Name: Elizabeth Clark
Title: Account Executive
Company: BPI Media Group
Company URL: www.bpimediagroup.com
LinkedIn Profile URL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melizabethc/
Did you choose print or did print choose you?
I chose print! Early in my career, I was a customer where I work now (BPI). I quit that job at 23 and began working for BPI in customer service when we still did film, bluelines, and matchprints. 19 years later, it’s amazing to see how the industry has transformed with technology and automation and produce even more beautiful print pieces.
How do you establish credibility with customers, colleagues and bosses?
By partnering with them as a collaborator rather than a salesperson. I try to have more of a consultant, ask-me-anything approach and offer opportunities for learning about design, substrates, mailing criteria, etc.
What advice can you offer regarding negotiating salary raises/ addressing fair pay issues?
Speak with a trusted peer or mentor about it before approaching management to make sure your approach and ask are well received. Getting feedback and doing a trial run of the ask can help the conversation go much more smoothly.
What advice did you receive early in your career that you wished you had followed?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and be curious. It took me a while to learn this, but instead of nodding and pretending to know about a topic, it’s ok to ask questions. It’s also ok to say, “you know what, I’m not sure, but I will find out for you!” Then, do your homework and report back.
