Socium Spotlight: Heather Liles

You’ve probably heard us say that people aren’t Socium’s most important asset; the right people are Socium’s most important asset. That’s why we started our Socium Spotlight series, where we shine a light on the diverse and unique personalities that make up the Socium team.

For this month’s Socium Spotlight, we’re excited to feature our Learning and Development Manager, Heather Liles!

Looking back on your first day at Socium, how did your expectations compare to the reality of your role?
I have the great privilege of being Socium’s first L&D employee. At first, I wasn’t sure what Socium’s learning culture would be like without any previous formal learning department, but I soon discovered informal knowledge sharing was already happening everywhere! The team takes initiative to help others learn—it’s amazing!

What made you choose this career path?
After teaching for 5 years, I knew I still wanted to do something around learning. Learning and development has given me the opportunity to support my peers in their career and personal growth. It also allows me to make a positive impact on the entire organization.

What has your time at Socium taught you about the marketing/advertising industry?
I’m a learning expert, not a marketing expert so I’ve learned a lot! One thing I’ve noticed is this industry is constantly shifting so being flexible and creative is key.

What drew you to Socium?
The culture! When reviewing the Socium website, I loved seeing everyone’s face on the team page and was even more pleased with the warmth and friendliness during my interview process. The people here are super smart and super collaborative and it makes for a great culture.

What made Socium stand out when you were looking for your next adventure?
A net new role in building out a L&D framework and department was super exciting for me. I love being a part of the beginning conversations of setting up the foundation for a successful framework.

Finish this sentence: ‘You can learn a lot about Socium by looking at its ___.’
Slack conversations. From hot takes, travel tips, books, and random nonsense, our Slack conversations are always a blast and make me feel connected to my team even though I’m remote.

What’s the best lifestyle benefit of working at Socium?
The trust and flexibility. I have a 4 year old and a puppy, so sometimes that means I have to do errands and things during the work day. I can be flexible because I’m trusted to do what I need to do in my personal life and still get my work done.

What’s your favorite job perk that Socium offers?
Sending sweets on your birthday. Makes me feel special 🙂

What did you do before coming to Socium?
I did learning and development for an art museum in Northwest Arkansas and a mobile gaming company based out of Austin.

Have you always wanted to work in the marketing/advertising industry? Why or why not?
I have never thought about working in the marketing industry but my type of work gives me the opportunity to work in all kinds of industries. It has been super interesting to learn all that goes into the marketing/advertising space.

What did you use to daydream about being when you grew up?
I wanted to be an actress or a teacher.

What’s your most memorable client win?
My clients are my teammates, peers, and leaders. Anytime they walk away from a training with something they can use in their day-to-day, I consider it a win.

What do you do outside of work?
I like to play video games, run, read, watch real housewives, and make arts and crafts.

If you could travel anywhere right now, where would you go?
Hawaii!

Cats or dogs (or other!)?
All the animals.

If you could tell you younger self one thing, what would it be?
Don’t settle for less.

How do you like your coffee or tea?
I like my coffee with some sugar and half & half.

What has been your favorite event/happy hour at Socium?
I loved playing shuffleboard in Brooklyn during our Summer event!

What did you receive as your favorite food when you joined the Socium team?
Ruffles chips.
 

Thank you, Heather, for working with us on this month’s Socium Spotlight!

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