Day 475 - A Pre-Holiday Update

Day: 475
Jobs applied for today: 0
Jobs heard back from: 0
Jobs applied for since starting this blog: 8

Source: baxterpersonnel.co.uk

Well, here we are. Two days before Christmas, and I have not heard back from any of the job applications I have put in. However, I just wanted to give a quick update because in the last week, although quiet on here (busy with preparing for Christmas!), I have been searching still. I have looked on job listing sites, a Twitter feed and checking my e-mails.

I also got a generic e-mail from recruiters saying to send in an updated CV for the new year. I did this, but no acknowledgement was given of receiving this.

That brings me to something that really bugs me. Out of all the jobs I apply for and CV's I send to recruiters, I only hear back from a small percentage (as you can see since I started this blog I have heard from nobody actually).

While some positions may have a hefty amount of people applying for it, I think an e-mail back saying you have been unsuccessful would be better than no e-mail at all. I have even rang a company once to follow up with an application, to which they told me it would be best sending them an e-mail. I did and received no response still. 

Some job descriptions will, ahead of time, post "Due to the expected number of applications received, assume you have not been successful if you have not heard from us in [any amount of time here]." That's fair enough, but some others I think would be nice to hear from.

Am I wrong in thinking this? Should I be doing more to hear back from companies/recruiters? Or is a response, even a generic one, just polite? Please send me your thoughts on this! You can contact me through e-mail, Twitter, or LinkedIn. You can also comment below.

While it definitely looks like I will not be getting my job for Christmas, I still hope to be relaxing a little bit, and hope you get to as well! All the best!

Day 469 - Perseverance will pay off

Day: 469
Jobs applied for today: 1
Jobs heard back from:  0
Jobs applied for since starting this blog: 7

Source: keepcalm -o-matic.co.uk

So today I had a pretty decent job e-mailed through today by UKStaffSearch so I was pleased I had found something new and so fitting to apply for today! Not that I am hoping that I don't hear back from others (as you can see, hardly anybody gets back to me even with a "no"), but this job seems so good for me so fingers crossed!

If all else fails, I heard there is a new job opening at Chelsea!

Joking aside, I want to share this story about a young man named Tom who applied for 950 jobs before securing a permanent role with Asda. That's right...950 and over the course of 60 months! This is why I wanted to bring up perseverance. Tom said in the article: "I never gave up, but all those rejections really knocked my confidence." I know how you feel Tom and many others too judging by the comments left, but good on you for not giving up! This is exactly what I intend to do. Some days look really bad but there is a job out there that has my name all over it (as always, if you think that is with your company, let's have a chat about it!).

I know I have not applied for 950 positions yet although I am sure I am well on my way. I have started counting how many applications I have sent since starting this blog. Let's hope the number stops growing soon!

Day 468 - Hello...is it Bri you're looking for?

Day: 468
Jobs applied for today: 0
Jobs heard back from today: 0


It's been a rough one the last couple of days! I've not found anything suitable to apply for, even after going on actual company sites to see their own listings rather than just relying on job listing sites - is this the beginning of the end for 2015? Oh don't get me wrong, there are a few digital marketing jobs out there, but I found that many of them are for applicants with an abundance of experience!

Which brings me to a point: I read a tweet from a sport recruitment page that read: "What's the most important feature when looking to start a sports career? Ambition? Qualifications? Experience? All of the above?"

I thought about it and realised if you are starting out your sports career, shouldn't the most important factor be ambition? I find that experience is hard to come by if all jobs want someone with experience. May be this is why I am still waiting for my big break. I can proudly say I have ambition though, as well as educational qualifications. If you missed them, you can have a look at my educational background here. And if you think I might be what your company is looking for, contact me!

Of course, feel free to disagree with me! What do you think is the most important feature when looking to start a career?

Source: GlassDoor.com

Day 466 - #HireBri

Day: 466
Jobs applied for today: 2
Jobs heard back from today: 0

I hope everyone had a nice weekend! the weather here wasn't so nice but I was able to enjoy a bit of time away from job hunting to spend time with friends. It was a nice change!

Seeing as it is Monday, I have not had much luck finding any new jobs listed, but managed to find two that I seemed suitable for. As we are in the last week before Christmas week, I fear I may not be hearing much back at all, which is worrying as I was hoping for a little bit of hope heading into the holiday!

