When I was younger, I really wanted to be a baker and open my own bakery filled with so many treats. Although I no longer continue this dream, I carry a lot of the ideologies over into my every day.
My Role at SAP
Similar to a baker, what I produce as the Solutions Marketing Intern at SAP Canada needs to well-thought-out and presentable. My role consists of a mixture of marketing and design responsibilities; this means that I’m often preparing the ingredients to better communicate our business solutions to customers.
When I think about the design aspects of my role, I think about how each step is an experiment – I never know how it will turn out. I can actively plan, sketch, and experiment but even some of my best test recipes still need feedback.
At SAP, I have been able to get extremely constructive “taste tests” which have helped me polish my work. I can’t be a baker who cooks for himself, otherwise, no one will buy what I’m selling. I love that my work challenges me and gives me so many opportunities to rise and proof.
Below is my current personal recipe for a better product after my time at SAP.
1. It starts with the ingredients
I often hear people say they regret not accomplishing what they had wanted to in an internship. If you aren’t feeling challenged, speak up! There might be more opportunities available. The product is only as great as one of the fundamental ingredients: your attitude. Be positive and confident. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, communicate that as well and make the most of what you have. In my role, I was excited to take on the responsibility of planning and attending a conference. However, I felt stressed about what needed to be done. By being more vocal, I was able to get the support I needed to finish my deliverables.
2. Taste everything and try anything
When starting a new role or working with new people, be open to change and seize the opportunity to get a taste of different responsibilities. This will help get you out of your shell and make the most of your experience. I am personally not a big videographer but am willing to take on the challenge and learn new skills.
3. Recipes may vary
Each person has different opinions on how things should be. Some will say a dash of improvements here and some will frankly say that’s not how you’re supposed to do it. Be ok with this friction and find a method that not only works best for you but also for all the people that you work with. That feedback is invaluable and will help you grow. Just try not to take comments personally. For me, designs and ideas are meant to be iterated on to help me create more complete products.
4. Give it time to rise and develop
You may not be baking elaborate wedding cakes right off the bat; it may take some time for you to see the impact that you make. Be patient. I’ve learned that good things don’t happen when you rush.
As I complete the first half of my internship at SAP, I hope I can continue to carry out this recipe and become stronger as I prepare for my graduation.
Ricky is a senior BBA student concentrating in marketing with a minor in Interactive Arts & technology. He is currently completing his term as the Supplier Solutions Marketing Specialist Intern at SAP Canada Inc. When he’s not working, he can be found rock climbing or trying new foods.