Differentiating Yourself in the Workplace

Hartford, CT (4/4/2008) - A group of UConn MBA students, alumnae, and local businesswomen met for a panel discussion titled "Differentiating Yourself in the Workplace," at the Graduate Business Learning Center in downtown Hartford on Wednesday, March 19, 2008. A part of the Alumni & Friends and UConn Women's MBA Association's new Professional Development Series, the two hour session covered three main topics: Differentiating Yourself, Personal Branding, and Recognition.

The panel featured four accomplished businesswomen, including a few UConn MBA alumnae, from diverse fields. Each in a different stage of her career, the panelists brought varying perspectives and offered valuable advice and insight into their real-world achievements and challenges.

Kris Morico '04 MBA, leader of GE's Global Water and North American Chemical Management Programs, advises, "be yourself." Morico explains how you can differentiate yourself through clear communication, by building strong relationships, and by knowing how to motivate yourself and others.

Caroline Wilke, Chief of Staff – Human Resources for Aetna, offered three key differentiation strategies. First, have an executive presence - looking and acting the part. "Dress like the position you want, and spend time with the people you want to influence." Next, she emphasizes how important it is to be aware of the relationship between your role and the bottom line of your business. Finally, Wilke stresses that you need to make the choice to be a leader.

Luisa Kash '04 MBA, Senior Marketing Manager for Consumer Card Services Group at American Express, led the discussion on creating a personal brand. This concept is emphasized at American Express, and Luisa defines it as a self analysis of your strengths, development areas, and how you want to be perceived. She stressed that it is an active process and is about creating and implementing a plan to achieve your personal brand.

Gail Bruhn '82 MBA, Senior VP at Webster Bank, reminded the audience, "There is always an extra step you can take." She adds, "Say yes. Take on every job opportunity." Through these extra efforts, you gain experience, add to your skill sets, and can gain recognition.

All panelists emphasized the importance of strong performance and dependable work as a base for differentiating yourself.

The lecture was co-sponsored by the UConn Women's MBA Association and the School of Business Alumni & Friends Society (A&F).
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