Five things I’ve learnt on a work placement as a Digital Marketing student

Students at the University of Huddersfield are encouraged to take a year between our second and final year of study to gain some real-world experience on a placement year. I'm incredibly lucky to be fulfilling this opportunity at BSH Home Appliances This year-long placement has been an enlightening and transformative experience. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside industry professionals, gaining practical insights and experiences, and developing valuable skills that will shape my future career and undoubtedly enhance my employability. In this blog, I would like to share some of the key lessons I’ve learned during my time on placement.

1. Seeking Opportunities

Success in my role has come from getting stuck in and seeking opportunities. Taking initiative and going the extra mile by actively seeking new projects and volunteering for assignments has broadened my skillset and showcased my abilities. This proactive approach has not only allowed me to contribute effectively and add value to the team ut also opened doors for exposure to new people, software, ways of working, etc. By seizing these opportunities and demonstrating my commitment to advancing in the role, I've seen that good performance stems from actively seeking and embracing challenges.

2. The Power of Collaboration

One of the most important lessons I've learned is that it’s okay to ask for help, and it doesn’t mean you aren’t capable or that you’re failing. Working within a supportive team with a variety of backgrounds and specialisms has taught me that great ideas emerge through collective effort. By actively participating in team meetings and engaging in open discussions, I've witnessed how working together leads to innovation.

3. Adaptability and Prioritising

I've sharpened my ability to balance tasks and deadlines through planning and organisation. I've encountered unexpected challenges that needed quick thinking, creative solutions, and adaptability to changing circumstances. These experiences have fostered resilience, resourcefulness, and the confidence to tackle problems head-on. The key is finding solutions while staying organised and managing time effectively to remain flexible with priorities.

4. Professional Communication

Effective communication is a vital skill in any professional setting. During my placement, I've learned the value of clear and concise communication, whether through emails, meetings, or presentations. I've enhanced my ability to effectively get across ideas, actively listen, and adapt my communication style to different audiences. Developing strong communication skills has enabled me to collaborate and share my projects effectively with colleagues.

5. Continuous Learning

Digital marketing is a rapidly evolving field, and staying ahead of emerging trends is essential. I've learned to stay updated with the latest advancements in technology, social media platforms, and digital marketing strategies. Adapting to new tools and platforms, exploring innovative marketing approaches, and embracing them means I’ll always be learning. These practical skills can’t always be taught at university, and I feel more prepared to work in the industry having had this experience.

To wrap things up, my placement experience has been nothing short of brilliant. The lessons I've learned, and the skills I’ve practiced will provide me with a solid foundation for my future career. As I move forward, I’ll carry these invaluable insights with me, cherishing the relationships built and the knowledge gained. I’m excited to embrace new challenges and continue growing both personally and professionally on my journey in the marketing industry.

To learn more about placement opportunities at the University of Huddersfield, please visit www.hud.ac.uk/undergraduate/placements/