Biggest Challenges Faced By A Web Marketing Lead At Blend
Marisa's biggest challenge as Web Marketing Lead at a startup is tackling unfamiliar tasks, admitting that "every once in a while there's going to be a task that I don't know how to do," but the most effective solution found is proactively seeking help from colleagues, documenting the learning process for future reference, and ultimately building their skillset.
Problem-Solving, Communication, Teamwork, Overcoming Challenges, Career Development
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Marisa Brazelton
Web Marketing Lead
Blend
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
NYU Stern School of Business - MBA, Specializations in Tech Product Management, Leadership and Change Management, and Strategy
Business Management & Admin
Finance (Banking, Fintech, Investing), Technology
Communication and Marketing
Greek Life Member
Video Highlights
1. Working at a startup means wearing many hats and facing unfamiliar tasks, requiring adaptability and proactive learning.
2. Overcoming the intimidation of tackling unknown tasks by researching, seeking help, and documenting the learning process for future reference.
3. The importance of building relationships and seeking mentorship; colleagues are generally willing to assist, benefiting both the learner and the mentor through knowledge sharing and skill development.
Transcript
What is your biggest challenge in your current role?
I'm currently at a startup company, so we definitely have a smaller team than you might find at a bigger tech company. This means everyone does different sorts of jobs.
When you come into the role, you won't know how to do everything, but that's a positive because it gives you the chance to learn. Something I find challenging is that most projects I get, I know how to approach them.
However, every once in a while, there's a task I don't know how to do or may not have experience with, and that can be a little intimidating. I like to be able to do everything on my own without asking for help.
That's been an adjustment. If it's something I'm unfamiliar with, I'll do my best to research and figure it out myself. But the most effective way I've found to fix that is to reach out to the person I need help from.
I'll tell them where I'm at and explain that I tried looking into it myself. I'll share what I've done so far but mention where I got stuck and ask if they can walk me through it on a call.
I've always found that to be very helpful. You can schedule a 30-minute Zoom call with someone. I usually record it in addition to taking notes so I can refer back to it.
That way, next time I have similar tasks, I have that "aha" moment and realize I can do it myself. I don't have to go back and ask, and that's always very helpful.
Every single time, people are willing to say yes to those calls. You're also helping them in the long run. You're showing that you're willing to learn and can learn from what they're teaching you.