Navigating the Tides: My Account Management Journey at RFH

Written by: Hope Tumbaga, Account Intern

 

When Challenges Become Opportunities 

Before joining Razorfish Health as an account management intern, I felt a blend of eagerness and apprehension. With a background in Healthcare Administration and pursuing my degree in Public Health, I had always been drawn to the complexities and dynamism of health advertising. Though the theoretical knowledge I had acquired through my college courses had equipped me with a foundational understanding of marketing strategies and client engagement, I was seeking a real-world application that would challenge these concepts and expand my horizons.

 The opportunity to intern at RFH came as a beacon of growth—a chance to immerse myself in the world I had studied but had yet to experience firsthand. As I walked through the doors on my first day, my expectations were a mix of hope for mentorship and fear of the unknown challenges that lay ahead. The journey that unfolded was both exhilarating and daunting, providing me with a firsthand view and active role in the intricate dance of client relations and strategic executions.

Mastering the Art of Client Relationships

Navigating client relationships is an art form that requires more than just a good pitch. It demands empathy, precision, and proactive communication. In one of my first assignments, I was tasked with leading a client call. Initially overwhelmed, I relied on my mentors at RFH and prepared meticulously. The result? A client who felt heard and supported, and a project that moved forward smoothly. This experience taught me that the cornerstone of effective account management is not just understanding the client's needs but anticipating them.

Strategic Planning: From Theory to Practice 

Strategic planning at RFH isn’t just about following a template; it’s about crafting a narrative that aligns with our clients' goals while pushing creative boundaries. During a major campaign planning session, I applied SWOT analysis—a concept I learned in school—in real time to help pivot our strategy. This not only enhanced the campaign's direction but also solidified my role as a strategic thinker within the team. 

Overcoming Obstacles With Team Collaboration 

No journey is without its storms, and in account management, these often come in the form of tight deadlines and shifting project scopes. One memorable challenge was when a project required a complete overhaul two days before the deadline. The team's response? A brainstorming session that lasted into the night, fueled by coffee and creativity. Witnessing the dedication and agility of my team was inspiring. Together, we delivered a product that was not only timely but exceeded client expectations.

Embarking on Future Voyages 

As my internship at RFH progresses, the lessons I've learned are numerous. Each task, meeting, and feedback session has been a step towards understanding the vast landscape of health advertising. More importantly, these experiences have taught me that adaptability, continuous learning, and teamwork are not just valuable skills but essential traits for anyone looking to make a mark in this industry.

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Are you just graduating college? Are you wanting to make a career change? Or maybe you’re looking for a place to start your career? Check out our open roles to see if we have something that sounds like you. We know you are not your resume, we understand you are not your work, and we respect that you are so much more than a job description. You are you. So come be you and do you with us.

Devon Stewart