(Vickey Williams) --  Some insights overheard at Media Management Center's Digital Strategies for Media Executives seminar last week:

On entrepreneurial spirit: Discussing expectations and needs for the media workforce of tomorrow, John Lavine, dean of the Medill school, said today's journalism students have no shortage of entrepreneurial ideas. "You'd be surprised at how many students say, ‘I know exactly what I want to do, and it's mine – to do in my garage.'"  

On attitudes and skills: Rob Covey, managing editor of National Geographic Magazine Online, said his personal rule of thumb when hiring is "You hire attitude and you teach skills."

What attitude fits best in a fast-paced digital environment? "An openness and fearlessness about learning, a willingness to fearlessly tackle things, he said.

Also high on his list is collaboration, Covey said; "someone who works well in a team because teams succeed."  

On coaxing buy-in from veteran staffers: Executives charged with shepherding the digital evolution in traditional media companies sometimes assess younger employees as having a generally higher comfort level with technology and a greater willingness to try to relate to new audiences.

It's worth it to try to get at what's behind the apparent resistance of veteran employees, said Logan Molen, vice president for interactive media at the Bakersfield Californian, which has a high percentage of its newsroom contributing across platforms.

"You have to make the effort to train them in their own place," he said. Separate or off-site classes can pay dividends. "Take the time to find out what's behind their anxiousness."


What do you think? Please share your thoughts, experiences and reactions by clicking on the comment button below or by e-mailing Media Management Center at vickey-williams@northwestern.edu. Vickey Williams isDirector of Digital Workforce/Talent Development Initiative at the Media Management Center at Northwestern University.