Final Thoughts as a Lessing-Flynn Intern

May 27, 2010 in Lessing-Flynn, The Lessing-Flynn Intern
Tags: Betsy Freese, do more in the city, intern, Jeff Caldwell, Lessing-Flynn, little debbie, Meredith Corporation, networking, Social Media Club Des Moines, spencer anderson

Of all the various things I’ve written over the past year as Lessing-Flynn’s marketing intern I can say this is without a doubt the most challenging.  I tried making top-ten lists and other ways of collecting my thoughts, but they all seemed too cliche/corny. So here we go…

To other interns/future interns:

Network. Network. Network. I cannot say this enough.  This should be your number one priority after your work.  Whether you network at events, online, or through your school it’s all vital to your growth as a professional.  I was able to attend several “Do More in the City“ events last summer hosted by the Greater Des Moines Partnership and I met many bright young minds and area professionals.

Also, take your networking online and beef up your LinkedIn account.  I know for a fact mine played a role in landing my first full-time job after college.

Get outside your comfort zone. I know I said I’d stay away from the cliches, but I couldn’t help myself.  Push yourself to try new things and don’t be afraid of falling on your face in the process.  Lessing-Flynn challenged me many times and I was always amazed at what could happen in the process.  You might even win a “prestigious” award with muffins.  See details of my honor here. (Side note: When Little Debbie didn’t quite deliver, social media saved the day and they totally redeemed themselves)

Be thankful. I’ve been given HUGE opportunities to advance myself professionally and I’m so thankful to everyone who has given me a chance.  I need to thank Jeff Caldwell and Betsy Freese at Meredith Corporation for allowing me to write for Agriculture.com in 2008. That opportunity has opened many doors for me and I’ll be forever grateful.

Some say the art of the handwritten thank you note is dead. I can’t speak to the truth of that, but I can’t recommend them highly enough.  It will leave a lasting positive impression and is one of the simplest forms of sincerity.

Have fun. I’ve been lucky to work with some real characters here at Lessing-Flynn.  They’re people who love what they do and have fun doing it.  Surround yourself with similar people and you’ll enjoy your work.  Trust me, I know I have.

To everyone I’ve met while in Des Moines:

You’re smart, talented, and a downright awesome group of people that make Des Moines and Iowa a better place to work and live.  I’ve learned so much from blog posts, Tweets, and conversations.  Groups like the Social Media Club of Des Moines have allowed me to expand my knowledge and network, and I’m grateful I’ve had the opportunity to meet so many of you.  So to everyone I’ve encountered while in central Iowa, thank you.

To everyone at Lessing-Flynn:

I can’t thank you enough for letting me be your intern.  I’ve learned and experienced so much that will help me with the next stage of my career.  While after a year I still have no clue how to use the office phones you’ve given me so much to be proud of.  From standing out on Ingersoll in a cardboard box ( I did say “proud of”) to blogging, tweeting, filming baby turtles (more to come on that…), and being an integral part of so many things.  You’ve made me feel like a part of your family.  Tom, Connor, Bellana, Chris A., Chris H., Mike, Jordan, Sharon, Joel, Jess, Jim, Joe and Josh, I firmly believe you represent the best this industry has to offer. Again, thank you.

Spencer

:: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: ::