Every once in a while I’m asked about opportunities that present themselves once you’re down on the program- and there are many. Today, I’ll be talking about this part of my own journey.
I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t enjoy talking too much about myself, but I think it might help those looking for perspectives on things that can be accomplished while down on the Disney College and CareerStart programs. Suffice it to say, that there a lot of program participants, and the desire to distinguish yourself among the crowd can be important to many. There are definitely opportunities that Disney mentions on the program websites (like networking events), but there are other things that can distinguish yourself from the ranks, and even lead to a stellar performance review.
1. Work as hard and as smart as you can. This is true anywhere you go. When you show initiative in your work location and show that you truthfully care about your performance, the leaders in your area may be more inclined to stick their neck out and help you on your way. It’s like the old adage—nothing ventured is nothing gained. If you don’t put in the work, don’t expect to bear out the rewards.
2. Network, network, network! Despite what you’re told, “what you know” is very important. The thing is though, it’s all worthless if you have no one to share it with- “what you know” is all a function of “who you know”. Disney provides several great paths for networking, three of which I highly recommend. The first one is a weekly class that is a available in numerous disciplines named the Disney Exploration Series (DES). Leaders from different facets of the Walt Disney World Co. (and affiliates) come out to lecture and field questions from participants, and almost always stick around afterwords for follow ups. Another great resource that I’ve used is the “Career Insights With…” series, which is similar to the DES. Finally, something a lot of people overlook is simply talking to your leaders- if you develop your relationship with them, they may extend their network to you.
3. Keep an eye out on opportunities. You may be taking a semester off from school, but you never cease to be life long student. There is something that always surprised me about participants- many aren’t looking at the vast amount of opportunities that present themselves while you’re on program. I was fortunate enough to stumble upon one of these opportunities myself.
A posting in my local work area was soliciting for facilitators for our resort orientation classes. I didn’t think much of it at first, but one of the coordinators of training stopped me one day and pushed the idea on me. Hesitantly I went along with it, and auditioned for the role a couple days later. To make the story short, I ended up getting this cross-utilization role, and the more I thought about it, the idea grew on me. One full week of training later, I was an official Disney Facilitator & Trainer and was good to lead classes. By the time I finished I had over 120 cast members go through my classes, including the new General Manager of Disney’s Polynesian Resort and his related support staff.
I was extremely fortunate for having had the opportunity, and to think I almost passed it up! It definitely distinguished me from the pack, and I even got a set of company-issued Polynesian Leader Kukui Nuts! Wherever this journey may take you, always look for ways to move up in the ranks- I’m sure glad I did.
Coming up next week: Housing, Parts I and II
Labels:
College and CareerStart Programs •
Development •
Roles •
