Career Profile: Elizabeth Didora, Real Simple

Today’s career profile features Elizabeth Didora, a senior integrated marketing manager at Real Simple. I love Real Simple’s recipes, organization advice, interior design tips, and more, so I was so excited to get a chance to see what it’s to work there! Elizabeth also has such insightful advice that is applicable for any career path. I know you’ll like it as much as I do.

I love Real Simple! What are your responsibilities as a senior integrated marketing manager?

I am in charge of supporting my sales reps who cover the categories of fashion and entertainment. I put together marketing collateral for them, build decks based on client’s needs and wants and go out on sales calls with them. I am also in charge of putting together our signature event, Women & Success, with our Executive Director of Integrated Marketing and Vice President of Marketing. I also work closely with our marketing coordinator to make sure she has what she needs to do her job and grow in it.

What is a typical day work day like for you at Real Simple?

I am an early bird, so I get in the office at 8 am, respond to work emails, check my personal emails and organize myself for the day. The rest of the day is spent working closely on on-going campaigns, brainstorming with my sales team and working on internal marketing programs

What is your favorite thing about working at Real Simple? What has been your favorite moment so far?

My favorite thing about working at Real Simple is my team and how everyone works together in a collaborative way. I love when we break new business!

What is your favorite thing about working in the publishing industry?

It is exciting because the landscape is always changing—it is never boring!

How do you think your career path lead you to Real Simple?

I took a break from publishing to pursue other areas and realized how much I missed it. When I came back, I worked really hard to establish myself because I felt privileged to be back.

What advice do you have for people who hope to work in marketing?

Don’t feel pressured to always be “creative” and “on.” Sometimes the best ideas come when you least expect it—just always work on being the best worker with the strengths you have.

What is one thing that you wish you had known when you were starting out your career?

People can change at a moment’s notice. You might think that you have a great relationship with someone only to learn they had their own interests in mind.

What advice would you give to someone who is in the first five years of their career?

Work, work, work. Go above and beyond. Always be a coworker or teammate people can count on, but maintain a back bone.

How would you define your professional style? What are a few staples?

I pretty much always dress up. Black pants in every style—skinny, leather, trouser, fun jackets, always heels and lots of jewelry!

What is on your desk right now?

Lemon water, a variety of thin point Sharpies, my notebook, file folders, and pictures of my nieces and nephews.

Who is your mentor?

My old boss from FOOD & WINE.

What is a fun fact about you?

I grew up on Long Island and I cannot drive on the highway.

What advice do you have for other young professional women?

Work as hard as you can—it will pay off, promise.