eLearning mistakes

5 Common Mistakes to Avoid With Your eLearning

eLearning mistakes

There are many mistakes instructional designers can make when creating an eLearning course. In this blog post, we’ll be going through five common mistakes to avoid when creating your eLearning.

#1 Bombarding the learner with text

Having too much text on the screen bombards the learner with information. Make it more digestible by using concise sentences.

#2 Not following learning goals and objectives

Achieving the learning goals should be the top priority. It’s important to have identified these learning goals before you start development. Without undertaking this exercise, the eLearning will likely be an ineffective brain dump, rather than a quality learning experience.

#3 Forgetting about the target audience

When creating eLearning, you always want to have the target audience in mind. Research into your target audience. Take into account their level of education, their learning style, and what they will be expecting from the course. If you build with these points in mind, you’ll be far more likely to create a solution that keeps your target learners engaged.

Read more: Tailoring Your Learning Content to Your Audience

#4 Difficult navigation

Unintuitive navigation will frustrate learners and diminish completion. Think about the interface and most importantly have a real target learner test it before launch. Watch them progress through the course and any time they look confused about what to do next, you know you have something to fix.

#5 Using too many distracting graphics

An eLearning course that has too much going on visually will likely distract the learner. Like the use of too much text, too much imagery will only distract the learner, especially if they’re not relevant to the topic.


How GuyKat Promotes Lifelong Learning, As Told By GuyKat’s Noor, Graduate Trainee

lifelong learningAs part of Learning at Work Week, we spoke with one of GuyKat’s Graduate Trainees, Noor, to get her perspective on how we promote lifelong learning at GuyKat.

About Learning at Work Week

Learning at Work Week is a national event that takes place in May. Co-ordinated by Campaign for Learning, the aim of the week is to promote a culture of workplace learning.

Learning at Work’s theme this year is 'Learning Uncovered.' It aims to enrich our understanding, knowledge, and attitudes toward lifelong learning by exploring:

  • The importance of lifelong learning and supporting it 
  • What we can do as individuals and in our work communities to promote lifelong learning 
  • Lifelong learning's benefits and opportunities for work and life 

Read more: 5 Benefits of Promoting Lifelong Learning in the Workplace

Tell me what you think of GuyKat’s approach to learning. How does it help you become more effective in your work? 

I find GuyKat’s approach to learning very encouraging. We’re always encouraged to help others and participate in knowledge-sharing sessions where we can learn from one another. We’re also encouraged to spend time on individual learning, and have the option to book individual learning time in our calendars where we spend time getting to grips with a specific topic. As long as you’re showing commitment to your own learning, GuyKat is very flexible in how you approach that.

How do you feel about the practical learning you’ve experienced at GuyKat compared to your experience at university?

The learning experience I’ve had at GuyKat is so different from my experience at university. At GuyKat, the learning is much more hands-on in the sense that I can steer my learning in the direction that I would like to take it. Learning at university compared to working in a real job scenario can be quite different. However, I have gained useful transferable skills which have been beneficial to my role.

How does GuyKat support your learning?

Guy, the Founder & CEO of GuyKat, arranges monthly one-to-one meetings where we discuss how we are doing, any goals we would like to work towards, and have a general check-in to make sure we are doing okay, which I really appreciate. During my content rotation, I am also assigned an ‘onBuddy’, which refers to an onboarding buddy. An onboarding buddy is someone who is designated to each graduate who we go to for support and frequent check-ins. Our weekly meetings allow us to speak with someone who is very familiar with your role, as they have done it themselves, and gives us a chance to learn from more experienced colleagues.

Why do you think it’s important to work for a company that supports lifelong learning?

Being a part of a company like GuyKat, that supports lifelong learning, is really helpful to our personal development as we're encouraged to continually learn new skills. People want to feel that they're evolving and going up the career ladder, rather than remaining in their current position, so working for a company that supports learning is highly valuable. Additionally, GuyKat is very good at understanding each person's individual strengths and taking into account their differences.

What’s the most valuable piece of learning you’ve gained from working at GuyKat?

Since joining GuyKat, I've learned how to manage my own time very well. The roles at GuyKat are very autonomous. Our teams are trusted to work to deadlines and encouraged to take full responsibility for their own schedules/tasks. I have also become a lot more confident in myself, because of the learning and growth opportunities GuyKat has provided me.

What do you enjoy the most about learning?

I enjoy trying new things and the variety that brings. No day is ever the same when you’re learning something new.


5 Benefits of Promoting Lifelong Learning in the Workplace

In honour of Learning at Work Week, we’re sharing five benefits of promoting lifelong learning in the workplace. 

About Learning at Work Week

Learning at Work Week is a national event that takes place in May. Co-ordinated by Campaign for Learning, the aim of the week is to promote a culture of workplace learning. 

