A reflection on my time as an apprentice at Good Finance

Waking up at 6 am, putting the keys to open a flagship store O2 in my bag and finally jumping on the 188 to get there was my life after graduating from Warwick. Like many young graduates, I left university wondering what was next for me. My time studying Sociology and Politics at degree level had taught me a broad range of skills, but it wasn’t until I attended a career fair on Warwick's campus that I considered exploring a career in Marketing.
The best advice I was given by one of my previous managers was to apply for an apprenticeship. I wasn’t convinced at first, as:
1.    I had already pursued higher education
2.    I didn’t know if I was allowed to apply for one
After conducting research, I found out that I could apply for an apprenticeship. I applied to study a Multi-Channel Marketing Apprenticeship with LDN Apprenticeships. It seemed like a good and practical introduction to marketing, covering a wide range of topics and alongside this, I'd be applying my learning in a real-life setting, all while being paid (which is even better)!

Here's what I've learnt during my apprenticeship:

1.    Gain a deep understanding of social investment and the sector 

Before I stepped into Good Finance, I had no knowledge of social investment at all! I was aware of the charity sector, but I had no clue about the depth and the impact being created across the sector. Social Investment Unpicked helped me understand the topic, and I used it as a guide to inform my day-to-day activities. I’m now well-versed with the sector and feel confident explaining what social investment is to anyone.

I’ve also had the privilege to travel around the UK and have met so many social enterprises and charity leaders who create positive impacts on their communities. From going on visits to see the brilliant work organisations such as  The Lighthouse Futures Trust, Seagulls Reuse, The Big Lemon and The Bevy to discussing what the role of social investment could be for leaders at networking events such as Good Finance Live, Locality Convention (where I learnt to skateboard!) and Social Enterprise UK Awards.

2.    How to adjust to corporate life, by being bold and asking questions!

This apprenticeship was my first corporate role; I worked in hospitality, which was very fast-paced and customer-facing, in comparison to an office setting. Using the transferable skills I learned during university and in my previous roles, I found that the change wasn’t so different after all. Managing my time, completing tasks by deadlines and always leaving room for flexibility became the cornerstone of my work attitude. I also found that my colleagues at Good Finance were really open to all the questions that I had about social investment, areas I needed help with and understanding the wider workings of the organisation. So be bold and ask any pressing questions, as it will help you adjust to any new environment.

3.    The world of marketing

Good Finance gave me the opportunity to put some of the theory I learnt into practice.  A campaign I was most proud of was my project on raising awareness of social investment in the Midlands. This experience has taught me how to market effectively to ensure I meet the goals of a campaign. From learning the fundamentals of marketing, how to write engaging copy and how to create content using different design software, I’ll be using all that I’ve learnt in my future roles.

4.    Build connections with your peers and a network

One of the main highlights of my time at Good Finance has been meeting my amazing peers, who have helped me along my journey here. From supporting me to develop professionally through advice and constructive feedback to the lunchtime and after-work laughter-filled chats. It’s been a real pleasure working with them all!

A highlight has been my Mutual Mentoring session with the Head of Engagement, James Westhead. The Mutual Mentoring programme combines traditional and reverse mentoring to combat the traditional hierarchy of mentoring. It was an opportunity for me to grow and seek advice from James, who has a plethora of experience in the sector, while also giving advice on whatever subject arose that he wanted my opinion on. Over six sessions, we discuss everything from job hunting, improving communications between teams and seniors, to a shared love of art. I thoroughly enjoyed every session, and James has helped me so much with my career progression.

5.    Be confident

Last but certainly not least, be confident! It can be extremely daunting to put yourself out there as an apprentice, but it's really worth it if you do. I’ve learnt that by volunteering myself up for tasks and using my voice to be heard can transform your experience as an apprentice. I found that it was helpful to remember that above all else, this was an opportunity for me to learn about marketing and myself, which in turn helped me become more confident in myself.

If you’re reading this and thinking about undergoing an apprenticeship, I would strongly recommend you do so. I’ve learnt so much, met changemakers across the UK and worked with some amazing people. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time here.