Why Would People Think I'm A Polymer Chemist?
Posted by Nancy Grossbart
It's amazing how much you can learn about subjects that you thought you had no interest in.
I majored in anthropology in college and never used any of it after I was graduated. My career had been exclusively in the marketing, advertising and graphic design area until 1999, when we came up with the idea to manufacture Injection Molded Foam parts with this incredibly unique process.
In the past 10 years on the job, I have gained a deep understanding of 3D geometry, production, quality, testing and standards, distribution/shipping and foaming materials.
Gaining this kind of knowledge is good for business because it allows you to walk and talk the talk. And if you are the least bit verbally adept, you will find potential customers asking you questions about your background that can shock you.
I have been asked more times than I can count if I am an engineer. This question has always made me laugh. Me? An engineer? Obviously, the answer is no but I must be doing and saying something right or why would people ask.
My favorite, however, is when Ron Snyder (Croc's CEO) asked me if I was a Polymer Chemist. OMG. That one really made me roar with laughter (on the inside). We were sitting on a boat in a Miami harbor beginning our relationship with Crocs. I was trying to remain professional so I didn't laugh out loud. At this point, I guess I had learned a lot about foaming materials, enough to "convince" a highly experienced and intelligent person to believe that I knew what I was talking about.
It's a perfect example that, if you want to, you can always step out of your comfort zone to learn the most complicated things.
I'd love to hear about the job you have that you were not qualified for when you started!
