Why did you choose to do a Bootcamp?

I’ve been interested in Digital Marketing for around two years now. It all started when I saw some people online talking about it, and I was inspired by their passion to pursue a career in the field. When I was looking for work, I didn’t have any experience in Digital Marketing, but I thought I’d give it a try. That’s when I found the bootcamp and decided to apply.

What was the onboarding process like?

The onboarding process was quite simple and straightforward. I submitted my name and the next day I received a call asking if I was still interested in the position. I said yes, and they told me that the Bootcamp would start in a week and gave me a link and code to access all the information I needed. It was all very relaxed and easy.

How did you find the training delivered and what support did you get?

I’m currently just past the halfway mark and still going. Being taught by Neel, my Digital Skills Coach, has been fantastic, and I have no complaints. I was worried that, coming in with no experience, the teaching process would be overwhelming at times, especially considering I have anxiety. But everyone has been really understanding and I never feel awkward to ask questions. The pace has been good too, the course isn’t so fast that I can’t keep up, but it’s also not so slow that I’m not learning anything, it strikes a great balance.

What is your favourite thing currently about the Bootcamp?

I’m torn between two for different reasons; I’ve just successfully completed my Google Analytics 4 Certification, which provides an in-depth understanding of the platform, and I enjoy working on Google Analytics. I like the practical side of it, researching the answers, testing my knowledge and working with code.

I also enjoy the more creative and design-led modules of the Bootcamp, such as creating presentations. I enjoy having a set project that I can take from start to finish, and feel a real sense of accomplishment when it looks great and does what it’s supposed to do. So, I think I enjoy the challenge of flexing my brain a bit as well.

What did you find most challenging within the Bootcamp so far?

I’d say overall it hasn’t been too bad and if I ever have any issues I can just reach out to Neel and ask for help. Initially, I struggled with some of the more technical subject areas of the course, like learning the product lifecycle and all the different acronyms in marketing was a challenge. Mainly because I’m new to the industry, understanding all the different terms used within the Digital Marketing industry has taken a bit of time.

What advice would you give to anyone considering a Bootcamp?

I think one piece of advice would be, don’t be afraid to take risks and go all in. Neel has been great at explaining things in different ways so that everyone can understand them. Analyse the situation and if you’re interested in something, go for it. Everyone on the team has been very helpful and supportive, and one thing I’d say is don’t be afraid to make a fool of yourself when it comes to presenting. Even if it’s not perfect, someone has to go first, so don’t be afraid to take the plunge.

What skills have you gained from the Bootcamp so far?

I’m just getting started, learning the fundamentals, and building the basic blocks of my knowledge. Pluralsight, one of the learning platforms we use, has been great and the skills coaches also circulate a list of courses that are not available on Pluralsight for us to further our development and skill set.

I have already taken a general knowledge assessment for digital marketing, and I’m prepared for similar questions for another upcoming assessment about understanding the customer lifecycle, product lifecycle, brand voice, and brand guidelines. We’re all exposed to marketing and advertising every day, so we have a basic understanding of it, but the Bootcamp really delves into the details and provides more of an understanding on how it all works and why different brands employ different strategies, which I find really interesting. I have gained these skills already and I’m only halfway through!

Are you looking to progress into an Apprenticeship after the Bootcamp?

Ideally, at the end of this bootcamp, I would like to go into an apprenticeship, as it provides a beginner-friendly environment where I can continue to learn and grow. I think this would be beneficial for me, as it would help me to overcome my imposter syndrome and prove to myself that I can do it.

Has the Bootcamp inspired you to further your learning through an Apprenticeship?

I had a fixed plan in my life, but that changed when I went to work as a career for my sister for a few years. After that, the only jobs I was getting recommended were career jobs, which I didn’t want to do, so I had a long period of stagnation. Then this opportunity came up, which was ideal, because I knew I would spend three months doing something that would benefit my CV, would get me back into the rhythm of work, and at the end I would have a guaranteed interview. During that time, I thought that even if I wasn’t successful with the interview, the Bootcamp would still be a valuable experience, and it made me want to go forward with an apprenticeship.

How has the Bootcamp impacted you and made you feel?

Not to be too grandiose but it’s been pretty life-changing! It’s honestly been a real game-changer for me. I was stuck in a rut for a while, not doing much, and this Bootcamp has really helped me to get back into a routine and even helped me start being more sociable again. It’s also been great for my creativity.

It’s been a really positive experience, and it’s been great to be around people who are smiling and chatting. It’s been fantastic.

What are you looking forward to within the last few weeks of the Bootcamp?

I’m really excited for my next session because Neel has been talking it up since the beginning. We’re going to be focusing on SEO, which I’m familiar with, so I’m looking forward to learning more about how it works and how to use it. After the first two weeks of setting up the basics, I’m sure the meetings will become even more interesting. So far, it’s been fantastic.

How have you found the Skills Coach?

I had a meeting with my Skills Coach today and she was very supportive and lovely. I’m currently in the process of reading her work and it’s been very nice and supportive. She always reminds me that if I have any questions, I can go to her for support.

My previous work experience was in a call centre for public transport, which wasn’t quite as friendly. But everyone here has been so nice and welcoming, and it makes me want to reach out to people. When you need help, don’t be afraid to ask because everyone is so kind at althaus.

Have you had any support with employability?

We receive employability support throughout the Bootcamp, as well as the guaranteed interview at the end of the course. Mark – Digital Skills Consultant, came into one of our regular sessions recently to talk about job opportunities, and career progression. I told him I was really interested in pursuing an apprenticeship, and he said he would get the ball rolling for me, which is exciting. It’s been great to have that direct support.