Hampton Alumni revealed the secret to a successful career during a Disney Webinar Thursday evening for Hampton University Scripps Howard students.
Though the three panelists had unique career paths at Disney, each was able to highlight a valuable skill of communication that Hampton students should be working on now.
"In any profession, being a good communicator is important," said Barry Dillard, Vice President of Disney's risk management team. "Interpersonal communication and also presentations, things like that make communication concepts crucial."
As a vice president, Dillard has a lot of responsibility in keeping thrill-seekers safe. He says his communication skills are what allows him to manage his team, accurately performing risk assessments.
Courtnee Collier is a Walt Disney Communications manager based in Orlando, FL. Her responsibilities include managing social media posts, coordinating events, and creating presentations for Disney executives.
She says communications is such a big part of her career that, "Sometimes I feel like we spend more time reporting on the work we do than actually doing the work."
Collier shared how targeting audiences with strategic communication can achieve the set goal. Using each audience's interest and creating an attractive presentation can be just as important as the success of each project. Using skillful communication allows her to deliver each message achieving the desired impact.
The panelist encouraged students to begin working on these skills by facilitating and maintaining a beneficial network as they navigate their potential career paths. Each emphasized keeping in touch with those you meet and building a good rapport.
"Even if it's just reaching out to ask about a project you saw them working on," said Christina Powell, who serves as a producer for the Tamara Hall show. "Something like that shows you are paying attention and are serious about the field."
Powell also told students to communicate with precision. Emails and messages should be brief, straight to the point, and specific. This will ensure notifications are clear and compelling. Making and maintaining a memorable impression could help in the long run. Powell shared how her connections helped in earning her current producer role.
After the hour-long webinar, students left with gems of advice from their very own Hampton Pirate family. The three Hampton Alumni made an impression on the students that were in attendance.
"I honestly attended for the extra credit," said Lauren Grayson, a third-year journalism student. "Surprisingly, I learned a lot and will put the advice into practice with future relationships!"
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