This time last year I would never have thought that I would be working for such a fast paced, prosperous company like Athona. As soon as I finished school, I knew that I had outgrown the classroom and wanted to get experience in the real working world, rather than staying in a classroom for another two years.
Starting any new job can be scary, but when you join a working environment where you have no prior knowledge it can be even more daunting. So far, I’m one month in and I’ve already learnt so much and everyday I’m learning even more.
Learning lots all at once can be overwhelming and intense, but my team always make sure that I’m not finding the workload too much, and I know that if I ever have any issues or questions, I can just ask.
As soon as I walked into the office everyone was very friendly and I instantly felt welcome. I am a confident, chatty person so I loved being introduced to the team. I was given the opportunity to sit with each division and find out what they do on a day-to-day basis. This gave me a better insight into how the company works, how closely each department intertwines and crucially how my own role plays into this.
During my first month I have already done so much. I have been learning how to use InDesign to make social images, writing blog posts and helping with charity events and I’ve really found that every time I do a task I know how to do a little more each time.
When joining a company you have to get used to how they work and the environment. I really do advise you to take in as much information as you possibly can, really listen to what they tell you and ask as many questions as you can!
The differences that I have found between school and an office environment is that you have to react quickly to the business’ needs. Being in the marketing team for Athona, who are involved in lots of different industries, I have been handed a lot of responsibility which you don’t get at school. Initially taking on responsibility does seem nerve-wracking, but I have adapted well to my surroundings and have settled in very quickly.
The hardest thing for me to begin with was the early starts, commuting and the overload of information. But after one month it has got a lot easier – and the fact that I enjoy coming in to work makes it even better.
I would strongly advise to anyone starting an apprenticeship to relax as much as you can when you get home, have time for yourself and just do things that you enjoy. If you spend time worrying about something you can’t remember, or even something you learnt that day you’ll just overwhelm yourself. Relax. Once you go back into work the next day your mind will be clear and you will find that you have remembered a lot more than you thought you had.
At the end of my apprenticeship I hope to secure a job in the marketing team for Athona and progress my marketing career.
My first month has flown by and I have loved every second of it.
If you’re interested in an apprenticeship with Athona, contact us today.
T: 01277 217777
