Kayleigh, our graphic designer at Alliance gives us an account of how her first 12 months has been since joining
On the eighth of March this year, I celebrated my one-year anniversary as a team Alliance member, and what a year it’s been. We celebrated with coffee and cake, and I found myself filled with a sense of achievement and happiness. So, what has this year taught me? And where does it go from here?
One of the very first things that comes to mind when I reflect on my time at Alliance, is just how different it is compared to my university years. That might sound like an obvious statement, but throughout my time in education I was taught that I was ‘being prepared’ for the real world, and it turns out that – it’s nothing like the real world! However, I have learnt that the ‘real world’ is a beautiful place to work in.
I’ve worked on various projects throughout the year, from logos to layouts to print. One of our projects even made its way across the world to Bangladesh… (and on TV!). I’ve met wonderful people and it’s been nothing but a pleasure to work with them and make their visions a reality. The number of clients we work with has continued to grow throughout the year, and there really is never a dull day at the office.
Another thing that stands out about my time at Alliance is the amount of networking that we do. Of course there’s the client meetings and business hunting, but we also network with many business groups such as the Dragons of Newport, BNI and Torfaen Business Voice. This helps us meet potential clients yes, but it also means being a part of the community – something we pride ourselves on.
Due to all of this – the portfolio of work we’re building, the networks we’re a part of, the strong team we’re becoming – my confidence has blossomed more than I ever thought it could. Not only am I growing as a designer, I’m growing as a person, and I really do have the guys at Alliance to thank for that. Not only do they encourage me in my work, they encouraged me in my journey through learning to drive. Now, a whole year later, I’m officially allowed behind the wheel of a car (even if it took me two tries…!).
My whole year has been filled with positivity, and that’s why it’s all a bit strange that in my 12th month at Alliance, I’m writing this from my own home due to COVID-19. It’s a very surreal feeling… usually we’re bustling around in the office – a hub of laughter and positivity. Now we’re at home, surrounded by the uneasy feeling of the unknown.
With all that said however, we at Alliance won’t let it get us down! We’re still open for business and are working harder than ever to provide our clients the support they need in these uncertain times. We’re also having daily meetings via Zoom to keep up to date – no one can get rid of us that easy!
Overall, my first year at Alliance has been absolutely amazing and I can’t thank Gareth and Matt enough for letting me be a part of this fantastic team. It’s onwards and upwards from here. I can’t wait to continue being part of a growing team… so watch this space!
Stay home and stay safe everyone, let’s get through this together and think about the positive times ahead!
Photograph courtesy of MKS Photography
