“So much can change in a year.”
Wellington-based social media strategist Georgia Mae has had a “whirlwind” 12 months – and came full circle on Monday night when she featured as a guest speaker in DMS’s Social Media class, from which she graduated less than 6 months prior.
She made the risk in 2021 to change careers from Graphic Design to Digital Marketing. Since upskilling with DMS’s Digital Marketing Diploma, Georgia has landed a full-time role at Blackjet, a boutique social media management company in Wellington.
“I'm just thrilled. When I started the course I was hoping to get a job in the industry but you never really know. You have to take that chance and invest in yourself and your abilities. Especially when you’ve been in the workforce for a while...it does feel like a risk to start a new challenge. I feel like it’s really paid off.”
The Big Switch
After studying graphic design at University, Georgia was working in-house with several architecture firms. But, she felt that something was missing.
“Something that we did a lot in graphic design studies was strategizing and planning, but when you're working in-house or on a project for a brand...you don’t get to do that as much. I missed the strategy part of it. I was looking around at what kind of job involved all of these aspects. Digital marketing ticked all of the boxes.”
Choosing DMS
She considered studying Digital Marketing at University but didn’t feel ‘inspired’ by the thought of another 3-year degree.
After researching Digital Marketing Courses, she came across DMS. She ‘stalked’ the tutors, and chatted to Recruitment officer Phil about their backgrounds and experience.
“What drew me to the course was the experience that the tutors bring. It’s so important to be working with and learning under industry professionals because they’ve got the experience and the contacts to support you once you’ve finished the course. <br> <br>
My personal favourite was Jen. I enjoyed the enthusiasm, energy and vibrance that she brought to class. It was engaging. She has so much experience and knowledge to share: like I think most of the tutors do.”
Guest Speaking in Digital Marketing Diploma: Social Media class.
Landing her first Digital Marketing Role
Georgia’s new adventure as a Social Media Account Manager was made possible by DMS’s extensive career support. She took advantage of the Client Success Team’s resources during her job search:
“I kept in touch with Jana (Client Success Advisor) the whole process: I reached out to her for help with my CV, and any job suggestions: she sent a few ads my way.”
Valuable skills learnt at DMS
“DMS was so valuable because it [taught me] a lot of practical skills. I felt confident finishing a diploma where I could launch into the workplace and know how things get done and how to do them. My [university] degree was very theory-based, so I struggled a bit more after that. That was a huge difference between doing this diploma and that degree.”
A new chapter
Georgia has just begun an exciting new chapter. She feels nurtured and supported at Blackjet by her boss Christine, who is “really prepared to invest and help [me] grow. She’s always got my back.”
The Wellington Digital Marketing scene is an exciting space to be working in;
“What Wellington does so well is keeping its compact size: we have everything, and we have everything that you need. There’s so many creatives and innovators down here. I think the scene is going to grow and grow. It's super exciting to be down here and be based to be able to witness that as it comes.”
A typical week at Blackjet includes collaboration with photographers, videographers, SEO strategists and a lot of in-house design and strategy work.
A bright future ahead
While Georgia looks forward to “packing up a suitcase and travelling”, that won’t happen anytime soon. She's loving her new role and digging deep into Wellington’s networks.
“I'm excited to find out what the future brings because I think it will be big.”
DMS would like to thank Georgia for featuring as a Student Success Story. We wish her all the best in her bright future ahead.
Inspired by Georgia's story and feeling ready for a career change? Ready more about our Digital Marketing Diploma.
Book a chat with Recruitment advisor Phil below.