It has been far too long since my last post. School, work, and the day-to-day have caused me to hit the blog pause button. But only the awe-inspiring Ms. Valeisha Butterfield could inspire me to hit play again.
Syracuse University's Black Communications Society (BCS) sponsored an event aptly titled, "An Evening with Ms. Butterfield." Though it was roaring wind and pouring rain, Ms. Butterfield managed to weather the storm, looking fabulous in an all black ensemble offset with a pointy-statement necklace and the latest trademark trend, a pair of Christian Louboutin booties, street name "red bottoms." Not to mention, the hair was whipped!
But, we obviously weren't there to talk fashion. We were there to talk business! And the staunch business woman was the perfect conversationalist.
As the appointed Deputy Director of Public Affairs for the International Trade Administration (ITA) in the United States Department of Commerce for the Obama Administration, Butterfield has a key role in supporting President Obama's national economic agenda to revive the global economy, create jobs and renew growth that benefits all people. (via weenonline.org)
She is also the Co-founder and Chair of the Women in Entertainment Empowerment Network (WEEN). According to their webpage, WEEN is a worldwide coalition of women, all ages and races, committed to supporting, promoting and defending the balanced, positive portrayal of women in entertainment and society. And let's face it, there has never been a more necessary time for such an organization to exist.
The image of women in the media is at an all time low and WEEN is one of the key players leading the crusade for change.
Part of WEEN's mission is to provide "personal advancement for young women nationwide." Butterfield held true to this mission, by setting time out to speak to a group of young and old hopefuls in entertainment.
The conversation was comfortable, candid, and constructive as Ms. Butterfield shared her wealth of knowledge and experience working in both the corporate and entertainment industries.
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| Valeisha Butterfield and I at BCS event |
In paraphrases, Here's what I learned from Valeisha Butterfield.
On Interning...
Make sure you're filling a void. If you've completed and internship and they aren't missing you, you haven't done your job. Your presence should fill a void and make a strong impact.
On Working...
For companies, its about what you can produce. How much money can you produce for the company? Are you bringing in sponsorship money? Companies are looking for someone who can be an asset and bring in the dough. Makes sense right?
On Mentorship...
Don't just call when you need something. Keep in touch regularly to build mentorship and make sure its not a take-take relationship. Actually show that you care by sending cards on their birthday, etc. This doesn't mean be fake, but it does mean be thoughtful and smart.
On Climbing the Ladder...
Surround yourself with people you want to be your peers one day. Ms. Butterfield shared stories of waiting outside an execs office at a time when they might be showing up to work. Wow, that's dedication. Of course, you'll want to avoid being carried out sideways by security, so be forward...not awkward. The point is to place yourself in an environment convenient for potential opportunities to arise and to just familiarize yourself with what you one day hope to be doing.
On marketing...
Look at yourself as a brand in whatever field. Look at yourself now as the brand you want to become.
Sound advice from someone who knows. What more could you ask for?
If you want to learn more about Valeisha Butterfield and/or her work visit weenonline.org.
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