Annabelle Ellis

Current role:
Content Executive

Current employer:
GIANT and All Things Business magazine

Tell us about your current role and employer:
After originally completing work experience at a marketing agency and business publication, I was offered a permanent position as a Content Executive. This role involves research, copywriting, editing, SEO and PR support.

As the company’s sole copywriter, I write all the content for our client’s websites and blogs. I also write press releases, magazine articles, social media content, newsletters, and more. I have had the opportunity to work on large marketing campaigns, assist with event management, conduct interviews, and take the lead on client projects.

What does a typical day in your current role look like?:
On an average day, I will often write one or two blogs for a client. This involves researching a particular topic and writing a blog about it in the right tone of voice for the brand. Then I will edit it and optimise the blog for SEO before it is sent to the client for approval.

I am also part of the PR team, so I complete a lot of research on different publications, awards, and events our clients may be interested in.

Lastly, I might proofread some content for the rest of the team. This could be a brochure, poster, slideshow, or even a menu that we’ve designed.

How do you feel the learning experience on your course helped to prepare you for your career?:
My course taught me key skills like research, writing, and editing which I use every day in my career. I learnt how to foster professional working relationships, receive feedback, and communicate across different departments. I also think the learning experience of my degree gave me the confidence I needed in my writing abilities, helping me to pursue a career in copywriting.

What are your top tips for students graduating today?:
Experience is everything and take any opportunity you can get. Apply for mentorships, apprenticeships, work experience — anything to get your foot in the door and start gaining experience. Consider roles in a range of industries and don’t be put off if your first job is not your dream job.

What were the best things about your course?:
The freedom I was given to study and learn about the things I enjoyed. Even though we were doing the same degree, I would often be covering very different subjects and genres to my friends.

My dual honours gave me the opportunity to cover a wide range of disciplines including classical and modern literature, history, philosophy, anthropology, and archaeology. I have learnt so many interesting things and loved being able to tailor my course to my own interests.