
Nina Benning
Nina Benning, Brand Partnership Manager at TikTok.
Location: London, UK
Title: Brand Partnership Manager
Company: TikTok
Sector: Media & Advertising
Degree: Media & Communication Management
How does your usual day look like?
In the early hours, I'm filled with vibrant energy, paving the way for remarkable mornings. Between 5:30 and 6 AM, I detach from my phone, dedicating this sacred time to soul-nourishing practices—meditation, journaling, and invigorating workouts.
My go-to ensemble reflects my unique style—a sleek pair of denim jeans, comfortable sneakers, and a charming blazer that exudes effortless elegance. During my daily commute, I embrace personal growth by immersing myself in wisdom-filled books, expanding my knowledge and imagination.
By 8:30 AM, I'm fully immersed in productive rhythms, ready to embark on the day's endeavours with my cohesive team. Each week we encounter a tapestry of experiences, from meaningful client interactions and calls to delightful lunches that forge connections. In the afternoons, we dive into product updates and strategic discussions, fuelling innovation and progress. Even as the evening approaches, my passion remains ablaze. I pour my heart and soul into captivating content creation, weaving words and visuals that inspire others. Through podcasts, my voice resonates with wisdom, leaving an indelible mark on souls far and wide.
What are the things you like the most about your job?
I truly appreciate the dynamic nature of my job—it's like a captivating circus, where each day brings a new show. I don't say this with sarcasm; rather, it teaches me the value of staying open-minded and embracing the joy that comes with the work.
What truly enriches my experience is the wonderful individuals I have the privilege to collaborate with—my colleagues, clients, and partners. Together, we embark on a journey of finding innovative solutions, forging enduring business relationships, and leveraging our creativity to establish new strategies and perspectives.
One aspect that brings me immense fulfilment is the integration of my purpose into my work—coaching and fostering personal growth. Supporting and guiding others on their journey, witnessing their transformation and progress, fills my heart with the utmost joy. It's an unparalleled feeling, knowing that I can contribute to the world in this meaningful way.
What are some of the skills you utilise the most in your day-to-day?
Before stepping into a meeting, delivering a speech, or leading a team, I set powerful intentions. This practice not only instils deep confidence within me but also fills my heart with love and compassion. In every meeting I attend, I make it a priority to practice active listening. I attentively observe the body language and verbal cues of those I collaborate with, seeking to truly understand their perspectives. By being fully present in the moment, I can engage with others authentically and forge meaningful connections.
What was one of your happiest days in your career and why?
I wholeheartedly believe that true fulfilment originates from within ourselves. In my career, I've been blessed with countless joyous moments—so many vibrant days that have painted my journey with happiness. However, it's important to recognize that happiness takes on various forms, and its definition is deeply personal. For me, happiness can manifest in the simplest of things—an uplifting conversation with my cherished colleagues at the reception, the morning smile of a mentee, receiving a heartfelt recognition email from my manager, engaging in a meaningful dialogue with a client, or experiencing a transformative coaching session with a fellow colleague. Happiness resides within these seemingly small instances—they are the hidden miracles waiting to be discovered.
What was the toughest career decision you ever made?
Embracing the freedom of releasing my purpose within the realm of a corporate career. As we journey through life, we often construct vivid visions of who we should become, how we should navigate various environments, and the lofty titles we aspire to attain within organizations. However, upon discovering my authentic purpose, a profound transformation occurred within me—I was able to gracefully relinquish the weight of external and self-imposed expectations.
What is something you had to learn to become better at your job?
Patients and let go of control as in sales you can only control a certain number of circumstances.
How did you get to become a Brand Partnership Manager?
My unwavering mission is to excel in my current role, knowing that consistent pursuit of excellence will garner recognition and support.
I show up early with a positive mindset and its establishing a strong foundation for success. Embracing the power of working smart and hard, coupled with consistent delivery of high-quality work, fosters trust and garners support. Moreover, I am committed to uplifting and supporting those around me, valuing the empowerment of others and creating an environment of growth and success for all.
What's the one piece of career advice you have for anyone interested in becoming a Brand Partnership Manager?
Talent will get you in the door, but character will keep you in the room.
What's your number one productivity hack / when or how are you most effective?
My productivity hack is the Pomodoro Technique. This technique involves breaking your work into focused intervals, typically 25 minutes in length, followed by short breaks of around 5 minutes. After completing four work intervals, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes. This method helped me improve focus, prevent burnout, and enhance overall productivity.
What makes you gracefullyBOLD?
My mental fitness ☺
How do you spend your weekends or downtimes?
Meditations, Retreats, Reading, Creating, Music, in nature, meeting loved ones, learning something new.
How do you deal with stress and build resilience?
Cut down on my calendar meetings, spending time alone and journaling
What would have been your alternative career path or alternative University degree?
Psychology for sure ☺
What is the last thing you learnt?
Being grateful to have people in our lives who trigger us, allowing us to continue growing as they reflect areas in which we can still improve upon.
One word answers & quick fire round. Let's go!
Your superpower: Connecting people.
Favourite restaurant: Roka London.
Favourite fashion brand: Anine Bing.
Favourite beauty product: Chanel CC cream.
Favourite perfume: Creed-Aventus.
Book recommendation: What I know for sure by Oprah Winfrey .
Next holiday destination: Mykonos.
Your hobby: Reading and writing.
Who inspires you: People who change the world.
Thank you Nina for sharing your journey & wisdom with us!
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