Learning at Work’s theme this year is 'Learning Uncovered.' It aims to enrich our understanding, knowledge, and attitudes toward lifelong learning by exploring:

  • The importance of lifelong learning and supporting it 
  • What we can do as individuals and in our work communities to promote lifelong learning 
  • Lifelong learning's benefits and opportunities for work and life 

At GuyKat, we are committed to creating a culture of learning and actively encourage our employees to engage in lifelong learning. In fact, our recruitment efforts focus on finding people who have a strong desire to learn - people who are committed to their own personal growth. But what are the benefits of promoting lifelong learning in the workplace?

#1 Enhances skillset & productivity 

The more time people spend learning, the more skills they acquire. Engaging in lifelong learning can stimulate curiosity, which has an effect on an employee's working attitude. This benefits both employers and employees, as employees who engage in lifelong learning are more productive and fill any skill gaps that may exist within the organisation. This also reduces recruitment costs, since companies with an expanded set of skills within their employees will be able to cover the growing needs, which is much cheaper than advertising new jobs online.

#2 Improves mental well-being & self-confidence

When people become more knowledgeable or skilled in a specific area, it increases their self-confidence in all aspects of their life - both professionally and personally. Engaging in lifelong learning can improve an employee's confidence and ability to apply what they've learned in the workplace. Additionally, learning new skills helps employees discover a new sense of purpose, which improves their self-confidence and well-being, and makes them more likely to progress their careers further.

#3 Improves client satisfaction

Not only does encouraging lifelong learning boost employee motivation, but it also improves the client’s satisfaction because the employee now knows new ways to approach their work. As a result, businesses can thrive.

#4 It can create a more collaborative working environment

Employees who are encouraged to learn often do so by learning about each other's roles within the company. This gives them a deeper understanding of departments outside their own. Both employees and organisations benefit from this since it allows them to remain aligned on their goals and promotes collaboration among teams. By empowering employees to teach other employees, they deepen their skills of communication and teamwork. Additionally, this will foster a culture of learning throughout the organisation.

#5 Employee loyalty is increased 

When an organisation dedicates time to its employees, it motivates them to stay with the company for a longer period. When employees feel valued, they build trust with their employers, as well as their confidence. 

Need some ideas on how to promote lifelong learning within your organisation? Check out our article on How GuyKat Promotes Lifelong Learning, As Told By GuyKat's Noor, Graduate Trainee.


Learn more about GuyKat’s Learning Technology Capability Maturity Model at Learning Technologies 2022

A Capability Maturity Model (CMM) is a tool that helps organisations understand where they rank for a specific capability. GuyKat’s CMM provides a benchmark in learning technology. Having a benchmark helps a business develop a plan to grow from their current level of capability to their desired level.

A free seminar on the Learning Capability Maturity Model will be held at London's Learning Technologies event this May, which is open to anyone who has an interest in learning more about the CMM.

The model is for:

  • Learning and Development Professionals

Do you work in L&D but do not know what level of technology investment you should make to support your learning goals?

  • Functional Leaders

In your business, are you responsible for ensuring best practices? Or are you responsible for creating a centre of excellence for a specific function (such as sales or finance)?

  • Partner Enablement Professionals

Do you want your partners, distributors, and suppliers to benefit from the knowledge you share with them?

  • Learning Technology Professionals

Are you involved in the sale or implementation of Learning Technology?

If you’re interested in finding out more, catch GuyKat’s Founder & CEO, Guy McEvoy,  at Theatre 8 on Thursday 5th May at 3:30pm. You can find GuyKat on stand M30 during both days of the event.

 


GuyKat Exhibiting at Learning Technologies 2022

We are excited to be exhibiting at Europe's leading workplace learning event - Learning Technologies 2022. The event will highlight how technology can support and enhance learning in the workplace.

The event will take place at the London ExCel on Wednesday 4th and Thursday 5th May. Featuring over 9000 attendees from 50 different countries, 200 seminars, and 200 exhibitors, Learning Technologies continues to grow in importance, value, and attendance each year. A major focus this year is new tools and approaches that can transform workplace learning today, as well as what will have a significant impact in the future. Located right by the catering point, you can find GuyKat at stand M30 - come say hi! 

GuyKat's Founder & CEO, Guy McEvoy, will be providing a free seminar at Theatre 8 on Thursday 5th May at 3:30pm to discuss our Capability and Maturity Model (CMM) that was developed for Learning Tech. The seminar will detail how using this framework can help benchmark your current capability, but more importantly how to use the tool to help you define what you're trying to achieve with your tech and aid the creation of a transformation plan to get there. Key insights from the application of the CMM in various organisations will be shared. This is a valuable tool for anyone creating a business plan for investment in Learning Tech.

