Interviews, ideation and ‘values walks’: My first three months at Speak
Our new senior content writer Sophie Parrott talks about the transition from B2B journalism to content marketing, what makes Speak unique and getting to know the rest of the team through Spotify Unwrapped.
Just a few weeks into my role as a senior content writer at Speak Media, I was already conducting interviews at an exciting event on behalf of a client, writing articles to help keep the Parkinson’s community informed – and taking part in my first ‘values walk’.
Joining Speak was a big (but welcome) change for me – until last year, I’d worked as an HR journalist and digital magazine editor for over four years. Switching roles, getting to grips with different subject matters and learning the ropes at an agency was a daunting prospect, but it was a challenge I was ready for.
Speak’s editorial approach to brand storytelling – underpinned by its newsroom approach – is something I was really impressed by. As soon as I joined, I knew I’d made the right decision. In the short time that I’ve been here, I’ve been able to play my part in keeping our newsroom running – whether it’s completing content scans or scouting out interviewees to bring stories to life.
Over the years, I’ve gained lots of multi-media experience – from conducting interviews with leaders at the top of their game, to hosting podcasts, to editing a monthly digital magazine. I’m really excited to see how these skills can translate across sectors and help me find and tell the stories that matter to our clients.
“I immediately sensed that Speak was unique”
I’ve also learned a lot more about what makes Speak, well, Speak. I attended my first ‘values walk’ just before Christmas – an annual occasion for team members to venture outdoors to reflect on the values that guide everything we do: ambition, collaboration, energy and curiosity. It was a great opportunity to get my steps in (something that can be tricky when you have a desk-based job!) but it also helped me understand how and why these principles play such a crucial role in everything we do.
Plus, I’ve been able to get to know my colleagues a bit better. Each Monday we meet in the office to discuss projects, processes and playlists – whether it’s bonding over Spotify Unwrapped or debating the latest series we’ve been binging on Netflix (Emily in Paris is my personal fave for anyone wondering).
I may not have been in my role for long, but I immediately sensed that Speak was unique – from the way that the company lives, breathes (and walks) its values to its newsroom processes and its people. I couldn’t have asked for a better start, and I’m excited to see where I am in three months’ time.
Want to find out how to implement a best-in-class editorial strategy that connects your organisation with your always-on audience?
Contact Gabrielle from our client services team: gabriellebridle@speakmedia.co.uk