One of our longest serving team members, Rachel, started at Webgains back in 2013 as an Account Executive, but before joining our team, she studied Film and TV Production, worked in PR and social media before making her way into affiliate marketing world. In the past few years, she has used her background and skills to become our UK Operations and Marketing Manager, organising our events and curating projects such as our latest Play it Forward Series.
Hi Rachel, welcome to being on the other side of our Meet the Team. As you know, our first question is, how do you like to start your working day?
I like to start my day with a big cup of coffee. My day does not begin until I have had that first cup, and then from there, I am ready to start my day. And now, as I’m taking part in Walk All Over Cancer 10,000 steps a day challenge throughout March for Cancer Research, I begin by doing 1000 steps before opening my laptop and seeing what I have planned for the day.
It sounds like a great start and a fantastic cause, and we look forward to supporting you with your challenge. Our next question, what do you do at Webgains, and in what circumstances would I come to you for something?
I’m the UK Operations & Marketing Manager, so you would most likely come to me for anything related to office management, events, social media and now video content. I manage a few projects within the marketing team, including our latest partnership with the Drum Open Mic and our Play it Forward series.
Who has influenced you most when it comes to how you approach your work?
It may sound very corny and very apt for the time of year, but my Mum has influenced me the most regarding my approach to work. I manage and organise my workload based on how she managed to work and look after myself and my siblings growing up after my Dad passed away. She showed me how to organise and prioritise when it comes to work and life and teach me that no matter what we do, even if we fail or don’t succeed, we should always be proud of ourselves and keep on going to reach our goals, and remember who we are.
Wise words, so tell us what’s the coolest thing you’re working on right now?
Right now, I’m working on several projects across both operations and marketing. Internally on social projects such as our Wellbeing Initiatives and Social Events (hopefully an in-person Summer Party) while also focussing on our Play it Forward series, working with our team, publishers & advertisers creating content for the next few months. So watch this space on our YouTube channel, as more content will be coming out soon.
What’s a mistake you made early on in your career, and what did you learn from it?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. I remember early on, when I first started working post-University, I’d take on so many projects that I would end up overwhelmed and not being able to fulfil tasks and feeling like I had failed or not showcased my best work. I’d feel tired and stressed and not tell anyone. Over the years, I’ve learnt that it’s never a bad thing to ask for help, as at the end of the day, we are all working together to reach the same goals, and a little help can go a long way.
It definitely can, so what has been your experience of working at Webgains so far?
This year marks my 8th year working at Webgains, and like working at any company, for me, it’s been a bit of a rollercoaster. With some incredible highs and some minor lows, I’ve seen the company go through many changes to get where we are today. We never stop learning, and I think that’s what is great about working here, as it’s not just the company that doesn’t stop learning and growing. I’ve made so many great friends over the years and seen them leave to go on to new ventures that I know that if the day comes when I decide to go on my own new adventure, I’ll always have my Webgains family to support me.
Thanks, Rachel, and what’s one thing that surprised you about working at Webgains?
I’ve been here for so long now that I’m still surprised by the fantastic staff we hire. Each new staff member brings an amazing wealth of talent and skills that help keep us moving forward. I always enjoy getting to meet each of them and welcoming them to our Webgains Family. Also seeing all their hidden talents too, we have some great singers and dancers in this company.
We look forward to seeing some of those soon, and finally, what would you say is your secret talent that no one knows?
I don’t think there’s much my team don’t know about me, but maybe my dance background. I did freestyle disco dancing throughout my childhood and teen years, getting to ISTD Pre Bronze Level, and taking part in many competitions and performances, including performing at the London Palladium with my dance school. Think Dance Moms, but without the drama!
Amazing! We hope to see some of your dance moves too at our next Summer party! Thanks, Rachel, for taking the time to chat with us.