When You Were in My Shoes: Fiona

In this month’s blog hot seat we have our Digital Account Manager Fiona.

Fiona first joined Platform81 in 2015 meaning she has gathered a huge amount of knowledge and insight into the industry which I’m intrigued to know more about. That’s why this time, it’s Fiona’s turn to tell me what she was like when she was in my shoes.

What were you like at 18?

At the age of 18 I was studying Art and Design at university. Don’t ask me what I thought I was going to do with it.. I was just enjoying being away from home and feeling all “arty”.

Did you have a clear vision of what you wanted to do in the future?

No clue at all. I think I had teaching in the back of my head.

Which university did you study at (if you did, if not then discuss the alternative)

My degree is with Liverpool University but I was at the Chester College Campus. I was basically on Hollyoaks!

 Do you wish you had done anything differently during that time?

Don’t get me wrong, I like where I have ended up. However, I wish I had taken some time out after school before applying to universities. I felt pushed down the “uni” path before I felt ready. I went with a safe option not too far away from home and with some close friends.  If I had my time again I’d have gone to a bigger more exciting city with more specific courses available.

What was the deciding factor that you wanted to do this as your career?

I have always been creative and enjoyed working with creative people. I wanted to be at the forefront of projects and involved from beginning to end.  An Account Manager role allowed me to do this and still keep an element of creativity.

What would you tell your younger self?

Be sure of yourself and less inclined to follow others.

What advice would you give me as an apprentice?

Stay true to yourself. Don’t feel pushed in to anything. If your career isn’t following the path you want, take a breath and reassess.

What do you think are the 3 most important things you need to succeed in this industry?

The ability to move with the industry! To succeed you need to be constantly evolving with it and always willing to learn new things. 

What age do you feel now? Why?

I stopped ageing at 27 …  Age 18 – 25 was a bit of a rollercoaster, mostly fun but definitely challenging.  I still feel young but I now feel confident and content too. 

What’s you proudest achievement in your career?

During my career I have worked with some huge brands. Examples being John Lewis, F&F Fashion.

With that said, I am most proud of the work I have done here at Platform81.  As a small company we have really grown in the 4 years I have been here. I am proud to say we have become the award-winning agency we strived to be. 

When I was in your shoes…. my head was in the clouds a little. I wanted to be exploring the world ignoring the inevitability of growing up.  You’re very lucky to know what you want to do at such a young age.