Read on Twitter
Our #PlankSummerSessions is kicking off now on Facebook Live! Stay tuned to this thread for our major takeaways from the Emerging Leaders Committee — and let us know what you think!
Our first question is "For new graduates who are struggling to find a job currently, how can they use this time to hone their skills or make connections that will help down the road?"
“If a company has a hiring freeze right now, ask if you can shadow them for a day … professionals will be looking for ways to help new graduates find jobs,” says #PlankLeader @MaretMontanari. #PlankSummerSessions
“You have to show your hustle right now … if you can show you can play in that environment, it can be a huge way to put yourself over the top. Pick up some additional skills during this time,” says #PlankLeader @BrianDPrice. #PlankSummerSessions
“Flexibility and adaptability are going to be key right now … it’s the time to show you’re willing to roll up your sleeves and help with anything possible,” says #PlankLeader @LeahSeay.
“Everyone is in the same situation of fear and hesitation right now … it’s so important to show up with a good attitude everyday, really to put your best foot forward. You can only do so much, but you can do it well.” — @taylor_shelnutt #PlankSummerSessions
“Understanding what our industry and economy is going through right now is pretty important … understand the trends and what people are going through and be very aware of it,” @MyreeteW says of being a value add to your company or firm during this time. #PlankSummerSessions
Next question: Given that jobs are scarce, what can I do to stand out in interviews right now?
“I want to know how you best use your time … show up with a case study on what you took from COVID-19.” — @MyreeteW #PlankSummerSessions
“I want to know how you best use your time … show up with a case study on what you took from COVID-19.” — @MyreeteW #PlankSummerSessions
“Having more time to prepare for your interview, go through and craft some answers to questions you might be asked. Get in your mind some situational examples that let your skills shine,” says #PlankLeader @BonelliSays. #PlankSummerSessions
“Demonstrating business acumen in your interview will be key … in PR, we’re not just storytellers, we also really understand the business and can articulate where we are.” — @leahseay #PlankSummerSessions
“You get credit for showing your work, even if you didn’t get it perfect … let them see how your mind works and how you approach challenging situations,” says @BrianDPrice on interviews. #PlankSummerSessions
Next question: In the age of remote work, how can you maintain a commitment to professional development?
“A job is such a great form of professional development … look for opportunities within your company to grow and take on more responsibilities,” says @MaretMontanari.
“A job is such a great form of professional development … look for opportunities within your company to grow and take on more responsibilities,” says @MaretMontanari.
Next question: When we're all working from home, how can we guardrails and balance?
“I think this is a unique opportunity … there is more time in your day to carve out the pieces that benefit your life outside work. Form a schedule and stick to routine.” — @taylor_shelnutt
“I think this is a unique opportunity … there is more time in your day to carve out the pieces that benefit your life outside work. Form a schedule and stick to routine.” — @taylor_shelnutt
“I’ve been encouraging people I mentor to figure out what they want to keep post-COVID and figure out ways they can incorporate that once we go back into the workforce … I want them to be vocal about it,” says @MyreeteW. #PlankSummerSessions
“For me, it’s been really helpful to figure out the ebbs and flows of my projects … work-life balance is hard to do all the time, so I’ve identified the times I’ll be swamped and busy and the times I won’t be as busy.” — @LeahSeay #PlankSummerSessions
Next question: What can mid-level and executive-level leaders be doing to support their teams in this time?
“I’ve loved receiving personalized check-ins … someone who takes the time to sit down and write a note. Those are little touch points leaders can do.” — @MaretMontanari
“I’ve loved receiving personalized check-ins … someone who takes the time to sit down and write a note. Those are little touch points leaders can do.” — @MaretMontanari
“I have felt closer to my agency, further away from them, than I ever have … lean into your managers, and use that time to check-in with your superiors, since they probably don’t have many people checking in on them.” — @MyreeteW #PlankSummerSessions
Thank you for joining us for today’s edition of #PlankSummerSessions. If you missed any part of today’s panel, you can check out the full video below + stay tuned for details on our next Session! https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=998223417319967
