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Jess is a Marketing Manager at KFC Australia
1. Why did you choose advertising/marketing as a career path?
My Grandad suggested it! And I’ve never looked back. I started with a PR gig, then made my way on to a grad program at an advertising agency. Drawn to the sharp minds, creativity (and if I’m honest the parties!) I was hooked.
2. What's the best advice you'd give to your younger self who's just started their career?
Don’t take it all so seriously. Starting out, you can feel the weight of the world on your shoulders - try not to take on too much stress, and don’t put too much pressure on yourself.
3. What do you look for when hiring young people?
Enthusiasm, proactivity and authenticity.
4. How do I make my resume stand out?
Keep it simple. Find a creative way to simply represent your experience and key skills and you’ll stand out from the crowd.
5. What skills have been most beneficial for you?
Sounds cliched, but being myself. You can find yourself feeling you need to play a part - but the best (and easiest!) part to play is yo be yourself.
6. Do you need a degree?
Yes, a BA Comms. I don’t think it’s required though.
7. What was a key lesson you learnt in your career to date?
If you f**k up, fess up. I remember a boss telling me this on my first job as a new grad, and it’s stuck with me ever since. A problem shared, is a problem halved and sharing an issue makes it so much easier to solve.
8. Have your reasons for joining the industry changed over time?
I still love the sharp minds and creativity I’m surrounded by daily. In my old age, I’m probably less motivated by the parties! I definitely feel a heightened awareness of the potential for good our industry can have.
9. Have you ever failed? How did you react?
Many, many times! At first failure can feel utterly defeating and deflating, but after the initial wave of emotion, taking a step back to see what you can learn from the situation has helped me move on.
10. If you had the chance to re-do your career knowing what you know now, what would you do differently?
I don’t think I would. I often worry I’ve been too flippant in my career path, and not considered enough in each step - but this has led to learning, development and meeting a bunch of amazing people, so I wouldn’t change any of it.