Top tips for applying for an apprenticeship in the marketing industry
We’re celebrating national apprenticeship week here at THE FIFTH
To celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, which takes place from 6th – 12th of February, we hear from Nana Akosua Frimpong who joined THE FIFTH as the very first apprentice at the agency.
Nana has now been with THE FIFTH for 12 months, and has split her time between studying for an extracurricular course alongside working for the Talent Research team.
From helping to source talent for key campaigns with clients including Wimbledon and Fenty Beauty, to writing regular long-form opinion pieces for THE FIFTH’s website and helping with social content, Nana has thrown herself into the work – and become a crucial part of the agency.
Here, we wanted to catch up with Nana and hear about her tips for those considering applying for an apprenticeship in the marketing industry, and find out how her first year has been.
For those considering applying for an apprenticeship in this industry, what advice would you give to them?
Do your research.
Make sure that this is what you want – an apprenticeship is an investment for your future career, so make sure that you are joining one with a purpose in mind. Also, remember it is an opportunity to not only work but gain a qualification, so make sure the qualification you will be completing is something of interest to you.
How did you apply and what was the interview process like?
I first saw the ad for the apprenticeship on Instagram via Social Fixt (a community with a mission to put more Black talent in the boardrooms and not just on billboards).
The application process was straightforward and broken down into three parts: the application process, a phone interview and an assessment centre.
When applying, I had to answer three to four questions relating to any interesting ads I had seen recently and why I thought they worked well. I also had to talk about a few of my favourite content creators which included Jackie Aina and Patricia Bright.
After my initial application, I had a 15-30 minute phone interview, where I had a chance to talk to a member of the team/HR and explain more about my experiences.
Lastly, I took part in the virtual assessment centre (this was during the pandemic and before hybrid working was introduced). It was a great opportunity to learn more about THE FIFTH, meet some of the team and showcase my skills and experiences.
How have you found the last year at THE FIFTH as an apprentice?
I have thoroughly enjoyed my first year working with the team and have had the opportunity to work on exciting projects with amazing clients such as Disney and YouTube.
It’s been great to be able to take part in discussions around social trends and identify ways in which brands can utilise them to their advantage. Working in the talent research team has also given me the opportunity to grow my knowledge and challenge myself in identifying niche creators as well as developing interpersonal skills.
The opportunity to work on the job whilst applying my course knowledge has been invaluable. Not only have I been able to work on getting a Level 4 Sales Executive Accreditation, I have also been able to build on my influencer and social marketing skills and knowledge that will help further my career in the industry.
The team has been incredibly supportive throughout my apprenticeship to help me meet my course criterias and goals.
What has been your biggest learning since you started?
As someone who joined the apprenticeship scheme due to a career change, the last year has been a worthwhile experience and one that I know will be invaluable in my future career.
One of my biggest learnings is: celebrate the small wins just as much as celebrating the big ones.
What top tips do you have for somebody about to start an apprenticeship?
My top tips are:
1. Immerse yourself in every stage of the apprenticeship
2. Try to meet as many people as you can: in and out of the industry. Build relationships and go to events. Say yes to any and all new opportunities that will help develop or improve on your skills?
3. Working and completing your apprenticeship course may be stressful at times but learn to communicate that with both your employer and course provider
4. Be kind to yourself and remember you are allowed to make mistakes – you are learning
5. Most importantly, always ask questions and don’t limit yourself – remember this is an opportunity for you to learn about the industry you are working hard in so ask and learn from those around you