My Top Tips for Getting Involved in the Multiverse Community - Elle Birrell King
(2 min read)
Elle Birrell King is a level 3 Digital Marketing apprentice at Cremarc.
One of the best things about being a Multiverse apprentice is the different opportunities available on the Community Hub. Yes, there are opportunities but how can you make the most of them?
If I could give any advice to someone just about to start their apprenticeship, I would say ‘GET INVOLVED’! From leading your own tutorial to even writing content on the hub, the structure of the Multiverse apprenticeship programme and the ‘20% Off the Job’ hours really exemplify this opportunity. It enables you to make the most of all the different events, networks, and programmes available on the Community Hub.
Since the beginning of my apprenticeship, I decided to make a conscious decision to get involved in all things Multiverse, which has helped me both professionally and personally. I have written articles on behalf of the Community Hub, led my own training event, and even hosted a webinar for the Women’s Network with hundreds of attendees, all of which helped develop my written and spoken communication, leadership, and networking skills. By getting involved with all these opportunities, I have been able to expand my network, meet apprentices and have access to opportunities I never thought possible at this stage of my career. So here is my guide for getting involved and making the most of your apprenticeship experience:
(1) Join the mentor programme: The mentoring scheme was the first Multiverse programme I joined and has been incredibly valuable to my progression. This is a four-month program where apprentices get matched up with an inspirational mentor outside their business. In my opinion, this programme is an essential part of the apprenticeship experience as it is vital to have someone removed from your workplace to give you honest and impartial advice. Not only does this scheme help improve your networking and interpersonal skills but is an opportunity to reflect on your apprenticeship journey. My mentor was amazing; she provided me with advice, support and even created a presentation to document my progression in completing my apprenticeship objectives.
(2) Join networks: The Community Hub Networks offers the chance to connect with other apprentices who share the same beliefs and interests as you. There are several different Networks, including PRISM (LGBTQ+) Network, Women's Network and Multicultural Network. I am proud to say that I am one of the chairs for the Women's Network, where we help coordinate and host events and produce monthly newsletters. It can be hard to build connections and meet other apprentices during a pandemic. However, joining Networks has enabled me to meet so many apprentices I may not have met if I hadn't participated in such networks.
(3) Lead community events: Not only can you attend events to upskill, but you can also lead them yourself! The topic and structure of your event are up to you; you could run an event or teach a skill. Conducting an event is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your expertise and improve upon your confidence through public speaking. When the opportunity arose to lead an event, I decided to go out of my comfort zone and sign up. With the support and guidance of Daisy from the Multiverse Community team, I felt confident and prepared. My session taught the basics of Canva, and although it was nerve-wracking, I am more confident in my public speaking, leadership, and organisational skills.
If you are interested in any of the opportunities mentioned, follow the link to them to find out how to apply/get involved!