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I definitely wouldn't be in my job without the Digital Marketing Academy!

Reuben Hewitt, BA (Hons) International Business graduate, reveals how local initiative the Digital Marketing Academy (DMA) was imperative in starting his career journey.

    Reuben Hewitt with the Impression Digital sign
    Reuben Hewitt at Impression Digital

    Now a full-time Paid Media Analyst at local Nottingham digital marketing firm Impression Digital, Reuben is a glowing example of the continuing success of the initiative.

    Run collaboratively between Nottingham Trent University and the University of Nottingham and in partnership with local SME firms, the Digital Marketing Academy (DMA) is continuing to engage record-breaking numbers of local talent.

    Indeed, this year’s participant numbers have topped 400, making it the largest DMA to date –particularly impressive in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Attractive

    'An opportunity to learn from and network with local industry professionals

    The diverse nature of the scheme was one of the main draw cards for Reuben to apply.

    "I wanted to find a job working in Digital but was unsure in what part,’ he explains. ‘I also knew I wanted to stay in Nottingham after graduating."

    "The opportunity to learn from and network with local industry professionals and other Nottingham based students was also a major reason why I chose to apply," he added.

    Variation and Knowledge

    Despite taking a Digital Marketing module as part of his course, Reuben took advantage of 3 of the 4 sessions (PPC, SEO and Digital PR, Social Media and Web Design/UX) available as part of the programme.

    "All of the sessions I attended were great in explaining the theory involved and how this can be applied within a business setting."

    "The fact that I didn’t do a marketing degree meant that the Google accreditations I did as part of the DMA helped massively too," he added.

    In his role at Impression, Reuben works with Google Ads, launching and auditing campaigns alongside social media advertising for a number of clients.

    When asked for a key skill acquired from these sessions, Reuben was clear in his response.

    "Networking – just by having interaction with the professionals, I was able to pick up industry knowledge, interview tips and I felt that gave me a step forward in applying for roles."

    I was able to pick up industry knowledge, interview tips - that gave me a step forward in applying for roles.
    Reuben Hewitt at Impression Digital
    Reuben acquired many valuable skills from taking part in the DMA

    Transferrable Skills

    In fact, the networking that Reuben did during the sessions and the insight day that followed proved invaluable in securing his current role.

    "My manager remembered having lunch with me at the insight day, which I think certainly gave me an advantage!" he explained.

    Additionally, he believes that showing willingness to learn is another key factor from the DMA that helped him and others into the world of work.

    "With the programme being a voluntary extra on top of your degree, I think this demonstrates to employers that you are serious about wanting to learn and progress in this area. This is certainly not a tick box exercise – employers will be able to see your effort."

    Great Insight

    So what would Reuben say to an employer looking to submit a challenge for this year’s scheme?

    "Absolutely do it! All of the students taking part in the DMA have been taught by industry professionals working at award winning digital marketing agencies, such as Impression who were recently named the Best Large PPC Agency in Europe. This means employer’s would be receiving this knowledge and expertise for free through the students, giving them a great insight into the digital marketing sphere."

    And for the students?

    "The DMA is a massive opportunity, regardless of whether or not you are doing a marketing course. Make sure you take part in everything – the sessions, the insight days and challenges –-don’t drop out half way, see it all through!"

    "I definitely wouldn't be in my job without the Digital Marketing Academy!"

    To get in contact to discuss submitting a challenge for this year’s DMA, please contact aga.kelly@ntu.ac.uk

    Published on 7 January 2021
    • Category: Business; Current students; NTU Arts