What One Semester in RaiderComm Taught Me About Being a Leader

By: Sophia Bohnert

Last semester, I had the opportunity to serve as the account manager for RaiderComm’s Internal Account Team. I had no prior experience in this position and felt a little overwhelmed. However, I am thankful that I took a chance and decided to apply for the position. In one semester, I learned and practiced several indispensable skills that are extremely applicable to the workplace. One skill that seems straightforward is planning. I feel that it is easy to underestimate the importance of creating a plan. While having a plan does not guarantee success, it makes a daunting goal feel much more attainable. Last semester, my team and I planned a couple of events for the agency. My planning skills were not the best. There were times when I felt very rushed in carrying out an event because I lacked a detailed plan. While it is good to practice working under pressure, I feel that I made myself stress a little more than necessary. Going into this semester, I feel much more confident about being a leader and the importance of planning ahead. Because RaiderComm is structured into multiple account teams, I worked with several peers on different accounts. I understand how teamwork can make or break the quality of deliverables and client satisfaction now more than ever. As an account manager, I’ve learned to delegate roles to team members and use their strengths to the benefit of the entire team. In the end, I feel that I had a very successful first semester in RaiderComm, leaving me with the skills I need to become a more confident professional. I am excited to implement these skills again in my second semester!