Placement Experience: Marketing Assistant - The Marketing Junction- Charlie Ward -

What motivated you to pursue an optional placement year?

I was motivated by the opportunity to gain practical experience and apply the theoretical knowledge from my studies in a real-world setting. I wanted to enhance my skill set, build my professional network, and gain insights into the day-to-day workings of a marketing role. Additionally, I saw it as a chance to test my interest in digital marketing, ensuring that I was pursuing a career path I was passionate about.

How many placement applications did you make? 

Applying for placement roles was a structured but challenging process. I applied to around 20-30 roles, ensuring each application was tailored to the specific company and role requirements. I created a system to track deadlines, application statuses, and feedback. I also sought support from my university’s placement team for CV and cover letter reviews.

What tips would you give to students about balancing placement applications with university studies?

Planning and time management are key. I scheduled specific blocks of time each week to focus on applications, so they didn’t interfere with my coursework. Breaking down the application process into smaller steps—researching companies, tailoring CVs, and preparing for interviews—helped me stay organized. Starting early also reduced the pressure and gave me more time to prepare high-quality applications.

How did you adjust to a new workplace environment, and what resources or support helped you during this transition?

Adjusting to the workplace required open-mindedness and proactive communication. I took time to understand the company culture and processes by observing colleagues and asking questions. Weekly zoom check-ins with my manager provided clarity on expectations and priorities. Additionally, I benefited from online resources and training sessions that helped me improve my technical and soft skills, such as time management and professional communication with clients.

Any challenges have you faced during your placement, and how have you overcome them?

One significant challenge was managing multiple client accounts simultaneously while meeting tight deadlines. To overcome this, I developed a detailed organizational system using project management tools to prioritize tasks and ensure deadlines were met. Regular communication with clients and team members also helped prevent misunderstandings and allowed me to adapt quickly to changing requirements

What has been the most rewarding part of your placement and why?

The most rewarding part has been seeing the direct impact of my work on clients' engagement and brand visibility. For example, creating a tailored social media strategy for a client led to a measurable increase in their follower count and customer interactions. This tangible result reinforced my passion for marketing and demonstrated the value of creativity and data-driven decision-making.

Has your placement experience influenced your perspective on your chosen career path or field of study?

Absolutely. My placement reinforced my interest in digital marketing, but it also opened my eyes to the importance of adaptability and innovation in the field. Working on diverse projects showed me how data and creativity intersect, and it inspired me to explore areas like marketing innovation and ethical data use further in my studies and future career.

Would you recommend the placement year to other students?

Definitely. A placement year provides invaluable real-world experience that enhances both your skills and your CV. For students considering it, my advice would be to research roles thoroughly and approach the year with an open mind. Take every opportunity to learn and network, as these experiences will not only prepare you for your final year but also give you a competitive edge when entering the job market.

Would you recommend the placement year to other students?

Definitely. A placement year provides invaluable real-world experience that enhances both your skills and your CV. For students considering it, my advice would be to research roles thoroughly and approach the year with an open mind. Take every opportunity to learn and network, as these experiences will not only prepare you for your final year but also give you a competitive edge when entering the job market.