INTERVIEW WITH ALLANAH MICALLEF, DIGITAL EXECUTIVE (UTILITA ENERGY)

Welcome to an interview with Allanah Micallef, Digital Marketing Executive at Utilita Energy. Allanah shares her journey in marketing, from discovering her passion to navigating the challenges of entering the industry as a postgraduate. She discusses the pivotal role of managers, and colleagues, emphasising the importance of a supportive work environment. Join us for a glimpse into Allanah's inspirations, the impact of her work, and the joy she finds in both professional and personal endeavours. This interview is a celebration of passion, perseverance, and the belief that every small step contributes to a meaningful journey.

How did you discover your passion for marketing, and what steps did you take to pursue it?

I always knew I had a passion for marketing in some shape or form from a very young age. I kept up with the latest trends and the newest YouTubers, which then led to new social media platforms. I was quite lucky that I was of a hood age when tech innovated so quickly. I chose media in every aspect I could: my GCSEs,  Levels, Degree. I was a covid uni student and I do feel like a lot of the internship and placement opportunities were taken away, so I tried to do any marketing volunteering I could do.

What has been the most challenging aspect of your career/journey so far, and how did you overcome it?

Getting into marketing was by far the most challenging aspect of my career. It is tough out there, with most entry level roles requiring years of experience, which as a fresh post graduate I didn’t have. I adapted my CV to highlight everything I had done/was doing (volunteering roles, courses etc) and made sure that I was up-to-date in every trend. I made use of my LinkedIn account for this. I also made sure that when I was interviewing I conveyed my passion and was honest if I was lacking knowledge in areas. The willingness to learn is key. 

Have you had a mentor who played a crucial role in your career? How did they impact your journey?

I did not have a mentor as such, but I do find that my managers and colleagues impact my journey. Having people there that is supportive of your own personal journey and is generally interested in what you are doing for your career and how they can support you is amazing. 

What's your take on diversity?

Diversity (especially in the workplace) is so so important. Fostering a sense of belonging for all employees in the workplace is the key for success. I believe a marketing department strives with a diverse workforce as you gain insight into new ideas, beliefs, values etc that relates to your wider audience. It makes sure that everyone is heard and celebrated. 

What has attracted you to WIDD Network?

The work WIDD Network is doing to help women land roles in the industry and the commitment to champion women’s success is amazing. I have watched so many friends struggle to get their dream role (especially coming out of university), and I feel sometimes we need that support system to push us back up again and keep us going. 

What trends or developments in marketing do you find most exciting right now?

Cliche, maybe? But I am absolutely loving the transition from celebrity branding to UGC (user generated content). People relate to people. This marketing has changed from a sales like script to watching a video or reading a post from someone who could generally by your friend. Making sales more relatable has been the answer for some major companies. 

Your favourite social media platform?

Ahhh. It’s got to be LinkedIn at the moment. Unfortunately I am a lot cooler there than I am on Instagram these days. But I cannot ignore the fact that I do also scroll on TikTok for hours before bed too. 

How do you envision the impact of your work in the long term, and what legacy do you hope to leave?

I really hope that I can inspire people who feel like they are stuck in a never ending loop of rejection emails. We have all been there and it is defeating. I absolutely love what I am doing now and I want as many people as possible to feel the same, instead of facing the Sunday scaries. If I can share a few tips, or links to great educational resources that have helped me, and they succeed, that’s all I can ask for. 

Outside work, what hobbies or activities bring you joy and recharge your creativity?

It’s sad to say that marketing is my joy! I try as much as often to up-skill in my career, whether that’s taking a course to help my knowledge, or talk to people that are struggling on LinkedIn. 

Is there a mantra or guiding principle that you live by in both your personal and professional life?

I find my self saying, “it’s better than nothing” a lot. One ‘like’ on your LinkedIn post? Well it’s better than nothing. You are always working from the ground up. I saw another mantra about just doing things scared. I am the first person to admit that doing things for the first time is terrifying, but you have two options: Don’t do it, or do it scared. It’s breaking over that mental boundary, and then realising it wasn’t so bad after all. 

Who’s inspires you (your inspirational woman or man -alive or not)?

Those I love around me are my biggest inspirations. My parents have been my no.1 supporters from day one. They have worked so incredibly hard to give my sister and I a great life, so being able to do something I love and make them proud at the same time is a win. 

What's your favourite quote?

“Comparison is the thief of joy. It’s so easy to compare yourself to other people (especially ones you know or of similar age).” 

“You are on your own incredible path whether you think so or not. The more you give, the more you will get”. 

Connect with Allanah on LinkedIn

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