A lot can change in six months and last summer I was preparing to graduate from University having just finished a course in Media and Journalism. I’d be lying to you if I didn’t say that the thought of facing the big wide world wasn’t daunting to me. But, having spent some time gaining valuable experience at a few B2B tech agencies, I knew PR was an area I wanted to pursue. I started scoping out agencies around the Bristol area and landed a job at Mantis before my graduation even happened – I’ve never looked back since.

Having worked with B2B technology companies before, I knew it was something I was interested in. I really loved working closely with businesses that wanted to stand out from the crowd and make a difference. This is exactly what drew me to Mantis in the first place and I remember my initial interview with Eleanor, our Client Services Director, in a cosy café in Bristol. After that meeting I knew right away that Mantis would be my cup of tea and a company I’d love to work for. For me, the focus Mantis has on public sector tech is so important, it gives me the opportunity to work with companies that have a positive impact on people’s lives. Whether it’s improving the efficiency of the NHS or helping the police service fight crime, I find it all hugely rewarding.

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working as an Account Executive at Mantis over the last six months and learnt so much from the lovely bunch of people I’m fortunate enough to work with on a daily basis. Eleanor is one of the many people at Mantis that I’ve learned bucket loads from and have really helped me to build a solid foundation in the world of Public Relations.

If I’m honest, at the beginning I was a little nervous about the thought of working remotely. However, I’ve found that having the flexibility to work either from home, the Bristol office, or our London office, has really helped me to progress and settle into my role. The freedom to work where you like, encourages you to get those creative juices flowing as well as taking responsibility for the work that needs to be completed. And let’s face it, when you’ve got to pitch out two press releases, three opinion articles as well as completing an array of monthly reports, its handy to be able to glue yourself to the desk at home with an unlimited supply of Yorkshire Tea to get those energy levels high.

I’m really proud to be part of a now, five-person-strong team in Bristol and to be creating our very own South West tech hub. After a busy week of hosting clients calls, drafting content and fine-tuning our media relations, it’s great to end the week with a team debrief over a cold pint of Cider discussing our talking points for the week. Although, I better not forget our London office! I’ve always wanted to work in London and I really enjoy catching up with colleagues at our monthly company meetings and meeting clients to discuss our media campaign progress – all while being able to return home to the lively city of Bristol in the evenings.

I’m forever grateful for the support and guidance I’ve received from the team while I progress my career – I’m really excited to see what the future holds as I continue my adventure as an official Mantosian!