Today I started the fourth course out of my five course Social Media Marketing specialization! It covers content, advertising and social IMC. I might have this finished before Christmas, which will give me a nice break before the next and final course begins in January. I hope this improves my employability, because I will be scratching my head as to what to do next if not!

A couple months ago, I attended a seminar put on my recruiters about what marketing skills are currently most desired. I felt I strongly had the skill sets presented and talked about, which was great! I left their feeling confident I could bring something fresh to the right company, however, two months later, ,I am still searching. As always, drop me an e-mail if you wish to discuss how I can utilise these desired skills in your business!

All I want for Christmas is...a jumpstart into my career!

Image source: http://www.keepcalmstudio.com/

Day: 463

Jobs applied for today: 4

Jobs heard back from today: 0

Today I actually found four jobs to apply for, which is unusual for me (I normally find 1-2/day). Makes a nice change going into the weekend. I don't normally apply for jobs on the weekend because nothing new is posted, but if I get an email alert to something right for me, I will go ahead and send through my CV!

Today I got an e-mail from a recruitment office wishing me a Merry Christmas and best of luck in my job search in the new year. Really?! It is December 11th! I know things get quiet over the holidays but I am trying to hold on hope that I hear something before Christmas because let's face it, I would feel much better going into the holidays with job prospects lined up! Despite it all, I will keep trying. I notice many closing dates are not til after the new year now, which is fine...but I will keep going because you never know! There's a job involving digital media/marketing and social media out there that is perfect for me. If you think it might be with your company, let's have a chat! 

Hope everyone has a fantastic weekend ahead.

10 reasons why your company should hire me!

Still not convinced I am the right person for your company? Here are 10 reasons why I would be a great fit working as part of a digital media/marketing team!

1. I'm a team player - I am happy working with great people in a team. I feel everyone has their own strengths they can bring to the table to get quality work done.

2. ...but I can also be independent - In addition to working with a team, I am just as content working alone. I am very self-disciplined, can set myself deadlines, and I always find something to work on.

3. Deadlines - Media and marketing are always about deadlines. Timing needs to be spot on to produce effective work. This is something I understand completely and have no problem working to a specific deadline.

4. Continuing professional development - The only thing constant in digital marketing is change. New media platforms change all the time and it is a marketer's responsibility to stay on top of it in effort of continuing to produce effective work. I aim to do just that! This may include attending classes, conferences and seminars, networking with others in the field and reading up on the latest developments. Never stop learning!

Image Source: http://bit.ly/1Nedssl

5. Organised - One of my greatest attributes is how organised I can be. I have folders and USBs for everything! I believe being organised makes work less stressful for you and your colleagues and obviously looks good to your target audience.

6. Research skills - My Master of Philosophy degree required strict research. I was able to develop crucial research skills that can be applied in a business setting. this includes using analytics to learn more about target markets and then relaying findings to colleagues and partners.

7. I work well under pressure - Media/Marketing can be a very demanding position, whether you are developing new content with strict deadlines or working with active consumers as the link between them and the company, I am confident I can continue produce quality work under the many demands that come with digital marketing!

8. Confident - I am confident in giving talks and presentations to colleagues and partners, since it is important to keep everyone updated on the company's progress.

9. Ambitious - Not only do I want to succeed in what I do and go far in the marketing industry, I want the company I work for to do the same! I aim to be part of a team that sets the mark for others.

10. Adaptable - The digital media scene changes constantly and you have to be able to try new things to connect with your target audience. I am comfortable with staying on top of the latest digital platforms being used by target markets and adapting content to that specific platform, rather than the same content across multi-platforms.


**BONUS - I love to bake...and have been known to frequently bring in cakes, pies and muffins to work!

FAQs

I am obviously really, really wanting some work right now! But to save companies some trouble, here are a few questions I usually get asked in application processes/interviews anyways!

Q: What area are you in and how far are you willing to travel?
A: I am in the Greater Manchester area, but I am willing to travel around the North West for a position I know I would excel in.

Q: What's the catch?
A: No catch! I am able to work at any company with no limitations!

Q: What are you salary requirements?
A: I am happy to discuss this, along with my qualifications. Just send me an e-mail!

Q: Have you signed up for Indeed/Reed/CV Library/Any Job Search Website Here?
A: Yes, yes, and yes. I have several emails weekly with the latest job alerts, and I still do a manual search (just in case) daily!

