Career Lesson From A Book Marketing And Publicity Coordinator At Penguin Random House
Rylie's significant career lesson centers on "always remaining open to learning new skills and new things," a realization that led them from initially seeking editorial roles to embracing a marketing and PR position, ultimately pursuing a master's in business. This adaptability demonstrates a growth mindset and highlights the value of "learning on the job," leading to unexpected career success.
Career Development, Job Search, Communication, Resilience, Overcoming Challenges
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Rylie Walsh
Book Marketing & Publicity Coordinator
Penguin Random House
Loyola Marymount University
Loyola University Chicago, MBA
Communications
Arts, Entertainment & Media
Communication and Marketing
Honors Student, Worked 20+ Hours in School, Transfer Student
Video Highlights
1. Remain open to learning new skills and things. Rylie initially wanted an editorial position but pivoted to marketing and PR when she didn't receive offers for editorial roles. This adaptability has been beneficial to her career.
2. Don't be afraid to explore different career paths. Rylie's background wasn't strictly in marketing or PR, but she successfully transitioned into the field and is now pursuing a master's in business.
3. Continuous learning and professional development are important. Rylie's decision to pursue a master's degree in business demonstrates her commitment to ongoing learning and growth in her field. This is a valuable lesson for anyone interested in a long-term career in this field.
Transcript
What is one lesson you have learned that has proven significant in your career?
Across education and career, something that has become really valuable to me is the lesson of always remaining open to learning new skills and new things. I personally wanted to find an editorial position, where I would be looking at manuscripts all day, piecing words together.
However, I didn't end up doing that. I was getting a lot of rejections from editorial roles I was applying to. I realized I needed to broaden the scope of my job search.
I understood that I'm not just good with words; I'm good at other things too. I had to have a conversation with myself, encouraging myself to apply to other types of roles. So when I saw the marketing and PR job at Hay House, I took the chance.
There were a couple of other jobs I remember applying for that weren't necessarily what I thought I wanted. I had interviews and decided to stick with the Hay House opportunity, which led to learning marketing skills. I wasn't a marketing or business undergraduate major.
While I had a minor in public relations in college, I didn't personally pursue it. It was quite new at the time, and I didn't think I had time to add it to my studies. But remaining open to learning these new areas on the job has been beneficial.
It makes me feel that no matter where you start, you're able to learn and progress. I'm even going to graduate school in the fall, attending Loyola Chicago. I'll be getting my master's in business, likely focusing on marketing or analytics. I'm now really interested in learning more about this field and its potential.