How to Launch Your Career: Proven Strategies for Success

Hello! I’m Faten Bawadekji an optimistic, Interior Design Graduate, and Marketing Assistant for IoT Horizon. I wanted to share my journey from graduating in Interior Design ➡ to undertaking a 6-month Kickstart Placement during a global pandemic ➡ to accepting a permanent employment contract from IoT Horizon, an Internet of Things (IoT) Solutions Provider based in the North West.

Where do I start? So I graduated from the University of Salford in Interior Design and like many other graduates, I struggled to find a role within a competitive industry. The global pandemic and business uncertainty also impacted my job prospects, as it did for 200,000+ people out of work for over 6 months. It was a stressful time for so many young people, two-thirds of which experienced a job loss (ONS, 2021). 

Despite the obstacles in my way, I decided to take on the challenge and do what I could to pursue my career regardless…

Interior Design had so many transferrable skills that I decided I needed to pivot. At University I had trained in Graphics Design, had used 3D printers, knew how to tell a story, and could write at an academic level. I started to research careers that my skillset would suit and I came across Marketing roles through the Government Kickstart Scheme. The Scheme provided funding to employers who could create new jobs for young people at risk of long-term unemployment. It was an opportunity for me to Kickstart my career, get work experience and build my connections.

Due to the fast-paced nature of IoT Horizon, during my 6-month placement, I developed my skills in so many areas including Digital Marketing, Product Design, Video Editing, Communication, and Strategy. I’ve helped to establish a product design department, pitched my ideas, worked on the marketing strategy, designed user-interfaces (UI) customer dashboards for the Software Development Team and so much more…

The Kickstart Scheme gave me the opportunity to work with an innovative technology company that believed in what I have to offer and gave me the confidence to thrive. The opportunities for me are endless and very exciting! I’m looking forward to starting my full-time position as a Marketing Assistant and Product Designer for the business.

Having finished the Kickstart placement, my advice would be…go for it. There are so many opportunities for young people to thrive, but if you’re still unsure feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn.