Notes from the Commons

NAWMBA and the Marketing Club held their first event organized by new leadership for both clubs on April 2nd. Vivian Callaway – V.P of Consumers Insights at General Mills shared career insights and the 30 attendees enjoyed networking with appetizers. Dean Puto, Assistant Dean Woodson and Linda Sloan – Director of the Graduate Business Career Service, attended the event as well.
Vivian shared great points on what her career has taught her. She advised on the importance of being passionate when choosing the industry, organization and function for your career as you always do better in what you love. She continued by stating that communication skills are very essential and should be emphasized. Vivian made an interesting point that “It is important to note that nobody is as smart as everybody and so it is important to be a team player and learn what others do.” In addition, honesty is the best policy in working for any organization and it is better to earn respect than love. Finally, Vivian advised to live a full life and bring the outside into your organization. – ’It is better than Ok to be human.’
When posed with a question regarding advice for jobs/internships in the current recession, Vivian advised to make personal connections through informational interviews and the exploration of part time jobs in the meantime. Anything that presents an opportunity to get your way into an organization and float brilliant ideas that would be of interest to potential employers could lead to long term success. Vivian also noted the importance of including information in your resume about how you made a difference in a situation and the outcome in order to stand out from the many smart people out there. She noted that General Mills is a leader in promoting women to executive levels and suggested that the face of many organizations has changed over the years. Women are getting more involved and being recognized. Callaway noted that while it is important to look for signs that an organization is inclusive, it is becoming less of an issue as most companies have adopted an inclusive philosophy.
Vivian finished her presentation by reminding us that ‘There is no right way, so do it your way’
Submitted by Joan Malit