Developing with Dell Technologies: Taking Advantage of the MDP, Connor's Journey After Grad School

Connor B. | Creative Retail Asset Dev. | Analyst, MDP | Syracuse, NY

Originally Published: January 17, 2023

The Marketing Development Program is designed to attract and retain top talent from Colleges, Universities, Community Colleges, and Vocational Programs, as well as Diversity & Inclusion conferences to build the marketing talent pipeline. Program members experience four 6-month rotations with different marketing teams, gaining valuable hands-on experience and exposure to various marketing disciplines. Members also get access to exclusive trainings, career coaching, executive exposure, and networking opportunities to help accelerate their success at Dell.

Currently on the Retail Creative Team, Connor reflects on his first year as a member of the Marketing Development Program:

How did you start your career with Dell Technologies and how did you get involved with the Marketing Development Program?

I actually started with Dell as a Sales intern. I had an opportunity for a full-time role but decided to go to graduate school to get my master’s degree. I had an offer at a great university that I just couldn’t pass up on. Luckily, Dell Technologies was flexible and allowed me to be considered for their Marketing Development Program the following year. Long story short, the program managers eventually helped me get recruited!  

What were your first thoughts about the program? Did you have any doubts?

I think it's been a great opportunity to network and learn about the different areas and people in Dell’s marketing organizations. I like the fact that we can try multiple different roles during our time in the program and understand what we like and dislike. When I decided to join the program, I absolutely knew I was making the right choice and have been so grateful ever since.

Please share a bit about your current role and any past roles within the program.

It's been great to be involved in this program, it’s literally a one-of-a-kind opportunity that you don’t get too often. Currently, I get to work with our internal stakeholders, external agencies, Dell Blue, and more. The Retail Creative team really gets a front seat at the table when it comes to working on campaign launches for Inspiron, Alienware, XPS, Youniverse campaigns etc. So far, my role has been so exciting!

Are you able to make an impact as a member of the program and are your inputs valued?

Absolutely! In fact, in every part of my role and within the program you are encouraged to do so. There are many areas that I can have an impact on. Even though I am only in my first year at Dell, I have been fortunate to be part of the Retail Creative team, Recruitment Committee & Corporate Comms team. My manager Chris Seaberg and my team buddy Blake Aldridge are always very helpful in encouraging me to have a voice and get outside of my comfort zone. Outside of my MDP work, I also actively participate in calls with Scott Cook's Corporate Comms team to really gather new ideas. I am looking forward to continuing to make an impact and growing with the program.

What surprised you most about the program and your time with Dell Technologies?

I was most surprised by the extracurricular committee work and the various roles we have the option to choose from. As a MDP member you’re also granted amazing access and connections to everyone at Dell Technologies. Since we’re members of the programs, everyone is so friendly and open with meeting you.

How has your experience been as a member of the Marketing Development Program?

It's been exciting! I haven't been here too long; however, I am happy to have started my career at Dell Technologies and becoming a member of this program. Everyone is authentic, smart, and caring. That really goes to show you why the MDP is such a great experience and jumpstart to your career. We are all able to learn from each other's experiences and the different teams they are on. We all come from different walks of life, parts of the world, and have different ideas which creates a really unique environment. I can always reach out to higher level managers, subject matter experts, and other employees with the connections that the program has helped me build. Sometimes I have to remind myself how lucky I am to be part of this experience. Even at the internship level, the individuals that Dell recruits are amazing. It is a special experience when you still have that warm, fuzzy, & enthusiastic feeling even seven months into your career.

Would you recommend the program to other graduates?

Without a doubt! I'd recommend any rotational program at Dell Technologies. You get to know your co-workers much better, have access to leadership and try different roles. Without this program you can be stuck in something you don't love. However, with the Marketing Development Program you actually get to work on things you enjoy while learning different areas in marketing.

How has the program contributed to your success at Dell Technologies?

It's really made me more appreciative to be at a company like Dell. The program has caused me to work harder, network more and put myself out there, and gain knowledge about the opportunities at Dell Technologies. My motivation and productivity levels have skyrocketed, and I’ve been able to accomplish more in my day.

To learn more about graduate programs at Dell, visit jobs.dell.com/graduates.