Our new partners, FLOWSPARKS, will be at Bitesize Learning Zone 2 on Wednesday 4th at 1:35pm, where they will discuss ways to create eLearning without the help of a didactic, graphic designer, or technical expert.

Read more: FLOWSPARKS joins forces with GuyKat in a new global partnership


FLOWSPARKS joins forces with GuyKat in a new global partnership

We are pleased to announce a new partnership with FLOWSPARKS, an intuitive content authoring solution. FLOWSPARKS guides authors to create great-looking interactive content based on proven instructional design principles.

GuyKat's core competency is supporting international customers in designing their digital learning paths. Our partnership with FLOWSPARKS will enable us to offer our clients an intuitive tool to create their own content based on sound instructional design. GuyKat will continue to offer bespoke end-to-end content creation as a core offering. However, there is an increasing trend of organizations wishing to bring their content creation in-house, FLOWSPARKS bridges this gap. Clients benefit by having timely, low-cost access to a wide range of learning options coupled with our expertise in all aspects of the project delivery lifecycle. The content created using FLOWSPARKS can be deployed on any standard LMS.

“We are extremely proud of our partnership with GuyKat, and our shared mission to empower customers by giving them access to the most advanced digital learning environment. We can rely on each other to offer not only best in class learning products but are also aligned on striving for the most excellent customer care.” - FLOWSPARKS Chief Commercial Officer, Cédric Herregodts

“We’re excited to help bring FLOWSPARKS to the UK and US. There are some great intuitive authoring tools on the market but the thing we love about FLOWSPARKS is that it forces the user to add proven instructional design thinking into content. Beautiful design without instructional design is just eye candy. It’s the instructional design that ensures learning has impact. We’ve not seen any other authoring solution that has this guidance baked in. This is a game-changer.” - CEO & Founder of GuyKat, Guy McEvoy


David's Senior Consultant Experience at GuyKat

David joined GuyKat as an Instructional Designer in 2015. He now works as a Senior Consultant. Today he shares what his role at GuyKat involves, and how he is finding it.

What is your role at GuyKat and how long have you been working here?

 I work as a Senior Consultant, and I’ve been at GuyKat for 7 years.

What does your job as a Senior Consultant entail?  

I’m very happy to have a lot of variety in my day-to-day activities. Every day is different. Primarily my activities involve:

  • Meeting with clients to discuss their requirements
  • Hands-on configuration on Learning Management System (LMS) Docebo
  • Calls with new clients about upcoming business opportunities
  • Internal communication regarding ongoing projects
  • Keeping up with the day-to-day needs of my peers

How did you begin your journey as a Senior Consultant?

I actually joined GuyKat as an Instructional Designer, however, I quickly pivoted to the services revolving around Docebo and began working in a hybrid role of sales, account management, and technical support. Soon I became a Consultant and over time have become a Senior Consultant and now work within our leadership team.

What were you doing before joining GuyKat?

 Before GuyKat I worked for a couple of creative agencies producing video content and educational materials.

What made you initially decide to apply to GuyKat?

Trying to find a new role that would allow me to grow and perform at my best was important to me. Throughout my career, I have gained a lot of media production and business development skills, but I wanted to move to the next level and work in the corporate world. I guess I was looking for a new challenge!

How did you find the interview process?

The interview process was very relaxed. I was asked several questions about my experience but also about my learning style and technical skills. I was keen to show my interest in making the switch to a new industry sector and even demonstrated some work I had carried out in preparation for the interview.

What do you like the most about your job?

Mainly that through my actions and support from our CEO, Guy, I have built my own role and contributed to the growth of the company, essentially generating revenue, creating jobs for new team members, and serving our wide set of clients with the best service we can.

What’s the most exciting project you’re working on right now?

I’ve worked on many exciting projects but one, in particular, comes to mind, I’ve actually just presented internally at one of our company ‘Away Days’ the success that we have had over the last two years working with one of the leading educational toy manufacturers. We worked closely with this client to help them succeed with their implementation of a full online educational offering to support their product lines. It feels good to know that a project I have worked on is enhancing teacher and student education around the world.

Did you have any concerns about joining GuyKat?

At the time the company was relatively small so I asked questions about the business direction and the more I heard the more I found myself wanting to get involved and drive the business forward. I felt reassured by the CEO and his desire to grow the business and work with some of the biggest companies in the world.

How were these concerns diminished? 

GuyKat was already serving some huge clients and with the partnership with Docebo, and there was clearly an opportunity to get involved in a growth period.

How have you grown since being at GuyKat?

Personally, I have matured immensely. This has been through a combination of support from my peers, business development opportunities, and having the freedom to forge a career that best suits my personality and ability. I have worked with the team to develop our services and client portfolio and have enjoyed seeing a larger team develop around me.

What makes GuyKat unique?

