I Got Hired: Partnerships and Marketing Executive

Posted on: 30 June 2023 by Samantha Riella in Graduate stories

Molly Hardwick is a BA English graduate now working as a Partnerships and Marketing Executive at The Marketing Lounge Partnership.

How did you get to where you are now?

A lot of hard work! After University, I knew I was seeking a creative role with the opportunity to write and create content. I began by creating my own experience and launching an online blog, creating regular website content with written articles and keeping a keen eye on branding/social media trends. I also did a few freelance jobs, writing content for various publications. After a while, I was approached on LinkedIn by a recruiter at my current role who had seen my content online and was keen to introduce a job opportunity in marketing.

What has been your best experience as part of your role?

As part of my role, I get to see the full process of a brand partnership. From the initial conversations and pitches to the creation of the website content, I'm fully involved. Different clients and different partners mean no two projects are the same! I also support with internal marketing for my company, with blog and social posts. Most importantly, I have the opportunity to learn and grow every day.

What has been the most challenging part of your graduate journey?   

The most challenging part was feeling as though nothing would ever fall into place. Immediately post-grad, I felt quite deflated as I'd enjoyed my course so much - it didn't feel as though any job out there would allow me to be as inspired and creative as my degree did. I was back and forth, not knowing which path to take, but I overcame the fear of starting in a new industry. It certainly paid off!

What are your top tips for other students and graduates?   

1. Current students, make the most of your time at University! Not only by enjoying every minute, but by growing your network too! If I could go back, I'd ask my tutors and staff about their career journeys and really get a feel of what opportunities might be out there.

2. Don't be afraid to take risks. Even if they don't pay off, you can say you've tried. There's plenty of time to get it right, and you might even surprise yourself!

3. Be resilient, don't give up. I was rejected from every internship I applied for, and I'll probably be rejected again in future! The most important thing is to carry on improving, give it a little time, and you never know what's around the corner.