WHAT DO YOU DO?

I’m a marketing professional with a focus on digital and content. I love words and technology, so helping people and brands with their content and their digital strategies is my area.

How did you get into that?

I love words, people, creativity, tech and variety in my life. I studied Philosophy Politics and Economics (to prove I was clever!) then convinced a small props company in Glasgow to hire me as a marketing manager. I taught myself to code, use PhotoShop, all sorts… and the rest is history.

How long have you been doing it?

My first marketing job as a graduate was in 2010

Do you have a mentor or anyone who supports you?

The lovely Emma, a creative director at a big company, is my usual sounding board when it comes to career decisions and job moves. She has given me some great advice, like how to create a narrative around your career. I also get great advice from my mum, dad and brother about careers – they are so wise and lovely, but their mantra is ‘Nobody else cares about your career as much as you do.’

WHO INSPIRES YOU?

Cindy Gallop (@cindygallop on Twitter)

Look her up and it will be clear instantly! A loud, proud voice against sexism in the world of marketing and beyond, with some excellent practical ideas about redressing the balance of power.

What do you wish you'd known 10 years ago? What difference would knowing that have made?

I really don’t think I would change anything about my career choices – I’ve had quite a few jobs and always learnt a lot from them, and the people around me. I am more confident in myself now than ever, but you have to build that up over time. Saying that, it’s interesting to discover as an adult that every other adult also has no REAL idea what on earth they are doing. That’s sort of heartening to learn.

What are the best things about being a woman in an industry dominated by men?

Marketing isn’t too bad, although senior positions are frequently occupied by men. In previous roles I have been judged on my looks rather than my skills (!) and I do think you have to work harder (than a man) to be noticed and respected. I like proving people wrong (pink stationery and a brain!? what?!) and having male as well as female advocates in the workplace is hugely helpful. I’ve been lucky to work for a few excellent feminist bosses who happened to be men!

What advice do you have for girls or women considering a tech role?

Don’t let the stereotypes put you off – I know I am constantly having my misconceptions challenged as I find roles and people within technology who are not remotely boring!!

What is your favourite quote?

I do love ‘Dress for the job you want, not the job you have’ although obviously it has to be taken with a pinch of salt – it’s all about attitude. That’s why ‘Fake it til you make it’ is another favourite – it’s not about being fake at all, but about embracing failure without losing self-belief. Most commonly used? ‘Language is a slalom.’ If you don’t know how to spell something, write something different! Top proofreader tip there!