Podcast Episode # 106 - The First Month in the ED Director's Chair with Jamie Beasley

A newbie makes it through month one in rural Oklahoma

28 Aug 2023 — 2 min read

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Jamie Beasley talks with Dane Carlson about leaving law and virtual assistance to pursue a masters in economic development, the challenges of finding an entry-level job with her advanced degree, and her first month leading a rural chamber of commerce in Oklahoma. She provides tips on organization and discusses the potential for virtual assistants in economic development.

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Takeaways

Switching careers mid-career can be challenging but rewarding.
Entry-level economic development jobs can be hard to come by with an advanced degree.
Rural communities offer opportunities to take on many different roles and responsibilities.
Relationship building is key in economic development.
Strategic doing > strategic planning.
Organization is crucial - calendar and file everything.
Virtual assistants may find opportunities supporting economic developers.
The tools don't have to be complex, just put them to use.
Offload the mental clutter of economic development onto your calendar and task manager.
Persistence pays off in the job search.