Marketing Officer My background I have a BA Hons in Marketing and I still put a lot of what I learnt during my course into practice in my day-to-day role. The first job I had out of university was for a Marketing & PR Agency, where I gained a lot of experience. I then went to work for an in-house marketing department of an emergency maintenance company. I started as a Marketing Assistant, and then moved to Marketing Co-ordinator.
Why Mercian? I always imagined marketing to be sales orientated, so when I moved to Mercian, I learned that marketing does not always have sales pressure. In the housing sector, its more about communication, people and reputation. Before my interview at Mercian, I looked at the website and researched about ART Homes and Zenith Development. I found it unique that Mercian had its own in-house development service.
My job My job is so varied, nothing is the same everyday. If a story comes up, I will write a press release, which may involve going out to visit a resident to get a quote and take a photograph. Someone might request if I can get an advert made up or an article written urgently. I work with ART Homes too. I recently did a case study where I had to go out and visit a customer who was pleased with the service and help she received.
On a typical day I could be liaising with a venue to organise an event for our residents, writing press releases or an article for a publication (including Mercian’s internal and external magazines) and updating Mercian’s website with up to date information for our residents. I may also do some proof reading or organise design and print for colleagues.
My advice to you… Within Mercian, if I want to do my job effectively I have to be proactive, be prepared get up and have conversations with colleagues to find out the information I need. I’d never really thought about working in housing before I came to Mercian, but I think you have to be caring enough to want to make a difference to people’s lives. Since going out and visiting our residents, it has really made me understand why, as an organisation we work so hard doing what we do. To be successful in marketing in the housing sector, you need to be interested in your target audience and be people orientated.