I recently spoke with Kara Michelle Newman, Vice President and Director of Creative Solutions for Katz Media Group, about her company's internship program.
Ms. Newman identifies outstanding juniors or seniors for a coveted spot in the Media Associates Program. Those selected work directly with media experts to learn the inner-workings of Katz Media Group, the nation’s leading media representation firm.
She listed several qualities she is looking for in an individual that applies for the program. Surprisingly, the top attribute to get the job is not an impressive resume and portfolio, professional appearance or great connections. She's looking for the student who has a 'can do' attitude. Students that have an air of entitlement do not make the cut.
My advice? In an interview, communicate that you are not afraid to roll up your sleeves to get the job done. In today's tough economy, employers are looking for individuals who are hard working and can follow through and complete tasks that they are assigned to do. So grab the squeegee!
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Another version of the "that's not my table" syndrome. If left untreated, it can result in career paralysis, where the job seeker is left wondering "why won't anyone hire me? I'm a creative genius!"
ReplyDeleteIf you want a job in marketing, be prepared to do a lot of office administrative work, such as making copies, looking up info on the Internet, and whatever else needs to be done. Share your ideas and offer support, even if it's not your project. That kind of work ethic is noticed and appreciated -- and rewarded.
That kind of attitude will serve you well even as a seasoned veteran. The top management in my company unloaded a truck last week. Obviously not the best use of company assets, but the message was clear - you do what it takes to get the job done.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great post. Most companies can teach skills, they do not teach work ethic. That has to come as part of the package. In today's economy, you must be willing to do "grunt" work as needed - the person that is not willing to will find that they are dispensable come next round of job cuts.
ReplyDeleteAt a previous job, the President would unload the dishwasher from time to time. It was nice to see that even folks at the top were willing to do some"undesirable" work. There's lots of talk from seasoned professionals that young people feel an entitlement and don't want to work their way up. Not a fair assumption about a whole generation, but...young professionals that are out to prove they are not afraid to work will do very well.