My experience with Whitecroft:
In just two weeks, I've gained valuable insights into how a real business works in practice, by witnessing Whitecroft’s impressive operations and experiencing their core values in action.
From day one, the tour of departments showcased how operations and processes interconnect and rely upon close collaboration, to enable efficient and effective changes throughout the business. This high level of interdepartmental cooperation was a standout feature for me.
I’ve gained a greater appreciation too, of the importance of organisational culture during my experience. Whitecroft's commitment to innovation, teamwork, and continuous improvement is truly impressive and is evident in their substantial investments, such as a state-of-the-art social hub and a £2 million solar panels project.
Importantly for me, experiencing the company’s openness to new ideas and their "Curious Creators", “Committed Together” and "Aim Higher" values firsthand, has felt dynamic, forward-thinking and exciting. This has helped me to become clearer about what’s important to me and the type of organisation I want to work for, in the future.
The Importance of Working Environment:
During my time, I’ve had the opportunity to interact with people from various departments across the business. Whilst I was unsure what to expect before I arrived, I found everyone friendly and welcoming which really helped to soothe any nerves, stop me from feeling overwhelmed and enable me to make the most of my opportunity.
The marketing department, where I’ve been based, in particular, has given me a useful model for striking the balance between professionalism and a friendly workplace atmosphere.
This balance helped me feel more at ease in a new business environment and ready to learn. Team members were open and ready to share their expertise and always encouraged me to ask questions and seek any clarification, which is a top tip for making the most of any work experience. This support ensured that I did not feel lost or out of my depth while working on projects and tasks assigned to me.
Overall, the welcoming and supportive environment in the marketing team has been crucial in easing my transition into the company and making me feel like a valued member of the team in a very short amount of time.
Getting Hands-on:
Creating a Marketing Strategy - I had the privilege of working on a real-world project to create a marketing strategy for Whitecroft’s new, sustainable packaging solution. Being given responsibility for this task was amazing and was a significant highlight of my experience with Whitecroft.
The task involved extensive research and analysing data to understand the new proposition and its benefits for existing and new customers, which I really enjoyed. Then, the creation of an innovative marketing strategy and campaign, to launch it successfully.
Whilst the project was challenging, it was achievable, and the supportive environment meant I felt trusted to achieve a positive outcome, which in turn, built my confidence.
I found the experience of generating ideas and contributing to something meaningful for the business, hugely motivating. The experience went well beyond typical university lectures. Crucially, it allowed me to apply my knowledge practically in a business setting, helping me clarify my strengths and interests within marketing and highlight areas, such as presentation skills - something I want to develop further.
Filming & Photography - I also had the opportunity to participate in the filming and photographing of the Foil and Avenue Metro lights installation which was an eye-opening experience. I explored different camera shots and visuals to effectively communicate the ease of installation to customers and better understand how different images and filming styles can convey different messages. This experience enhanced and broadened my skills in visual storytelling and content creation, and has offered me another unique perspective on marketing and opportunities for development.
Experiencing a Product Launch Live - In my second week, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in a live product launch, witnessing firsthand how the Whitecroft team engages with the internal audience during presentations. Observing various presenting styles and techniques was incredibly insightful, and I aim to integrate and
apply these as I progress. I also learned about different creative and slick marketing strategies, from branded merchandise to interactive initiatives like the LinkedIn contest, to showcase the company's strengths and values.
Beyond the presentations, I also got an important glimpse into the diverse range of customers that Whitecroft serves and the depth of relationships they foster as part of the way they do business. This experience highlighted the importance of genuine engagement and storytelling in building strong customer relationships.
The Benefits of Work Experience:
Undoubtedly, my decision to seek out work experience was a good one and I am hugely fortunate to have had the opportunity to do this within such a supportive environment as Whitecroft Lighting. Many thanks to all the Whitecroft team.
The experience has enabled me to increase my real-world business awareness and dive deeper to learn how marketing functions in practise. In doing so, it has provided me with a better understanding of my strengths to build on, areas where I can develop further and confirmed that a career in marketing/sales is something I would like to pursue.
I feel motivated and inspired to seek out more opportunities and internships to continue to grow my skills, confidence and experience. I want to apply and embed my knowledge in practice beyond the classroom, and I’m excited about the prospect of my year in industry in 2025-2026.
For anyone thinking of gaining work experience, I can thoroughly recommend it.
"Hello, I am Adam Burchett. I am an enthusiastic and hardworking student, currently completing my first year of a Business Management Degree at LJMU. I have a particular interest in marketing and sales and I was keen to gain marketing-based work experience, where I could contribute and build upon my existing skills, develop new ones and learn more about marketing and business in practice."
Interested in work experience?
Contact: Warren.young@whitecroftlight.com
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