GCSC

Jayne Elford

Company: Shopify
Position: Account Executive

Why did you get involved with the GCSC?

I got involved with the GCSC through a business course I was taking at University of Waterloo. Submitting a video to the first round of the competition was our first class assignment. I picked a topic that resonated with me and that felt important to my journey. I made it through to the next round of the GCSC (but didn't receive a great mark on the assignment)!

How did the GCSC help you evolve as a professional?

During the final round of the GCSC in Toronto I pitched on behalf of Softchoice. In my room there was a panel of 5 judges, one of which was from Shopify. This judge gave me great feedback, spoke with clarity, and motivated me to continue to pursue a Sales path. Fast forward a couple of months and I’m looking on LinkedIn for a job. I came across a number of Shopify roles, applied to a few and didn't think much more about it — until I heard back. The GCSC came up in each of my interview rounds with Shopify (and multiple other companies) and I ended up with 4 job offers to start immediately upon graduation.

What advice do you have for GCSC competitors?

Take it seriously and know that preparation is power. Working with my coach Jeremiah Walsh, I got far more out of the Competition than I ever expected and he remains a mentor of mine. The GCSC creates the opportunity to be in front of some of the best in the industry and to bring your unique style to each video and meeting. Treat it with the respect it deserves and be yourself.