Today, I had the privilege presenting alongside D.C. arts professionals Robert Pullen (Kennedy Center)  and Greg Stevens (American Association of Museums) on a career development and personal branding panel at the American University Emerging Arts Leaders Symposium. Clearly, I was not asked to speak about my arts administration expertise; I was there to talk with folks about lessons I’ve learned in paving my desired career path.

My advice to the smart and driven men and women in the room today was simply this:

• Be memorable–some of the most amazing opportunities/clients of my career were the result of someone having met and worked with me–and months or years later–thinking of me when a challenge arose that required my skill set and personality. Are you memorable? …in a good way?
• Be ready–I know Chris Brogan isn’t a big fan of business cards, but Margie Newman is.  When you run into a person who matters/gal you’d love to work for at the Whole Foods, hockey game or trendy coffee shop and they ask how they can contact you, will you be ready? I know, I know. You love technology and this is the year 2010, etc., but you seriously can’t count on everyone having the Bump app for the iPhone/Android.
• Be a communicator–you’ve got your Master’s degree in X and a passion for X and Y. That’s great, but if you want someone to hire you, you must be able to translate and articulate what that degree and passion means to his company. Stop being so humble (that doesn’t get you any where in a job search) and tell me: What do I gain by hiring you? How are you different? What do you have to offer that others do not? These questions must not only be answered verbally, but also on your resume.

It was also fun today to hear Robert and Greg tell their career development stories. Like me, both started out with a love and talent for theatre; from there, they found careers that built upon their various theatrical skill sets. Just goes to show you that every gig and passion you have can be useful in your career. You just have to take the time to find their practical application.

Special thanks to Becca for the opportunity to speak today!

Related articles by Zemanta

• What Employers Expect in New Hires (timesunion.com)