Read and React 3 Networking

If it’s anything that I learn about networking, it is you need to make friends and open up to those around you. Networking with others was one of the main reasons why I chose the Disney College Program. Inside Disney, there are countless doors of opportunities, and it up to you to find the key to the door you want to open.

Instead of networking since I arrived at Walt Disney, I was more focused on my task at hand. The word networking never came across my mind. Why may you ask? But transferring to Disney Quest during the beginning of my program was the start of my networking. I knew that things can change at any time, but this was unexpected. I thought I was off to a bad start until I met how friendly and amazing the cast member, coordinators, and leader were. Some of the cast members worked for Disney for a long time, and they shared many of their experiences with me. Before I knew it, I was being advised and mentored by those I surround myself with at work.

One day, I decided to ask a fellow cast member about switching my role to housekeeping or bell service dispatcher when I extend my program. I wanted the experience because I plan to enter the hotel industry. He told me to go ask the leaders because they have more knowledge and networks. I took his advice and I was glad that I did. I spoke with the leader, and surprisingly enough his manager was a general manager at Art of Animation Resort! He told me her name and her office hours. He said, “now that I thought of it, she the only one here that has experience outside of attractions.” I couldn’t have been any luckier.

I haven’t been able to trail a manager nor completed management task. But I did have a better understanding of the leader role. The leader had scheduled me a time during work to talk about it. I was able to speak with two leaders instead of one! I was able to gain more knowledge on what it’s like to actually be a leader. They use an analogy called the three-legged stool to help me understand what their role is like. Each leg stands for a cast member, guest, and the business. Each of the legs combined to create a balance for the company. They were able to explain to me in depth what role each of the three-leg play in part of Disney Quest.

I’ve read an interesting article called “Mistakes to Avoid by Newly Promoted Managers,” and it taught me how to become a better manager. I totally agree with the fact that you start off as an observer. Management task is important and therefore you must take it slow at first so you can get a better understanding. Once being promoted to a manager, there are more things to learn. In the article “ Mistakes Avoid by Newly Promoted Managers,” it said that managers should reach out to mentors that are willing to answer questions. Having a mentor can help the key to becoming a successful manager since they already have the experience.

In conclusion, you should always look for ways to expand your network no matter where you are. Your coworkers and managers at your worksite can be a great network to have.