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National Careers Week: How Work Experience Opens Doors to New Career Opportunities
12 Feb, 20251-2 minutes
In this blog, you will learn:
- About the benefits of work experience for career guidance and progression.
- Where the latest jobs are and how to apply for them.
National Careers Week is a time for young people to think about their future and for schools, colleges and organisations to provide career guidance and opportunities. Embarking on a career path can be difficult, but organisations can provide support and opportunities like work experience to inform and inspire young people to get excited about their future.
In light of National Careers Week, we interviewed Recruitment Support Officer, Chloe Mason, who joined Spencer Clarke Group in July 2024 after completing a week of work experience with us.
In this interview, Chloe discusses the benefits of work experience from building confidence and developing skills, to exploring career options for the future.
Chloe, tell us about yourself
Before I joined Spencer Clarke Group, I was mainly in full time education, studying, building my skills and gaining qualifications while working various part-time jobs. While I was at college, I did a lot of face-to-face roles including customer service and hospitality and gained skills that have helped me in my current role as Recruitment Support Officer.
How did you find yourself doing work experience at Spencer Clarke Group?
I found myself doing work experience through my college course. I was interested in the marketing industry at the time and I needed to fulfil the work experience hours to complete my qualification in Travel, Tourism and Events.
I got in contact with Spencer Clarke Group’s Head of Marketing, Debbie Holden, through my college tutor and from there I managed to organise a date where I could do a weeks’ worth of experience. My work experience had to have a slight relation with my course which is why this work experience was perfect for me.
I also didn’t have any plans to go to university and thought that work experience would be the best way to explore my career options.
What were you expecting from your work experience?
I always believed that the office life wasn’t for me, however, during my work experience I realised how vibrant office life actually is. My work experience was extremely organised and allowed me to explore all the different roles within the office. This gave me a clearer idea of potential career paths and ultimately led me to the position I am in today.
What did you do during your work experience week?
During my week of work experience, I was introduced to the different departments in the office. I learnt about the way a recruitment agency works and about data, marketing, graphic design and more.
I took part in many tasks within the business such as marketing, graphic design and recruitment, however compliance stood out the most as something I would enjoy. I was provided with useful information booklets which gave me a good insight into the world of compliance and the everyday tasks. I also enjoyed the organisation side of compliance where they worked on their own candidates and had their own spreadsheet to update.
How would you describe your work experience?
I would describe my work experience as very organised and eye-opening. I gained a good insight into the recruitment world as well as hands-on experience of how each job role works within the office. This helped me form the career path I wanted to follow in compliance. I was unsure as to what I wanted to do before taking part in my work experience.
What was your favourite part of work experience?
A memorable moment for me would have to be meeting Creative Lead, Luke Meeks, and learning about his job role. All the activities I did during my work experience were really exciting and intriguing, however Luke was very funny and had a unique way of teaching us his job role. I didn’t end up working in graphic design but I enjoyed the opportunity to learn about it.
What skills did you develop during your work experience?
I would say I am much more confident dealing with new situations on a daily basis and problem solving thanks to my work experience. I have also improved my communication and team working skills and I feel my experience has encouraged me to be more independent.
How did you end up working full time at Spencer Clarke Group?
After my work experience, I finished my course in Travel, Tourism and Events and began looking for a full-time job. I’d enjoyed my work experience so much and I knew I wanted to work at Spencer Clarke Group. I reached out to Debbie and asked if she could notify me when a job became available so I could apply.
I was then informed that there was a role in compliance and Debbie asked if I would be interested. One week later I attended an interview and met Divisional Manager Jamie Heath. I got the role and I have been at Spencer Clarke Group ever since.
What opportunities did Spencer Clarke Group offer you?
If I did not attend work experience at Spencer Clarke Group, I wouldn’t be aware of the job opportunities within the recruitment industry. Before I did my work experience, I had never pictured recruitment as an industry I would go into as it isn’t something I knew much about. However, after doing my work experience, I found a new career path that I really enjoyed.
Spencer Clarke Group offers a lot of room for growth and development within the business and always guides you on your career path with monthly meetings and targets to hit. I always feel supported to try my hardest to hit these targets as the team is very supportive and helpful during busy periods. I’m looking forward to what is to come.
What advice would you give to someone preparing for their first work experience?
The advice that I would give for someone who is about to begin work experience is to be confident and go into it with an open mind. Be open to any opportunities that come your way and don’t be afraid to try new things as you never know where it may lead you.
What does the future hold for you at Spencer Clarke Group?
My future plan is to keep growing with Spencer Clarke Group and just to see where my career takes me within the business.
Searching for a new job?
As expert recruiters across eleven specialisms, we’re on hand to connect you with an exciting new career opportunity. Give us a call on 01772 954200 to find your dream job today!
Struggling to recruit?
Recruiting throughout the UK, across eleven different specialisms, we support local authorities, public sector organisations and private companies with their recruitment needs.
If you’re struggling to recruit top talent, why not take a look at everything we offer or submit a vacancy to get the ball rolling today!
Who is Spencer Clarke Group?
Established in 2017, we’re an award winning and progressive recruitment agency based in the heart of the North West. Our reputation is built on trust, expertise and an unwavering commitment to exceed expectations.
In 2024, we were named Recruitment Agency of the Year at the prestigious Recruiter Awards, an accolade we are extremely proud of.
We operate in two sectors:
In eleven specialisms:
Healthcare, Social Care & Nursing
Corporate Functions & Business Support
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