Professional Networking

By: Michelle Shember

The power of networking is not something to be underestimated, especially in today’s fast-paced business world. Making meaningful connections with people in various positions and industries can be the key to an opportunity, an interview, a career. Before he graduated, Ruben Norman, B.B.A.'14, discovered that being involved and creating connections can open many doors.

 “Looking for opportunities to get involved isn’t hard—take the time to look at the postings around the University! It’s the best way to gain preparation for life after college in a business environment,” Norman says.

Norman speaks from experience. In his four years at WMU, he held nearly 12 positions on campus in more than eight registered student organizations. From participating in the Business Externship Program offered through the college's career center to becoming president of the Food Marketing Association, he explains that the earlier you get involved, the better.

During the spring semester of 2014, Norman was working as a student ambassador for the business college. His responsibilities included guiding tours for prospective students and their parents, explaining resources offered at the college, and acting as a representative to potential students.

“While giving a tour to a prospective student and his father about the food and consumer package goods marketing program, I found out that his father, who worked for SC Johnson, recognized me from the Food Marketing Conference I attended a few weeks prior,” Norman says. “At the conference, I did some transitions between speakers with the Executive Forum. He noticed me and found out I was a student ambassador. During the tour, I got an opportunity to speak with him in detail and learn more about SC Johnson and what they offer as an organization. At the conclusion of the tour we exchanged contacts and stayed in touch throughout the summer.”

When Norman returned to campus last fall, SC Johnson had signed on as a Premier Partner with the career center. Norman contacted the company and expressed his interest in becoming a part of its team. SC Johnson flew Norman out to its headquarters in Racine, Wisconsin, to interview for a full-time position. “About a week later, I met with Gary, who I had met during the tour. I was extended a full-time offer with the company. The following Monday, I signed on with SC Johnson!”

Norman later found out that his offer from SC Johnson was record-breaking; in his new position as a senior category analyst, Norman was offered the second highest salary ever achieved by a graduating food marketing student from WMU.

In January 2015, Norman began work as a senior category analyst representing SC Johnson Brands. In this position, his responsibilities include providing fact-based solutions to the development of SC Johnson brands in addition to the retail outlets with which the company partners.

Through his involvement on campus in numerous positions and organizations, Norman successfully made the connection that opened the door to a full-time position.

“Networking and skill development are the two biggest benefits of being involved on campus,” says Norman. “They are some of the biggest factors in achieving the best possible college experience.”