Hi, my name is Kia Ashley Clark, and I have been given the wonderful opportunity to serve as the communications and marketing intern for The L3 Agency. During my first two weeks, I learned many details about the company and its mission. The L3 Agency connects to its clients and their respective audiences through marketing and communications while also striving to make meaningful impacts and diversity.
My first week was a shorter one as Monday was the Fourth of July, a national holiday. On Tuesday, I received a warm welcome from my new team members. We corresponded through email as many are remote. I began my remote onboarding training with our Operations Manager, Mia Hicks. She went over the company’s details and expectations via PowerPoint presentation. We also discussed various platforms which the agency uses to help the company run more efficiently, including tools the employees and interns use. We also reviewed my schedule. Everyone was extremely gracious and agreed to work with my current hectic schedule.
I was able to connect with our veteran Marketing and Communications Intern, Jhana Harvey. Ms. Harvey is a pioneer within the company and has authored a comprehensive Internship Guide which has been extremely helpful with the learning process. Ms. Harvey is also kind, professional, and makes herself available to answer any questions I may have. I continued reading more tutorials regarding various platforms, and immersing myself within The L3 Agency’s signature podcast titled, Black Businesses Matter. Listening to the podcast episodes was an enjoyable experience, and I took note of things I could personally use in the future.
The next day on Wednesday, was more or less the same process. I met remotely with our agency Founder and CEO, Larvetta Loftin. Ms. Loftin reassured me that the company focuses on collaboration in order to reach its goals. We then discussed my company email as I had a few technical issues arise while setting it up, which is now resolved! I spent my time setting up my work accounts and completing simple tasks. I also met with Ms. Harvey and Ms. Shepherd remotely to go over the Internship Guide and related topics.
On Monday, I had my first official check in meeting with our operations manager, Mia Hicks. These meetings are easily becoming something I look forward to as Ms. Hicks is extremely nice and supportive. These check in meetings are meant to provide support and a place where we can go over tasks. I am also able to ask any questions that may arise throughout the week. Ms. Hicks is easily accessible to me outside of these weekly check-ins as well, which is great as I am someone who asks many questions. I also completed a monthly company survey on this day . The survey questions seemed catered to understanding the position of the employees, which is nice!
Tuesday was similar to Monday, minus any remote meetings. I made sure my accounts were in good standing, sent and responded to emails, and researched for a client. Working remotely is nice as there is not a commute to make, however staying focused and alert is key! I tend to make either iced chai lattes or iced coffee and of course lots of water to stay energized! The goals of the agency and its clients are interesting and impactful, so the content is interesting and engaging!
On Wednesday I went to the office located on the south side of Chicago to meet and work with the company’s Assistant Account Executive Katori Shepherd.
The next day on Wednesday, was more or less the same process. I met remotely with our agency Founder and CEO, Larvetta Loftin. Ms. Loftin reassured me that the company focuses on collaboration in order to reach its goals. We then discussed my company email as I had a few technical issues arise while setting it up, which is now resolved! I spent my time setting up my work accounts and completing simple tasks. I also met with Ms. Harvey and Ms. Shepherd remotely to go over the Internship Guide and related topics.
We later received a tour of the beautiful office building from Ms. Loftin herself, which was a treat. I would describe the office space as extremely modern and minimalistic. I find these qualities to be beneficial when one would like to focus on work and important projects.
I was also able to listen in on two business meetings, which helped me understand the structure of the meetings. There is a space for ideas to be shared and corrections to be made. The communication was open and the meetings went smoothly. I am encouraged to attend more meetings to gain more agency experience.
In summary, I have learned a lot already, but there are many more new and exciting things to master within the company. I really like the culture already. Feel free to comment and give inspirational advice as the newest member and a recent graduate. While we haven’t had a brainstorm pizza party yet, I can wait to take a bite of Chicago’s pepperoni pizza. Feel free to comment and give inspirational advice as the newest member and a recent graduate. #L3Squad
To learn more about Kia, check her out at https://thel3agency.com/meet-us
