Young Pro Corner: Khari Motayne, Vice President, Engagement Strategy, CMI Media Group
Khari Motayne, Vice President, CMI Media Group 
Khari Motayne is a Vice President at CMI Media Group, a media planning and buying company specializing in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries. He spends his day-to-day coordinating paid media buys with partners across social media, search and programmatic.
What first drew you to the advertising/marketing industry?
I graduated with a double major in business and theater. I always wanted to find a way to combine these interests and advertising seemed like a good fit because you use both sides of your brain, applying creativity and analytical thinking. Plus, I’ve always loved storytelling, orchestrating campaigns and putting together presentations.
What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned that’s helped you in your career?
Being a hand raiser is important. I make an effort to work across projects outside of my day-to-day responsibilities. Even if it’s not something within your core skillset, you can grow outside of your comfort zone and learn something new. I’ve identified mentors and like-minded colleagues with similar interests and objectives by volunteering for various projects. Taking this kind of initiative helps me build relationships with senior executives and teams I wouldn’t have had an opportunity to collaborate with otherwise.
How has community-building and networking helped you in your career? Any tips for new grads?
You are your network, in terms of work opportunities. I landed my first job in advertising through a friend I made working in sales early in my career. It’s often easier to get a job through connections, and it’s wise to build your network throughout your school and career journey.
Network internally at your school or organization, attend industry events and be an active community member in organizations like the Ad Club. Find ways to connect with others through common interests. Those like-minded connections are memorable and can serve you well in life and in your career.
What’s the best industry resource you live by (besides the Ad Club)?
I stay informed about industry news by reading Digiday and Adweek. Changes in the economy and the tech sector can impact my day-to-day work. Keeping tabs on border business trends can pave the way for productive discussions, especially with senior executives who keep close tabs on these trends. A great resource for this is the Pivot podcast by tech journalist Kara Swisher and NYU Professor Scott Galloway, who discuss tech and business trends.