Ashley Larmond

Reason #732 - Spend the summer making an opportunity, rather than waiting for one.

SUNY Fashion Institute of Technology's school of continuing and professional studies is boasting a great campaign for their summer session of credited and non-credit courses. As an FIT alum, this was the first place I looked when I began to consider returning to school. My goal is to both strengthen my skills and advance in my career, so I am only looking to take a few short-term courses...

If you are currently looking for a job, whether it's just a job, your dream job, or a new direction in your existing career, you're likely to experience a good amount of rejection. Take it from me, over the past 2 years I must have sent my resume to every 2nd connection on LinkedIn or contact I've met at a networking event. It feels like I'm not getting anywhere, but then I think about it...I've gone from sending my resume and never hearing back, to getting phone interviews, then video interviews(so awkward), and a few in person meetings. I haven't received an offer but clearly I'm getting closer.

I believe this is because I decided to pursue alternative opportunities in the meantime, in order to grow my skill set and remain active in the workforce. I've been blessed to have started a career in marketing straight out of college 2 years ago. Although I've had steady work, I have not been able to "break in" to the industry I'm passionate about. Since I already have a great job, and have set myself up to continue my growth in this field if necessary, it would be so easy to settle in for the ride.

It's been a huge year for Netflix, with original programming hits, House of Cards, and Orange is the New Black. The leading internet TV network is using this momentum to introduce their new tagline, 'It just might bring everyone together'. This positions Netflix as a tool to bring your family together for viewing. If I were on the marketing team I would've been pushing for alternative positioning for Holiday ads. During this time of year you are most likely spending more time than you necessarily WANT to with your family. Netflix now allows you to create up to 5 user profiles on one account, allowing for personalized recommendations. Each profile can be connected to Facebook so that you can get recommendations based on what your friends are watching.

The new holiday spot from Netflix could show the entire family gathered in the living room while viewing Netflix programming, while 1 or 2 members watch something different on their tablet or smartphone. This shows the flexibility of Netflix while also "bringing everyone together".

I've been researching volunteer programs in NYC, and this mentor program through HBO is something I would definitely join. When a company provides these types of opportunities for their employees to give back, it can create a huge impact. It positively affects the company and community, while boosting employee morale.

In my current role I prompted a pop tab collection initiative to benefit the Ronald McDonald House. The funds generated from the recycling of the tabs are used to off-set the expenses of the House locations, helping families focus on the health and care of their loved ones. If your company provides canned beverages in the kitchen, or a vending machine, this is an easy way to help your community!

Learn more about the Pop Tab Collection Program here. Put those cans of carbonated beverages to good use!

Industry newbie FXX, new home to comedy treasures It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia and The League, is in the news this morning for making TV History.  You may have previously recognized FXX simply as the kid sister to FX. From now on you’ll know it as the FIRST cable network set to air reruns of the longest-running scripted show in television history, THE SIMPSONS.  FXX  is set to make a deal with network owner FOX Broadcasting Co. that includes VOD/non-linear rights to upwards of 500 Simpson episodes. The deal is expected to close around at LEAST $750M…with the potential to grow, making this contract one of the priciest in TV History. As Homer would say, D’oh!!!