Our class discussions on self-branding, the importance of
networking, and new emphasis on cognitive capitalism made me think of a recent
organization I found out about called Ad Lounge that I think is a great example
of all these concepts. This organization
is meant for graduating students in fields such as advertising, marketing,
communications, business etc. It offers networking opportunities, including a
huge free evening of networking over dinner and drinks with leading industry
executives; however, to be a part of this organization, students must apply by
sending in their resume and filling out an application form, which is followed
by an interview in order to be selected.
The application process includes listing all your social media handles,
and their website states that students have a better chance in getting in if
they are active on social media. They state that this gives them an opportunity
to know you better. It is clear from the questions in their application that
they seek students who are aware of self-branding and are investing time to
acquire knowledge. They ask you to share your story and how you are different
while also asking how you demonstrate an interest and drive to continue to
learn more about the industry.
What do you think about this? Would you want to join? What are some
other examples that show the pressure students face in building a personal
brand, networking and investing time in continuing learning even after
graduating?
I think Ad Louge sounds like an innovative organization that takes advantage of the opportunities of networking especially online. I wouldn’t exactly call it a pressure; however I find the shift of social meida interesting. When social media first emerged it was used as somewhat of a past-time that people could use as an escape. It has quickly become a tool for marketing, self-branding and many other capital driven motives. So I wouldn’t exactly call the strict policing of social media a pressure; but it is something that everyone must be aware of. Social media is a digital representation of yourself which can be used in your advantage or disadvantage depending on how it is used.
ReplyDeleteI really like the concept of Ad Lounge but would be curious as to what constitutes as being "active" on social media. I personally am fairly active on LinkedIn and Twitter is a professional manner but I keep my Instagram and Facebook private as something I utilize to connect with close friends. It also makes me think of previous discussions we had in class regarding the expectation that is placed on young professionals to network and go above and beyond the position to be noticed in the industry. Is this company using free labour as networking? If we are expected to have this "active" personality on social media are we engaging in free labour above and beyond what was previously expected and seen when young professionals were expected to network and put more time into their job?
ReplyDeleteAd Lounge sounds like an interesting concept that could really benefit those who are accepted to attend. The aspect of applying into order to network is a small concern due to the way that Ad Lounge states that a person can have a better chance of being accepted IF they are active on social media. I agree that our social media accounts do portray our identity and should be used in order to represent ourselves, but there are questions surrounding the concept of social media being used to encourage the acceptance of being able to essentially network. My question is what if a person does not have social media but is an ideal applicant (as I have friends who are very against using it), what if the person choosing who is accepted is bias over a small aspect of an applicant, and like Jasmine mentioned above what constitutes as being active on social media? Some pressures that students face in regards to their identity and the workforce is the ability to properly and frequently keep these profiles up to date and presentable. Many may not have the time or patience to do so if they're continuing schooling after graduation or working either full time or more than the standard 40 hour work week.
ReplyDelete