Q: Are you only looking to get into sport?
A: Although my MPhil thesis focuses greatly on football, many of the new responsibilities clubs have with new media and their fans can be applied to any sector with their target market! I am also currently taking a Social Media Marketing specialization which focuses on businesses in general. I would feel comfortable working in most sectors so please, don't let that put you off!

Q: What is it you want to do exactly?
A: My MPhil degree really focused on the uses of new media and new responsibilities that have come with is as fans (consumers) have become more active in wanting to feel part of the club (company). I would thrive in a digital marketing environment or as a customer/fan liaison role where I can help strengthen relationships and maintain healthy ones. This would include using new media and social media, and creating content to connect with target audiences.

Q: What are your skills?
A: Social media marketing, creating content, digital media, fan/customer engagement, event planning. These are skills acquired through work experiences and education. I am still looking for that breakthrough position though to be able to utilise and develop them better, and I am always keen on further professional development as the digital media side grows. If you think my skills are something your company could be looking for, please contact me (see below)!

Q: Have you tried recruiters?
A: Yes! And I will continue this route as well until I get that start in my career.

Q: How can I get in contact?
A: You can connect with me on Twitter, LinkedIn or E-mail.

My Experiences

While education is very important, I did my best to gain vital experience whilst studying so I can use the skills I have learned in the classroom, as well as gain new ones. My experiences have been amazing, and I am sure the skills I have gained working on various projects would prove to be vital in your team!

Everton Football Club January 2013 – October 2015

Liverpool, UK

Social Inclusion Coach

My role included working alongside Everton in the Community’s “Pass on the Memories” programme that works with those living with dementia and “Stand Together”, a new programme designed to help reduce social isolation in older people. The duties included:

• ·         Planning public events, from research, venue hire, booking entertainment and arranging special guests and local organisations for information stalls.
• ·         Running the project’s social media pages to promote the programme as well as keep participants and partners up to date with the events of the programme.
• ·         Planning (arranging appropriate activities, speakers and trips) and delivering a programme for those diagnosed with dementia and their carers.
• ·         Evaluating the impact of the projects and analysing other various data.
• ·         Delivering Dementia Friends sessions to employees of the club to work towards becoming the first “Dementia Friendly” stadium, as well as to members of the public to contribute to a wider understanding.
• ·         Working alongside other community groups to create effective strategies in raising awareness, such as the Liverpool Dementia Action Alliance.

Liverpool Hope University September 2010 – July 2015

Liverpool, UK

Student Ambassador

Alongside my studies, I worked with the University’s Reprographics/Media Services department, which included:

• ·         Various printing and designing for internal and external personal and marketing needs.
• ·         Administration work, including the handling of departmental financial data.
• ·         Serving customers in the University shop, tidying the shop, cashing up and restocking as needed.
• ·         In addition, I have performed front desk duties, including student post and secretarial work.
• ·         I have also worked alongside incoming international students as a mentor during their time in Liverpool, including inductions and planning cultural events.

 ___

While studying, I gained work experience in fan engagement and journalism with Everton Football Club, Liverpool Football Club and the Liverpool Echo. The experiences allowed me to develop new skills I couldn't get strictly in a classroom, as well as new found confidence. They allowed me to create blogs and articles that were published. I really enjoyed myself during my work experiences! Below is a bit more detail into my responsibilities:

Everton Football Club  August 2014 – November 2014

Liverpool, UK

Work Experience as Marketing and Communications Assistant

I was given the opportunity to assist in the Marketing and Communications department at Everton on a volunteer level. My projects have included:

• ·         Assisting the Supporter Liaison Officer with fans’ forums.
• ·         Planning an upcoming open training day.
• ·         Assisting in the development of the club’s Away Fan Initiative for the 2014/15 season. This has involved researching ideas and appropriate away venues for travelling supporters, and then assisting in coordinating the away trip.

Liverpool Echo March 12, 2012 – March 16, 2012

Liverpool, UK

Work Experience in Journalism

I was involved with:

• ·         General newsgathering for local stories for daily publication, including producing stories in education and sport.
• ·         Observing interviews and attended a pre-match football press conference.

Liverpool Football Club May 3, 2011 – May 13, 2011

Liverpool, UK

Work Experience in Journalism

·         My main focus was on digital media and to assist in the promotion of the club’s own social media site. To do this, I produced a blog for the club to put on social media.

·         I also produced nine stories relating to the club published on the official website.

Don't forget you always connect with me via LinkedIn!

