What degree did you study?
MA (hons) Marketing and Management - Heriot Watt University.
Did university prepare you for your career?
University gave me more than a degree. Space to grow as my own person, develop responsibility and gaining those all essential communication skills that you depend on every day. After travelling 300 miles away from home to live with 700 people I'd never met before, the first day in a new job is a doddle in comparison. I was very shy before going to uni and the experience has made me a strong independent person able to handle pressure and have a conversation with anyone!
What were your aspirations when leaving University?
I was eager to get into the Advertising Industry; however I knew that the competition for placements was high so I kept my options open and built up my experience over the summer after graduation working as an account assistant for a small marketing firm.
What salary expectations did you have?
I think University leads you into a false sense of security in believing you will start on a salary of £18,000 - £20,000.
Were you interested in staying in Scotland?
Definitely
Are you still keen to stay in Scotland?
I am not sure -working in search engine optimisation there are far more opportunities abroad. However currently working where I am now the opportunity to help grow and develop the business is huge, so I am hoping my career will grow with it.
What types of jobs did you apply for?
Junior PR positions and events management.
How many did you apply for?
Too many. It is really difficult when you are unsure of the industry you want to work in.
How successful were you?
Until I met GfG I was unsuccessful in understanding what I was suited to. I normally made it to the first round of interviews which at least gave me some interview practice.
How did you hear of GfG?
Through my friends. A couple of my friend were placed through GfG and highly recommended their service to graduates.
How did GfG help and support you?
The personal support I was given by GfG was excellent. Creating the right CV, interview advice and feedback all helped me to start my career. GfG encouraged me to be open minded about different opportunities available especially in growth companies.
Was joining the company what you expected?
It exceeded my expectations of the involvement and autonomy that I would be given at my level.
What are your career aspirations?
I am keen to continue growing my career in the search engine marking industry.
What words of advice would you offer to graduates looking for start their career?
Persevere and be open minded. If you have a plan that is great but be prepared to adjust it slightly. You will get there eventually but you may have to go about it differently to your original plan, either way you will always be gaining valuable experience.
If you are even slightly interested in a job that is advertised, request an application pack. I know lots of people who have judged not to apply for a job on the basis of the advert or the pay scale which hasn’t always been representative of the actual job. If you are unsure of anything, phone the company and ask questions about the role and expectations.
Sell yourself, make sure you make it very clear how you meet the competencies the company has requested. Ask a friend to answer the questions with you, they will always find it easier to say nice things about you that you may be too shy too. Research the role on the internet and any other way you can, if you know someone in the job etc it will help you on the day if you have some background additional knowledge. On the day, give yourself plenty of time and show confidence.
How could we improve our service to Graduates?
Continue providing a personal support service to graduates starting their career.
