Deacon Spotlight: Erin Miller Weibel

Erin Miller Weibel (BA 2006 in Communication, Minors in Journalism & Spanish)

Yahoo, VP Corporate Communications in New York, NY

Tell us about your job. What are you currently working on?

I started two months ago (March 2024) at Yahoo leading corporate communications. In this role, I am across everything from shaping our corporate narrative, to enhancing our brand reputation, and fostering strong relationships with external stakeholders.

What key personal and/or career experiences led you to where you are today?

I think one key experience that was instrumental in me finding my path in communications was my second role out of Wake, as a PR Coordinator at Conde Nast. It was the a-ha moment where I found work I thoroughly enjoyed, was motivated by, and was learning a ton. It really helped me identify that PR, specifically in media (and eventually tech) was where I wanted to spend my time.

What is the most challenging aspect of your job? How do you navigate that challenge?

The most challenging aspect of my job is often finding enough hours in the day! Prioritization is key.

What advice would you give to Wake Forest graduates about developing their personal life habits after college (finances, health, values, work/life balance)?

I would advise graduates to look for a job and career that aligns with your values to start. If you do that, and follow a path that you are passionate about, the rest will fall into place.

We know that relationships are important for any kind of development. How do you build and maintain your network?

Relationships have been critical for my career. A friend once told me to find at least one day a month to get coffee with someone in your professional network to maintain those connections. Almost every job I’ve had since my first one has been a result of a past relationship I’ve fostered in my career. Whether it’s simply adding someone on LinkedIn and staying in touch that way, or doing regular personalized check-ins – it all helps keep you top of mind.

Tell us about your mentoring relationships. What impact have these relationships had on your career and life?

I have learned a lot through mentoring and being mentored. I am eternally grateful for those managers and leaders that I’ve had the pleasure of working with – and have always prioritized staying in touch. The community within the communications field is very small – and whether they can offer advice on a potential employer or give me guidance on a reporter/editor/producer they’ve worked with, those connections are invaluable.

What advice would you give to current Wake Forest students and/or young alumni who are interested in working in your industry?

I would advise them to set up those coffees and not be afraid to reach out to someone who is at a company or in a role that they desire. You never know where it can lead, and especially in communications, networking is incredibly important.

What’s next for your career? What future goals or plans are you pursuing?

I just started at Yahoo, so for right now, I’m excited to continue sinking my teeth in at a company that is truly in a period of transformation and having the chance to tell that story.

Story published in May 2024. For current updates on Erin’s career path, visit her Linkedin.