My Education

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." - Nelson Mandela

My education is something I have worked very hard at, and the hard work has certainly paid off. An in-depth look at my studies can be found here, but I have briefly outlined my academic achievements below:

Liverpool Hope University 2012 – 2015

Liverpool, England

Master of Philosophy in Football and Media Relationships

·         Degree awarded December 2015.

• ·         Studies include research into past and existing relationships between media and football and how the changes, if any, are affecting the industries. This looked at expectations of the club for the media and media partners and vice versa, as well as expectations of the now ‘active’ fans through new media.
• ·         It also involves how clubs use their own media (social media, website, applications, etc) to promote their brand and to develop a relationship with fans.
• ·         A strong focus was made on football clubs communicating directly with their fans and local communities and the importance of fan engagement.
• ·         Student Representative on Politics, History, Media & Communications Departmental Review.

Liverpool Hope University 2009 - 2012

Liverpool, England

BA with Honours in Media Studies (2:1)

• Including Print/Broadcast Journalism, Marketing and PR and Political Communications.
• Student Liaison/Representative for Media Students for all three years.

St Petersburg College 2004 - 2009

St Petersburg, Florida, USA

Associate in Arts Degree

Part-time

In addition to my studies at university, I aim to continue my professional development in this constantly changing sector. Below demonstrates my accomplishments in this:

Northwestern University November 2015-February 2016 (Projected end date)

Social Media Marketing Specialization Certificate

MOOC consisting of five courses to further develop skills in Social Media Marketing, including:

• ·         How to develop social strategies using effective methodologies
• ·         Building strong relationships with target audiences and partners
• ·         Content, advertising and social IMC     

Wharton, University of Pennsylvania (via Coursera) November 2015
Introduction to Marketing

Using a massive open online course (via Coursera), I have been able to complete additional courses to further develop and learn new skills through top Universities and also stay up to date on the latest techniques used in the industry. Skills acquired through Introduction to Marketing include: Building strong brands, identifying target markets and aspects of promotion.

You can always look at my LinkedIn page for more information!

About Me!

I am originally from America (Sunny Florida, to be exact!) but now living in the North West area of England. Before taking the jump overseas, I completed an Associate's Degree with St. Petersburg College in my hometown. This degree is quite general and covered everything from sciences and mathematics to ethics and humanities. As much as I love where I am from, it's a big world out there, and felt a new setting for my Bachelor's degree would be an adventure.

I travelled to the UK originally over six years ago to study at Liverpool Hope University for a BA (Hons) in Media Studies. I achieved this with a 2:1 in 2012. My studies included journalism (print and broadcast), creating a magazine, blogs and public relations. I went on to do an M.Phil (Master of Philosophy, postgraduate research) degree in Football and Media Relationships. My research for this degree has focused greatly on how football clubs communicate with their supporters and partners in the modern digital age. This degree was awarded in December 2015.

Image Source: http://bit.ly/1Nef1GC

I chose to go into Media/Marketing for many reasons. First of all I love how there never seems to be a dull moment. There is always something new developing, and I find it quite exciting to be part of something new. I also love working with people and being the link between a company and their consumers using social media as a tool. My career goals include working in a role where I can use the skills I obtained during my intense studies and work experiences in connecting the company with the wider community.

There is a lot more to me than just all this studying! I also love football (soccer), all things Disney, to bake/cook, travel to places of historical significance, and generally have a laugh with my closest friends! I also like to volunteer when possible. I am currently a Dementia Friend Champion through the Alzheimer's Society, giving short information sessions to community groups to help erase the stigma surrounding Dementia as well as help promote a happy, healthy way of life for those living with the disease.

"Hire me!"

Let's start off with a confession: As of writing this, there have been 462 days since I have been looking for a full-time job in digital marketing.

I thought I would start my job hunt whilst still completing my MPhil degree because let's be honest, the job market is brutal! I think after still being on the job hunt for 462 days, I can comfortably say that. Now that I have completed my degree, I am more desperate for full-time work in my field than ever! 

I have signed up for all the job alerts, tried recruitment offices, stay involved on LinkedIn, attend seminars and network, network, network...but my luck has come up a bit short! I've decided it's time to be a bit more aggressive when it comes to getting my name out there!

I will be documenting my job hunt and listing why your company should hire me for digital marketing!

Please feel free to get in contact via LinkedIn, Twitter, or E-mail!

Source: http://worldofdtcmarketing.com/the-real-reason-big-pharma-is-in-trouble/working-in-the-industry/attachment/hire-me-writing-service/