Q & A WITH KATIE SMITH

Where and how did you come across Reid?

My course has a compulsory placement year and I knew I wanted to pursue a marketing internship from the start. My university offers a careers website which I used to scout placements daily, when I came across the Reid role advertised. I knew that the job role was the perfect fit for me, as I wanted to gain as much experience as I could within marketing. After an interview, and a nervous wait, I was offered the role which I was extremely happy about!

What has your experience at Reid been like so far?

As I approach the first few weeks at Reid, I feel so welcomed and part of the team! Even though I have started during a crazy time (due to the lockdown), everyone has made me feel totally welcomed and has gone above and beyond to make sure I am comfortable in the tasks.

I have already learnt an abundance of new skills, from managing the social pages to working on the Reid website, to even writing this blog ;), and I am thoroughly enjoying it! I have a real passion for marketing something that people enjoy, and at Reid this is definitely the case. I especially love seeing people’s pictures online with their Reid bikes and seeing how much they enjoy them!

What is an average day in the life of Katie Smith?

When I am in the office, my alarm rings at 6:30, however if we are working from home (due to lockdown restrictions) I usually wake up an hour or so later. I always start the day with a morning coffee, of course, and have some breakfast. I always check my emails first and my to-do list for the day. An example of a typical day during my first week at Reid involves social planning with Kyle, the International Marketing Manager, updating the Reid website and creating new designs for bikes and eScooters.

I enjoy going for a bike ride after work to get some daily exercise in, or I take my dog Poppy, who you can see in the picture above, for a walk in the evening. I live in the New Forest so it’s perfect for an evening cycle/walk.

Keep an eye out for more exciting marketing activities coming up at Reid!

Important question – what bike do you ride?

I have gratefully received a Ladies Esprit 7-Speed from Reid which I absolutely love riding! Unlike my old bike, it is lightweight and so easy to ride. Thanks Reid for the new bike!

What do you like to do at the weekends?

I love to fill my weekends and make the most of having two free days, I used to work weekends so I love having them off! I love meeting up with friends at the weekends for a few drinks or a BBQ on the beach, or adventuring with my boyfriend, or just chilling with the family. You will also catch me walking my dog in the Forest. As long as I have good food, good drink and good company life is good!

What experiences would you like to get out of your marketing placement?

As an undergraduate student I mainly want to experience life in a professional working environment and take the skills that I have acquired into my last year of university. I do not have a huge marketing background thus far, so I am grateful to be gaining marketing experience in a wide variety of scenarios – from social media to web designs.

I am also excited to be working as part of an international company, where every day is different. I believe this experience will be amazing for my future aspirations.

Finally, what advice would you give to someone who doesn’t cycle, or is new to cycling?

Cycling makes you feel free! Personally, it helps me to explore places that I never knew existed and allows me to unwind after a long day at work. Cycling also gives you a platform to meet new people. I thoroughly enjoy cycling with someone who enjoys it just as much as me and it’s nice to share that common interest.

If you are new to cycling or have never tried it, get on a bike and give it a go…trust me, you won’t regret it!

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