It’s been an interesting journey so far of ‘team leaders’ being throned and de-throned, transforming the group to a democracy. Though perhaps the most challenging aspect of the organisation process for me so far was the communication with the guests. Being professionals with their own itineraries and no particular incentive to join the seminar, it was initially difficult to get a commitment. I managed to lock down one within the first few weeks, Josh McNicol, to represent the “Communications” aspect of our course. Being a friend of mine was certainly a benefit, especially since Josh has had experience working with clients in Europe, North America and Asia.
Through intensive LinkedIn scouring I found Lee Rogers (Film & TV), whose education at UCLA led him to a career with ties in the States, the UK and Australia. He expressed some interest in the seminar, but would not commit. On my second email, I provided Lee with a rundown of the seminar, our background as soon-to-be graduates and photos from the TV seminar. Lee confirmed then, and proved to be a lesson for me in garnering trust from strangers and potential acquaintances by providing them with as much information as is available.
The third (initial) guest was Charles Crang, a digital media professional who worked in New York as an RMIT alumnus. The fact that he graduated from RMIT gave promise that he would be willing to help out. Utilising the same persuasion techniques as I did with Lee, with a side of flattery, Charles also gave his commitment. Unfortunately, he backed down three weeks before the seminar, with the promise of helping to find a replacement. The group, however, was quick to take action and invited Bernard Wee, a group member’s friend and emerging photographer from Singapore. Everything had worked out to a tee, and planning the logistics of the seminar kicked off.
A day into the seminar week, specifically last Monday, Charles got back to me and introduced Kate Collinson, a professional of the same calibre as himself. It was an opportunity that was too good to pass, not only covering four aspects of our Communications course but having both gender balance and racial diversity. After a quick consultation with Shelley and the steering committee, the group had to alter every aspect of the seminar including the structure, the questions, even the staging, to cater to four guests. Regardless of the last minute rush, having four guests in my opinion, was beneficial in making our seminar unique and attracting audience from outside RMIT.
My job doesn’t end there, however. Using what ‘connections’ I have, I reached out to friends and acquaintances from Melbourne and Monash University to help promote this “FREE and welcome to ALL” event. It’s now the night before the seminar and I am still promoting the event on Facebook, copywriting varieties of “Free event” and “Welcome to everyone”. I can only hope that tomorrow will go smoothly and that I will have enough energy to maintain a cool composure.
