From Journalism Graduate to Marketing Coordinator, Discover My Journey

My adventure with Rodericks Dental Partners began in late 2021, right after I graduated from Sheffield Hallam University with a first-class honours degree in journalism. With the job market still reeling from the effects of COVID, opportunities in media and journalism were scarce, especially up north where I was based. Realising that my passion for writing and marketing could align well with a new career path, I decided to explore roles outside traditional journalism.

A turning point came when my friend Poppy, who worked at Wickersley Dental and Implant Practice as a Treatment Coordinator, shared an opening for a full-time receptionist position. Seeing it as a potential stepping stone, I applied with an open mind. During my interview with Emma Nicholson, the practice manager, who had recently joined Wickersley to revitalise the practice, I discovered how perfectly my interests aligned with the company’s goals. Emma was focused on transforming the practice into a modern, cosmetic-focused entity, which was exciting for me as someone eager to delve into marketing.

Emma saw potential in me and offered the receptionist role with the added opportunity to contribute to marketing efforts. This was a significant moment—it wasn’t just about managing day-to-day operations; it was about shaping the practice’s brand and outreach strategy.

Working closely with Emma and Poppy, I began diving into the world of social media and marketing strategy. We held weekly meetings to brainstorm ideas and implement new tactics. I was actively involved in building our social media presence and exploring ways to attract a new, younger audience while maintaining our existing patient base.

About four to five months into my role, my area manager approached me with an exciting new opportunity—becoming a marketing coordinator for the region. This role required me to perform marketing audits across various practices, assessing everything from signage to social media engagement. I was tasked with reporting back on what was working and what needed improvement, which allowed me to build a reputation within the company and expand my marketing skills.

When the opportunity arose to join the Rodericks Dental Partners central marketing team as a marketing coordinator, I was excited to apply. With strong recommendations from my colleagues, I successfully secured the position in November. The role has allowed me to continue developing my skills while working with a broader network of practices.

Team Collaboration and Support

From the outset, the support and collaboration within the team were remarkable. I was guided through the process by experienced colleagues, which helped me build a solid foundation in marketing practices.

The collaborative spirit at Rodericks Dental Partners has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey. The marketing team, which I officially joined in November 2023, operates with a high degree of cooperation. Each team member brings unique skills to the table, and there’s a genuine culture of helping one another. Whether it’s sharing insights on digital strategies or brainstorming new campaign ideas, the team works closely together to achieve common goals.

One of the highlights has been working with different departments across the organisation. Each department has its own objectives, but there’s a seamless flow of communication and support. For instance, if there’s a new initiative or campaign, team members from different areas will collaborate to ensure its success. I’ve found that this interdisciplinary approach not only enhances the effectiveness of our marketing efforts but also provides a broader understanding of the business.

My manager, Vicky, has been instrumental in my development. She regularly checks in on my progress and career aspirations, providing guidance and support as I navigate my role. This open line of communication has been invaluable in aligning my work with my long-term career goals.

Expanding My Skills and Understanding

As I continued in my role, I was encouraged to explore new areas within marketing. For example, when I expressed an interest in digital marketing, the company supported me in seeking out relevant training and resources. This openness to development has allowed me to expand my skills, from creating social media content to developing email campaigns. The ability to see the direct impact of these efforts on customer engagement and retention has been particularly rewarding.

Working with over 220 practices has given me a unique perspective on the importance of cohesive marketing strategies. My background in social media marketing, combined with the support from my colleagues, has allowed me to help other teams enhance their outreach efforts. It’s been fulfilling to see my work contribute to the success of a larger network of practices.

Looking Ahead

Reflecting on my journey, I’m excited about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead. The collaborative environment and the emphasis on professional growth at Rodericks Dental Partners have been key to my development. If you’re considering joining this company or advancing your career, I highly recommend it. The combination of supportive teams, open communication and a commitment to development creates an environment where you can thrive.

Embrace the opportunities, seek out support and you might find yourself on an exciting and unexpected career trajectory.