Entrepreneur, author and digital media mogul Karen Civil visited Dillard University April 6 as a guest lecturer for PHI444 a course on hip hop, sex, gender and ethical behavior taught by university president Dr. Walter Kimbrough.
The crowd was made mostly of PHI444 students and mass communication majors, but here are five Karen Civil inspired tips that are useful for any major.
Live in your purpose
From an early age Civil knew that she loved music, and she said she was determined to turn her hobby into a job. Her childhood infatuation with “The Backstreet Boys” transformed into the largest fan website the group has had until this day. “The internet can give me what I want,” said Civil. She has been living in her purpose since she realized it.
Just try
From “MTV Fanatic,” “The Apprentice,” and interning for Funkmaster Flex, Civil experienced several setbacks, but she said she always tried. “Do not substitute your blueprint for a cheat sheet,” said Civil. Commit yourself to whatever it is you wish to pursue.
Be patient
Although measuring a goal is commendable, “do not put a timeframe on your success,” said Civil. So many people stop working toward a goal because it hasn’t been achieved in a certain amount of time, but patience is a virtue. Civil said there are many people who want to be associated with success, but do not want to put in the work to get there; don’t be one of those people.
Network wisely
Networking is more than shaking a hand, giving out a business card and asking for a chance. “Find ways to separate yourself,” said Civil. She attributed one of her past promotional opportunities to the fact that she researched the demographics of her follower base that others hadn’t. Civil also added that you have to go directly to the “big names” and bosses. It’s all about the people behind the scenes. “Ask yourself, ‘can I do business with them,’ warned Civil. Not every connection is a positive one.
Inform and educate yourself
Civil said that she and other millennial babies are fortunate for the access to technology and information that we have. Google, YouTube and Wikipedia are available at the click of a button to teach virtually whatever it is we need to know. “You are what you read,” said Civil. It is critical to stay informed so you can perform to the best of your ability.
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Take in a few of these tips and you’ll be “living civil,” in no time.
