Creative Industries grad on creating a path in social media management
Creative Industries alum Taylor Knight, used a combination of her undergraduate degree from The Creative School and her passion to create a path in social media management for the viral shoe brand, Vessi. After discovering a knack for social media content creation, connecting with consumer audiences, and bringing brands to life online, Knight finds passion in curating impactful digital experiences. Having gained extensive knowledge and achievements in the industry, Knight now sheds light on her experience, and offers insights in this evolving, and inter-connected realm of media.
Knight’s undergraduate degree in Creative Industries allowed her to develop artistic passion while building a strong foundation in organizational practices. With a toolbox equipped with creativity and business savvy, the corporate social media space blends artistic innovation and compelling storytelling with brand consciousness and audience engagement.
Creative Industries grad Taylor Knight
“Having so much experience working on group projects in Creative Industries has come in super handy for collaborating with teams with different perspectives,” she said. “I underestimated how important video production and storytelling would be in my career, so I’m extra grateful that my classes touched on that.”
The corporate creative
In the social media sphere, each day unfolds with a diverse array of responsibilities. From planning future content, staying on top of current events, and beginning new campaigns, Knight spends her day blending strategy, engagement, and innovation shaping Vessi's vibrant social media presence.
“I get to work closely with so many different teams, whether it’s re-posting incredible ambassador content from our Partnerships team, flagging feedback that has come up in comments and direct messages, or collaborating with our Creative team on the content creation side of things,” Knight said. “There’s always something to do or learn, so I never get bored.”
Knight snaps content of Vancouver Canucks mascot for Vessi collaboration
Her Creative Industries background has become a foundational element in navigating the social media landscape through the exploration of creative processes. The development of personal creative processes holds significant importance to creators, and the Creative Industries program empowers students to draw inspiration from unconventional sources.
“Giving myself space and permission to be creative, scroll TikTok, or stare out a window when needing inspiration has allowed me to find a creative process that works for me,” Knight explains. “Sitting at a desk doesn’t help me produce my best work, and I’m grateful that Creative Industries taught me to see business through a more creative lens.”
Knight captures content during a community cold plunge with Vessi customers, demonstrating the unconventional work settings a career in social media can take you
Advice for mastering social media
Knight advocates for an established, unique presence in the realm of social media. She sheds light on the importance of embracing individuality, and emphasizes that the journey towards a distinct online identity begins with a thoughtful examination of inspirational content.
“There is inspiration everywhere,” Knight explains. “My advice is to pay attention to what brands or creators you love are posting and start forming opinions on what you like, do not like, or what you would do differently.”
Knight adds a humorous personal touch to social media posts using popular internet memes
Mastering a relationship between technical skill and the art of storytelling is key, a proficiency in both areas positions individuals for greater success in the landscape of content creation.
“Developing a sense of how to make content more engaging or purposeful is super valuable,” she said. “Graphic design and video editing softwares like Canva and CapCut are very accessible now, and the more comfortable you are with tools like that, the better off you will be.”
The Creative School at Toronto Metropolitan University
The Creative School is a dynamic faculty that is making a difference in new, unexplored ways. Made up of Canada’s top professional schools and transdisciplinary hubs in media, communication, design and cultural industries, The Creative School offers students an unparalleled global experience in the heart of downtown Toronto.