College Experiences That Helped A Product Marketing Manager At Walmart Succeed
Reflecting on their undergraduate experience, the Product Marketing Manager at Walmart wishes they had pursued consulting or market research earlier, but recognizes the importance of relationship-building in their career trajectory. The individual's current role resulted from maintaining a positive relationship with their hiring manager, illustrating the value of "focus[ing] on relationship skills," a strategy that proved instrumental in securing a long-term professional opportunity.
Networking, Relationship Building, Career Pivoting, Marketing, Communication
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Eileen Wong
Product Marketing Manager
Walmart
Cornell
Columbia MBA
Hospitality Administration
Apparel, Beauty, Retail & Fashion
Communication and Marketing
Immigrant
Video Highlights
1. Focus on building relationships throughout your college years and beyond. Networking and maintaining positive connections can lead to unexpected career opportunities later.
2. Consider internships or other experiences in market research, marketing, or management consulting to gain a head start in your career.
3. Don't be afraid to explore different areas and paths; it's okay not to have a clear career path figured out early on in your college years. Focus on developing transferable skills such as relationship building
Transcript
What did you do in undergrad to set you up for success in your career?
Honestly, that's a hard question because, in a way, I feel like I got a late start. I didn't really know what I wanted to do, and if I could go back in time, I would just do consulting.
I wish I had pursued market research, marketing consulting, or management consulting earlier to get a head start. That's what I would do if I could go back.
But looking back at what I did do, I feel I've always had a focus on relationships. I think that helped me get my current job. I met my current hiring manager when I was still in my early twenties.
I was volunteering there, and she was a coordinator. We just really liked each other, and I thought she was really cool. I kept in touch.
She did very well in marketing and is now a director. Reaching out to her, and having a good relationship 10 years later, helped me get this job.
I think it's about seeing everything as an opportunity. Not in a transactional way, but just make sure you don't alienate too many people. It's okay if you do; not everyone is meant to have a relationship with you. Focus on figuring out who you click with and how to build relationships.
Focusing on relationship skills, you just never know what will happen down the line.
Advizer Personal Links
No