COURTNEY McKAY
Messiah College/Art Business
Step 1: Provide a basic summary of my networking experience, specifically a documentation of the various interactions.
To learn the relationship skills necessary to interact with artists, patrons, donors, etc.
Lost World / Found World Reception Documentation: (Click Here)
For the past couple months I have been able to connect with a variety of people. I've made connections with staff, and I've conversed with artists about their pieces when they've dropped in. I've had conversations with patrons and other museum goers. The whole time I have been networking, and it is a necessary component to my future career. It is the lifeblood of how we connect with others.
One thing I have noticed while interning is that in Harrisburg non-profit world, networking is everything. You are always trying to work with other organizations and if at all possible to get donations to your organization. There is always a connection that can help you. It is always good to maintain relationships since you will never know when it could be useful (not that is the only reason why you should make connections). It is always important. You never know who might be a potential donator or volunteer.
Lauren has been great with maintaning her connections. She is quick to reply to their messages and to answer any questions they have. I know that timelines in those matters are important. I know that I need to be more agressive in maintaining the connections I have. A quick email can keep you in their mind, and it's definitely something I need to work on.
Overall, I feel like the general interactions I would have between the various members of the community and myself are just as I imagined they would and should be. I need to approach each interaction with the best intentions and willing to work with people. Relationship skills are necessary for anyone to function in the business world.
Step 2: Reflection
Learning Objective #2
This is an image of myself heading into the Reception, click on the link above to see more from the reception!
What have I learned as a result of this activity? One of the key thing I learned is that networking is essential to an organization. It is important to always be making connections in order to gain both business partners and patrons.
What new knowledge or skills have I gained? I was able to talk to various members in the community and make connections. I have learned how to be flexible and how to be intentional in my coversations. I must be able to work with a diverse range of people that span from artists, to causual community members, to board members and back to other staff. I have to be able to work well with others.