As recent graduates, we often faced the frustration of seeing entry-level roles that required specific experience to apply for, creating early barriers to entry despite our enthusiasm and eagerness to learn and apply our transferrable skillsets. WeDiscover’s Early Careers Scheme caught our attention due to its CV-less application process, which levels the playing field with its focus on understanding who we are: our personalities, passions and potential for growth. It was an intensive and rigorous process that encouraged stiff competition, but it was also an opportunity that encouraged candidates – especially those looking to change careers or with different areas of expertise – to showcase their ability to thrive in new roles.

The interview process was both unique and enjoyable, structured into three stages, each designed to help us showcase who we are and how we approach challenges, without needing to be digital marketing experts from the start. The first stage involved a video screening, where we answered set questions which were then reviewed by team members. Next, came a guided discussion with the hiring manager; an open conversation where we had a chance to discuss the role, what we had learned so far, and share our thoughts. The final stage was a creative challenge where we were given a mock client brief and tasked with creating a presentation.

It was evident from the start that while our backgrounds were not all in paid search or marketing, WeDiscover didn’t expect us to know everything. What mattered most was how we approached new tasks, how we showcased our ideas, and how we handled the questions that followed. It was an opportunity to demonstrate our enthusiasm and confidence in tackling new problems, even when we didn’t have all the answers.

Throughout the entire process, we were given thorough feedback after each stage, which helped us grow and improve as we moved forward. It was an experience which left us feeling like no matter the outcome, WeDiscover was willing to go above and beyond to support our growth.

One of the keys to our success was the 2 month training programme. A period designed to provide us with all the foundational knowledge we need for a successful career. During this time, we gained expertise in key areas such as paid search fundamentals, scripts, metrics, account structures and so much more.

Each week, we participated in numerous group training sessions led by different team members. The training sessions follow a breadth of formulas, some being presentation based, others being more interactive to get us engaged with the content. This not only gave us exposure to various perspectives but also allowed us to connect with colleagues we might not have had the chance to collaborate with otherwise.

Additionally, the opportunity to onboard alongside other ECs was invaluable. The group dynamic enabled us to learn from one another through hearing different questions and insights, it also gave us a strong support system so we never felt alone during the process.

At the end of each week, we completed confirmation tasks that helped consolidate our knowledge and allowed us to apply concepts to real-world scenarios. After submitting our work, different team members would review it and provide personalised feedback, ensuring we were on track in our progression.

Even after completing the training program, the emphasis on learning and development remained strong. We were given the opportunity to complete various Google Certifications at our own pace, allowing us to earn industry-recognised credentials while continuing to build on our knowledge and test our skills. It was evident that WeDiscover was strongly committed to investing in our growth from day one, shaping us into PPC experts while supporting our professional development every step of the way.

WeDiscover’s emphasis on growth has allowed us all to establish clear progression paths. We kicked off by planning our goals in our weekly 1:1 sessions with our line managers, helping us to visualise our trajectory and map out our path. This prepared us for our 6 month review where we discussed all of our achievements and how to progress.

Not only do we explore progression on a personal level, but we also get the opportunity to be a part of the business’ progression. We have the chance to attend various team-wide sessions, such as monthly regular company updates (where we take a step back and reflect on big picture news) and gain a wider understanding of the industry through ‘Tech Brek’ AKA ‘Tech Breakfast’ where our leading PPC enthusiasts share recent updates.

WeDiscover encourages us to be an expert in our field, adopting a market-specific approach to Paid Media. Whether it’s Search, Social or Analytics that you’re passionate about, WeDiscover supports everyone in guiding their own path. Since starting, we have had the opportunity to oversee various accounts whilst directly influencing client strategy; pushing us to step out of our comfort zone and develop new skills.

The support and encouragement we received through the interview process, training and development encapsulate the company culture we experienced from day one. Although we had met a few members of WeDiscover during the interview process and were eager to start, we didn’t quite know what to expect or who we’d be working with. However, before our official start date, we were invited to the summer social, one of the main social events of the year at WeDiscover. We each arrived at the venue and every person there welcomed us with warmth and reassurance; an atmosphere so welcoming that any hierarchy felt invisible.

This was just one of many social events we have attended within our first 6 months here. From playing rounders in the summer, to hosting games nights in the office, along with numerous socials and our annual Christmas party; we’ve had so many opportunities to get together and have fun experiences since joining. One of our cohort had the opportunity to travel abroad to represent WeDiscover at awards events. We have also had our own internal company awards ceremony in our company meeting celebrating the hard work and wins (from small to big) where two of us won Best Client Team. 

Within each of our differing client teams, we have received so much support. Whether that be an answer to our questions, or in the form of general encouragement in our progression. Beyond this, WeDiscover has a buddy system with the previous ECs. We were paired up with a colleague to meet for regular check-ins and chats to see how we were settling in and answer any more questions we had. This helped us feel at ease, particularly in our first few months. While on a regular basis, we are randomly paired with another person in the company (regardless of team or seniority) to catch up over a coffee.

WeDiscover demonstrates its commitment to employee wellbeing beyond the workplace by providing wellness and learning allowances, work perks, and supporting volunteering and charity initiatives like blood donation.

Overall, despite our initial nerves joining the Early Careers scheme, as we look back at how far we’ve come since that moment, we’re reminded of how much we’ve learned in such a short time. We have all developed technical and interpersonal skills in the field of PPC, through the aid of training, vast opportunities for development and a supportive company culture. We look forward to continuing our journeys at WeDiscover and to the next 6 months!