Event Recap:  Insights Shared at the George Washington University Career Week Panel

George Washington University (GWU) recently hosted their Career Week 2014, presented by the F. David Fowler Career Center, an event designed to help GWU students become market-ready for future careers. Programs included employer panel discussions, networking events, and career development workshops.

McKinley’s Director of Business Development, and GWU alumna, Victoria Flood, participated in an employer panel discussion focused on sharing information with both graduate and undergraduate students who are considering careers in marketing. Victoria was joined by fellow panelists who represent unique aspects of marketing from The Ritz Carlton Hotel Co., Ogilvy & Mather, Wunderman, and Ironistic.

Drawing on her seventeen years of experience in marketing, Victoria emphasized to the student attendees that being adaptable to the needs of the industry is a key to sustained success. The best marketers, she said, must be able to craft the right message for the right people at the right time. This flexibility requires practice and a commitment to continued learning and professional development.

Victoria also spoke about the value in working in different industries, which allows entry and mid-level candidates to listen, learn, and adapt. She also shared her insight as a recruiting professional, advising students to educate themselves now on the latest suite of marketing support products like Google Analytics, Salesforce, and Marketo. Since many of the attendees would soon be on the job market, Victoria also shared what she looks for in a candidate during the interview process: professional communication, thoughtful timing in answering questions, active listening, enthusiasm and energy, openness to new challenges, and flexibility.