Welcome Annika Shoker: Our New Junior PR Account Executive at Motive

Last week we were joined by Annika Shoker, who’s come in as junior PR account exec. Let’s find out more about our new recruit:

Hi Annika, welcome to Motive. What were you doing before joining us?

I only just wrapped up uni around three weeks ago, so it’s been a bit of a whirlwind going straight from completing assignments into full time work but I wouldn’t change it. I know how hard it’s been for some people to find jobs so I’m very grateful!

Why did you choose to study journalism as university?

I’ve always enjoyed writing andI’ve always had an interest in pop culture, current affairs and controversial topics... especially when they’re linked to making a bigger change in the world. Because of this journalism just seemed like a perfect fit for me.

What work placements or work experience have you had in the past?

I did a short placement in a newsroom in my second year of university. It helped me to realise that sort of environment wasn’t really for me and made me focus on PR.

How did you become interested in PR?

I like the creativity that comes along with PR and marketing. I find it interesting how campaigns create a buzz on social media

How did you hear that Motive were hiring?

One of my tutors sent round an email detailing the vacancy. I just took the opportunity and applied!

What has it been like having to finish up your degree studies and embark on a job hunt during a global pandemic? How did it impact you?

It’s been a bit up and down. I definitely adapted and sometimes I was even more productive. But at the same time, being cooped up in your room isn’t easy and that work-life balance become even more important, so I always made time to go out for a bit in the day whether that was for lunch with friends or a bit of a walk. When it came to the job hunt I just tried to be persistent and did my best not to get disheartened. I knew that if I kept at it that something would come eventually.

What brands do you think do a brilliant job with their marketing?

I think Pretty Little Thing do a really great job with their social media marketing, especially when it comes to things like brand ambassadors. Another campaign that I thought was really cool was when Sony took over Oxford’s tube station to promote the launch of the PlayStation 5 last year. The inside of the station changed to the different shapes found on thePlayStation remote, it looked really cool.

What sort of PR are you most looking forward to doing at Motive?

I’m looking forward to getting involved with digital PR work, it’s definitely taken over and it’s the best way to get exposure. I think it would be cool to learn a bit more about content marketing and get involved with that and social media too.

Outside of work what do you like doing in your free time?

I like to just spend time with my family and friends doing whatever, whether that’s just watching movies or going out and about. I live right in Nottingham city centre so getting out and about is pretty easy.

My new years resolution was to read more so I try to fit that in when I can. I think my favourite book so far is How To Make It Happen by Maria Hatzistefanis.