Communication advice from working with multiple small businesses
We’re about to head to NYC. Though many of the agencies are big, I’ve learned a lot from working with smaller companies.
After working with 5+ small businesses in helping with branding, social media, creative content creation, marketing, and beyond, I’ve gathered a lot of professional insight and tips that have helped me to shape the way I want go about having a career. Smaller and family-run businesses often need help with technology and are slower with communication. I hope others find this helpful when keeping open communication and getting in contact with places we visit in NYC.
- Keep your emails open and honest. It’s okay to voice your opinion on how something should be done—even if you are at the intern level. Making sure that there is a lot of transparency allows for companies to see you take the subject and/or the job seriously.
- Ask for what you need. I have had one too many emails where miscommunication was huge and I was blamed for it each time regardless of the matter. Even if you have to explain something again or repeat the last email over, except worded differently, it’ll help you be better in the end. Take a deep breath, step back, and you will totally handle it smartly and professionally. Higher-ups love seeing that you’re poised and confident in your abilities—even if that means asking for clarification.
- Always say thank you. Even if they should be thanking you. Even if it’s a quick email. Even if you’re frustrated.
- Back up your ideas. This is something I have learned so much from. I’ve specialized in social and content creation for about 3 years yet I still am quick to speak about knowing the better way to advertise a business on social media before thinking as to why I know that— did I notice that after research? Analytics? What customers said? Even if that means sending a follow-up email because you were unable to provide tangible evidence for your claim without pictures, sources, etc, it is so important.
- Know that you’re doing the best you can. If you didn’t get that email back, the promotion, or your design wasn’t used, know your worth. You worked hard to be where you are and you will continue to make bigger and better feats. Let go of the set backs and keep moving.
– Lindsey Epifano 5.1.19