Do you have a guide?

This week, I had the privilege of attending the Alaska Broadcasters Association convention in Juneau. I had never been to Juneau and after our sessions were over, Jason Palmer, one of our Leadership MasterClass participants who lives in Juneau asked me if I had time to explore the beauty of his home state. Over the next few hours, Jason took me on a tour that no map or traveler's brochure would have provided. Not only did he know where to go, he knew the stories and the hidden secrets. I am grateful to Jason for his time and guidance.

When you're in unfamiliar territory, the best thing you can do is find a guide. This is true in travel, in your career and your personal life.

A career in media sales can provide lots of unfamiliar territories. Early in my career I was blessed to have managers and mentors to help guide me along the way. I wouldn't be where I am today without them. Today, more than ever, in this ever-changing media landscape, it can be so valuable to have guides.

RAB's mission in Professional Development is to inspire, educate, equip and empower people to believe in themselves so they can achieve even greater results. Part of that strategy is to provide guidance and guides. Rising Through The Ranks is a program specifically designed for women in media who face unique challenges as they navigate the complexities of this career. We are thrilled to be bringing Rising Through The Ranks back to a live event on August 10-11 in Nashville. The application deadline has been extended to Friday, May 20, 2022. If you are a woman looking to grow, be inspired and inspire others, this program is for you.

Here are just a couple of quotes from previous participants about the impact Rising Through The Ranks has had on them:

"RTTR was impactful. The level of confidence that was breathed into my soul has stayed with me! Since RTTR, I speak with more authority, speak up when I have an idea, offer suggestions when it's not my place and volunteer to HELP in every area that I can. Co-workers turn to me for help, managers turn to me for training and discussions of promotion on the horizon are happening. I feel honored to have been awarded this opportunity. A stepping stone toward the future!"

Michelle Buck, marketing strategist, Townsquare Media

"Being able to have so many talented women in one place, all together to learn and share, has been an invaluable bonding experience and a boon in understanding the path that everyone has faced to get to the positions that they currently represent."

Marissa Austin, national account manager, Cox Media Group

"The Rising Through the Ranks program inspired me to "Act as if" it is impossible to fail and move "onward and upward" each day. I am a stronger leader and a stronger woman after participating in this program!"

Laura Hanks, sales manager, Storm Lake Radio

Someone in unfamiliar territory can easily get lost, distracted and frustrated. Sellers and leaders with any level of experience are looking for guidance, expertise and solutions to their problems. RAB's Rising Through The Ranks can help. Please apply today. And if you're ever in Juneau, connect with Jason Palmer if you need a guide.

Jeff Schmidt is SVP-Professional Development at the Radio Advertising Bureau. You can reach Jeff at jeff.Schmidt@Rab.com or follow him on social media: Twitter, LinkedIn.