Katherine completed an apprenticeship with the PRCA last year and is currently a junior account executive at B2B PR agency Skout, working herself up the career ladder.
Tell us a bit about yourself, background and your current role
I’m a junior account executive at Skout PR based in Macclesfield. I joined the company as an apprentice in 2015 straight after ‘A’ levels, successfully qualifying with a level 4 diploma in public relations last year.
My role involves office admin, social media management, writing, and building relationships with the media and clients. I’m still learning and working in an environment that supports this is really important to me as I want to continue learning and developing my skills as much as possible.
Did you ever sit down and plan your career?
I always knew I wanted to do something creative, which involved working with the media. I did try and plan what I wanted to do however I kept changing my mind. When I found PR it seemed to incorporate everything I found interesting and I knew that was the career I wanted to choose.
Have you faced any challenges along the way? How did you deal with them?
I’ve faced a few challenges along with way. When I was looking for an apprenticeship in 2014 they weren’t seen as the ‘thing to do’ and quite a few people didn’t understand why I wasn’t going to university and viewed it as a mistake. This just made me want to pursue an apprenticeship even more and it’s the best decision I’ve ever made, and it’s great to see them starting to get a higher profile and the recognition they deserve as an entry point into lots of different careers.
I’ve never been amazing at English, so working in an industry where writing is an important skill felt quite daunting. But working with people who help and support you really makes a difference. I was never confident in my writing at school but now I write press releases, blogs and case studies for big companies. Working hard and ignoring negativity is really important.
Do you have a typical workday? How does you start your day and how does it end?
Public relations is such a fast paced industry and that’s what I really like about it, sometimes your whole day can completely change from what you had planned so I wouldn’t say I have a typical workday.
How do you feel about mentoring? Have you ever had a mentor or do you mentor anyone?
As an apprentice having a strong mentor is really important. Having someone who can offer guidance and support is vital for progression. At Skout I’ve been lucky enough to have five mentors, who are always offering support and advice, and I know if I’m ever unsure I can always ask someone. They understand that I’m still learning and I appreciate that.
If you could change one thing for women in the workplace, what would it be?
To give all women an equal opportunity and a voice, especially within male dominated industries. I think it’s really important for women to be equals and to stand up for their opinions and ideas.
What has been your biggest achievement to date?
Completing my apprenticeship and being offered a full time job.
What are you hoping to achieve in the future?
To continue my career in PR and work towards another qualification.
