"Be Curious" - A Candidate Case Study with Sam Oldfield

Having recently taken up his new role as Head of Paid Media at digital marketing agency Marketing Signals, Sam Oldfield tells us all about securing this position, the challenges and highlights of the job, and gives some great tips on succeeding in the industry.

Hi Sam! Firstly, what attracted you to your new role and what were you looking for?
I was looking for a new challenge. Mainly a step up in responsibility and an opportunity to branch out into new areas such as sales and business development. To achieve this, I decided to go back agency-side because I missed the enjoyment of managing multiple types of projects as well as the fast and more versatile pace of working at an agency.

What interests you most about your industry?
I’ve always had an interest in marketing after studying it at University. This is a young and dynamic industry that is fast-growing and showing no signs of slowing down. The scope of work is incredible, and I love being able to work closely with businesses of all sizes. Each client has their own goals and quirks, but I enjoy working with all types of businesses, from owner-managed SMEs to larger corporates. I’ve also found that despite a business's size or industry, my sole job is to successfully execute strategies that grow and develop the commercial awareness of these businesses, which is challenging yet extremely rewarding and motivating.

What is the best preparation you have had for this role?
The best preparation I have had for this role is mainly from gaining experience and making sure I am constantly learning and keeping up to date with changes in the industry. The industry is always evolving, so gaining relevant experience is key to help develop your general business and commercial awareness. Over the years, I’ve made a point of gaining experience by placing myself in different types of business environments, including working agency-side, in-house, and freelancing.

What are the highlights of your job?
Highlights of my job include:
- Managing a highly-skilled and growing team
- 100% Remote working
- Autonomous working
- Working with successful business owners
- Opportunity to build new skills in new areas

What are the challenges of your role?
Remote working can be a challenge. Whether that be transitioning from office to remote working or joining a new company remotely, I felt that I wasn’t as exposed to as many people or parts of the business as you would be in an office environment. I enjoy the social side of going into the office, but adapting to a new way of working has been a learning curve but this has now become the new norm.

What added value did you get from job hunting with a recruitment agency such as us here at The Candidate?
The Candidate was a massive help during my job hunt! After a crazy year of furlough and then redundancy, The Candidate supported me throughout the whole process, creating a seamless experience and helping me secure the perfect role for me that not only matches my experience but also my career ambitions.

I would 100% recommend The Candidate.

Any top tips for securing a job in marketing?
Networking - Reach out to like-minded professionals in your industry. Be this on LinkedIn, networking events, or people your friends and family might know. The more people you know the more doors for new opportunities you open.

Learning - Digital marketing is now a key component of almost every business's strategy. But, the industry is always changing. Stay ahead and make sure you are investing in your education. This includes completing free or paid courses, listening to industry podcasts, attending networking events, or watching YouTube tutorials. There are so many free resources available that there is no excuse not to learn something new.

Be Curious - Don’t be afraid to ask questions. With a constantly changing industry, nobody can know the answer to every question.

Thanks so much Sam, and congratulations on your new job! 

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