Marketing Activation Intern Review

My placement was within CRM, Activation and Marketing. The main responsibility of my role was managing the end-to-end process of creating and deploying engaging email newsletters and lifecycle campaigns, from planning and writing compelling copy to collaborating with designers and agencies. I also took ownership of quality assurance, ensuring optimal email rendering across various platforms and devices. Additionally, my responsibilities included tracking campaign performance and providing regular reports.

During my placement, I significantly developed my knowledge of marketing and my digital skills, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the end-to-end process. I enhanced my copywriting abilities, learning to craft engaging and compelling content specifically for email campaigns. I also strengthened my project management skills, effectively coordinating with designers, managing external agencies, and ensuring timely delivery of campaigns. Furthermore, I gained valuable experience in email marketing platforms and analytics, enabling me to analyse campaign performance and generate insightful reports. My placement also provided valuable insights into the inner workings of a fast-paced e-commerce environment. Through close collaboration with the e-commerce team, I gained a strong understanding of backend processes and how various sub-teams work together to deliver a seamless online experience. This experience also significantly enhanced my communication and interpersonal skills as I navigated cross-functional projects and effectively conveyed ideas to stakeholders.

I was given a significant amount of responsibility during my placement. I independently managed the entire lifecycle of email marketing campaigns, from conception to deployment and analysis. This demonstrated my ability to take ownership of projects and deliver results in a fast-paced environment. I also became the point person for internal and external email communications. Beyond day-to-day tasks, I headed a complete creative refresh of our lifestyle email campaigns, taking them beyond the standard approach and demonstrating my ability to think strategically and implement innovative solutions. I was also entrusted to manage relationships with third-party agencies, taking the lead on communications, running meetings, and sourcing assets. This demonstrated my ability to take ownership of projects and deliver results in a fast-paced environment.

I received excellent support and guidance throughout my placement, a perfect balance between autonomy and mentorship. My manager and I had bi-weekly one-on-ones, providing a dedicated space to discuss projects, address challenges, and review my progress – both personally and professionally. It was an open and encouraging environment where no question was considered insignificant. Beyond my manager, the entire team fostered a supportive atmosphere. I felt like a valued member, not just an intern, and everyone was always willing to share their expertise and provide assistance whenever needed.

The company culture was very diverse and collaborative. The office had a fun, buzzing energy, and there were always colleagues around to learn from and network with. It was a highly engaging environment that fostered both personal and professional growth. The company clearly valued its interns, providing a dedicated committee that organised a wide range of events specifically for us. From summer parties and language lessons to office yoga sessions, quizzes and networking opportunities, there were countless ways to connect with fellow interns and feel part of a welcoming community. Beyond intern-specific events, there were also frequent divisional gatherings like breakfasts, drinks, and other social activities, fostering a strong culture across the company.

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement. The combination of engaging work, a supportive team environment, and a vibrant company culture made it a truly rewarding experience. I particularly valued the level of responsibility I was given, the opportunity to make a real impact, and the connections I built with colleagues across the company.

Yes

My advice for anyone applying to L'Oréal is to be genuinely enthusiastic, prepared, and showcase your creativity! The application process typically involves a CV, cover letter, and interview, so here's how to stand out. Research is Key: Go beyond the basics. Dive deep into L'Oréal's brands, values, and current initiatives and find what resonates with you personally. Showcase Your Passion: Your cover letter and interview responses should convey why you're specifically drawn to L'Oréal and what you admire about their company culture. Think Outside the Box: Particularly for a role within marketing, L'Oréal values creativity! Highlight Relevant Skills: Connect your past experiences to the role you're applying for. Emphasise skills like teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and leadership - all highly valued at L'Oréal.