spottydog communications is committed to investing in young talent and aspiring practitioners to get a paw in the door. This month, we welcomed Daniel Shaw to the pack — a final-year digital marketing student at Birmingham City University. Daniel tells us all about the experience…
Alongside my degree, I was eager to gain first-hand work experience within a dynamic agency so that I could develop my skills and knowledge. Given my background is more marketing focused, I wanted to expand my knowledge by delving into the world of PR and communications and spottydog has been the perfect place to do that.
In just two weeks, I have worked on a variety of exciting projects for different clients including one of the largest operators of restaurants, pubs and bars in the UK, Mitchells & Butlers. From sourcing influencers and stakeholders, to contacting journalists and securing regional coverage, I’ve learned a lot in such a short amount of time.
On top of gaining valuable experience, I was able to receive the Living Wage as spottydog communications is part of PRCA’s list of PR and Communications Employers that pay their interns — a campaign helping to end the practice of unpaid internships.
Keep reading to find out my top three highlights whilst interning at spottydog:
Enhancing my skills and knowledge
It’s been extremely valuable to gain an in-depth ‘behind-the-scenes’ look at how a fast-paced agency operates. Over the course of my internship, I developed and enhanced numerous skills that are essential for a career in the comms industry including copywriting, media relations and time management.
This was through drafting press releases, participating in internal brainstorms and outreaching to journalists. A proud moment, in particular, was when I secured my first pieces of regional coverage for a Vintage Invested pub in Essex and Toby Carvery.
The culture
One of the things I love about spottydog and attracted me to applying for work experience is the team. Each member of the pack is friendly, outgoing and, most importantly, knowledgeable within their job role. It was great to work alongside them, learn new things and gain their useful advice on the different ways to progress within the industry.
During my time in the office, we also celebrated the Platinum Jubilee by sharing a special lunch with scones and sandwiches which enabled me to get a feel for the unique and fun culture!
The fun-factor is also increased by their bring-your-dog-to-work-policy where I met their office dogs, Lottie and Zac!
Working in the heart of Birmingham
Finally, the spottydog office is located in the heart of Brum, making it extremely easy to commute to with New Street Station just a short walk away.
This was great for me, especially as the office’s central location means I was able to take advantage of the abundant tasty food spots at lunch!
Overall, my internship at spottydog has been extremely valuable and I feel better prepared for a career in PR and communications post-university.
Are you interested in a career in PR and communications? Sign up to spottydog’s in-person Open House Event on the 30th of June where you can take a peek behind our curtains and learn more about what we do in the exciting world of PR and communications.
