Talking to the next generation of talent
It felt weird at first to talk to over 30 Glasgow Caledonian University, 4th-year creatives about getting ready to enter the creative working world.
Mainly because it didn’t feel that long ago (though it was), I was sitting there, all worried yet excited to hopefully land a job doing what I loved. Plus, getting paid for it.
I approached it as I do with client work, thinking about what value I could offer to help them now and in the future.
Here’s roughly what we chatted about:
- I walked them through why making connections is so important… basically getting comfortable talking to people, getting to know them and listening to what they might need and how you can help them.
- I walked them through my personal journey, what makes me who I am (family/life), my values, my personality traits, and my brand style, with lots of tips on how to craft their own.
- I walked them through my career journey and how each role opens opportunities to learn and evolve, moving from a producer/creator to a strategic thinker and problem solver.
- Why it’s so important to keep educating yourself, plus staying motivated and inspired, whether attending creative events, connecting with people who inspire you, or simply taking time out for a walk, shower or nap, whatever helps you reset.
- Using your skills to help people. Why not?
- Mostly, it’s just having an honest chat with them, getting them involved, and not worrying about sharing any mistakes you’ve made that might help them along their journey.
Even though the talk was just over an hour, it took about a day and a half to prepare. After all, you (well me anyway) always over prepare because you care. Then, you refine it to make sure it should land how you hope.
I absolutely loved every second of it.
Thanks to Helen Buchanan for the invite and support with the chat.
“Chris came into to GCU to speak to our final year students on the BSc (Hons) Digital Design course. He spent over an hour chatting to them about all things industry, gave advice and answered any questions they had. Chris has an amazing presence, and they felt very relaxed within his company. Chris is also a voluntary Mentor to our 4th Years and provides additional advice and guidance which is invaluable to the students. We are so lucky to have such support from industry guys like Chris and we’re hoping the relationship continues going forward.”
HELEN BUCHANAN MA, FHEA
Programme Leader Digital Design, Glasgow Caledonian University
