relationships and insights into professional opportunities that I may not have discovered otherwise.

In addition to connecting with the speakers on LinkedIn, I have also found alternative ways to stay updated on their latest work and activities. For example, I have been following Elle Marie Dhahani on Instagram, where she posts amazing photos and videos of her work and events. Stephanie Stahl's website has been a valuable resource for learning about content marketing, and I have subscribed to the Content Marketing Institute's newsletter to receive more information and resources to grow my skills.

Along with connecting to speakers on LinkedIn, I joined relevant marketing and digital media groups like Digital Marketing, Content Marketing Institute, and Canada Digital Marketing Professional. Although I haven't been very active in these groups, I have gained a lot of knowledge from reading the resources and insights provided. I am now considering becoming more involved and participating in group discussions. Volunteering in the marketing industry is also something I would like to explore, but due to my program and family commitments, I haven't had the opportunity yet. However, I believe that volunteering can provide valuable learning experiences and expand my professional network while contributing to the community.

I continue to actively search for a co-op or internship opportunity despite my best efforts. I am aware that looking for a job is a competitive process, but I'm dedicated to actively applying for positions on sites like GBC Careers, Indeed, and LinkedIn. So far, I've discovered GBC Careers and LinkedIn to be the most beneficial of these platforms. I have been able to get responses from prospective employers and have even secured a few interviews by routinely checking for new job postings and aggressively applying for openings.

For those looking to expand their network and find job opportunities, I would suggest the following advice:

• Attend industry events and seminars: Attending conferences and events in your industry can provide you with valuable networking opportunities and help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and strategies.
• Utilize LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a valuable tool for networking and job searching. Keep your profile up-to-date and connect with other professionals in your industry on a regular basis.
• Connect with alumni: Reach out to individuals who have graduated from your school or program and are currently working in your field. They may be able to offer advice, job opportunities, or insights into the industry.
• Follow up with connections: After meeting someone at an event or adding them to your LinkedIn network, send them a personalized message to stay in touch and maintain the relationship. This can lead to potential opportunities in the future.

Networking is an essential aspect of professional growth, and investing time and effort in building a robust network can yield significant benefits in your career. Attending industry events and seminars can provide valuable opportunities to expand your network and discover new avenues for achieving your career objectives. Recently, I had the privilege of attending a series of seminars on project management, where I had the chance to learn from some of the top project managers in the field. Through these events, I was able to connect with like-minded professionals, share ideas and experiences, and gain valuable insights that have propelled my career forward. In conclusion, attending industry events and seminars is an excellent way to build relationships and expand your network, leading to numerous opportunities for professional growth and development.