We always try to stay on our toes and have a ‘day one’ approach to every day. I think this approach keeps GuyKat fresh. It allows us to continue to develop ourselves and our services which delights our clients.

What has your experience been with GuyKat company culture?

Everyone is so kind and supportive at GuyKat. It’s easy to get along with a team that loves to continue to learn, adapt and shape the company. We have a number of values at GuyKat. The one I like the most is ‘accountability.’ Upholding this value on an individual basis ensures that our team is committed and delivers. Plus, we feel responsible and trusted.

What kind of support do you receive from the team?

I have regular one-to-ones with our CEO, Guy, who provides me with plenty of guidance and challenged me to continue developing. As well as this we align yearly to review development, reflect on the past year and decide on goals for the next. I now carry out my own one-to-ones with my peers and also participate in the yearly reviews for other team members.

How did you find the onboarding process? 

I was given access to plenty of digital resources and given quite a lot of freedom to learn how things worked. I jumped in on every meeting I could to build my knowledge and ability. Everyone chipped in and shared their experience with me so I could move forward quickly.

Any advice on those interested in pursuing a career at GuyKat?

We’re in an interesting industry that is constantly evolving. The opportunities are endless. For me, it was the best career move I’ve made, and I haven’t looked back. I’ve been at the company for over six years and for me each day feels new. I’m happy with what I have achieved and feel like there is plenty more to do!  


Jack's LMS Analyst Experience at GuyKat

Jack joined GuyKat in 2017 as an apprentice and now works as an LMS Analyst. In a few weeks, Jack will be going on a 10-week secondment to our US office where he will be supporting our American team. Today he shares how he has found his career journey so far at GuyKat. 

What is your role at GuyKat and how long have you been working here?

My role at GuyKat is LMS Analyst and I’ve been working here for 5 years.

What does your job as LMS Analyst entail? 

My day-to-day mostly consists of project management, project support, and providing answers to tickets as part of our platform enablement team. This can be anything from recommending how a client can expand their platform to simply resetting passwords. I also work on platform fixes and give advice on client queries which could be answering a question on courses, or it could be working closely with the client to roll out a new series of courses, or investigating platform downtime and running maintenance.

How did you begin your journey as LMS Analyst?

I began my apprenticeship working in the content team. This involved working on eLearning projects and updating eLearning modules, using Adobe Captivate to create and edit modules for the rest of the team. I was then offered the chance to switch departments and work within the platform enablement team.

What were you doing before joining GuyKat?

Before GuyKat, I worked a couple of jobs. I ran a ticketing system and updated item trackers as an apprentice and afterward experienced a short stint with the BBC in a traineeship based around Digital Marketing.

What made you initially decide to apply to GuyKat?

I applied to GuyKat with a limited understanding of what eLearning was. However, the apprenticeship scheme with GuyKat caught my eye as they offered me a flexible role that allowed me to dip my toe into each department, letting me find what I really want to do. At the time, I wanted to do something creative and GuyKat seemed the perfect fit to allow me to test my skills and grow that knowledge.

How did you find the interview process?

The interview process was smooth. Being interviewed by two people can seem daunting but the team was very friendly and calmed my nerves. Being able to talk to the CEO, Guy, about my hobbies outside of work put my mind at ease, and afterward, I was very much hoping for a callback!

What do you like the most about your job?

The perfect mixture of big client names and the people I work with. The clients that I get to work with are global and everyone knows who they are. Being able to tell friends and family who I get to work with day in and day out is exciting! Most importantly, however, the people at GuyKat make working here incredible. The hiring process is always spot on as we are all similar kinds of people all in similar stages in life. You’ll always be able to start a conversation with anyone on anything. Everyone is happy to meet outside of work to go to the pub or to a concert.

What’s the most exciting project you’re working on right now?

At the moment we have a few really exciting projects. I’m in the middle of working with a personal care brand and Docebo directly to create a brand new reporting structure. The work involves running and pulling reporting data which will allow the brand to better understand how their users in different countries are doing. This project is exciting for me because the brand is excited about it. When working on a project like this where you know the work you're doing will have a massive impact on how the client functions makes it very satisfying.

Did you have any concerns about joining GuyKat?

At the time, GuyKat was small, with only about 6 employees however I was aware of the prospect of quick growth. My only concern for me really was that everything was brand new as I’d never worked in eLearning before.

How were these concerns diminished? 

These worries were diminished quickly thanks to the support of the team. I had my questions answered quickly and even got given one on one time to pick up the software quicker.

How have you grown since being at GuyKat?

My people skills have especially grown since joining GuyKat. I never saw myself being on calls talking directly to clients but being able to grow into the role you want to do helped me to get over the ‘fear’ of talking to multiple people. I was able to shadow the more experienced staff on client calls and internal meetings to see how they manage their conversations with the client and track updates, tasks, and issues internally.

What makes GuyKat unique?

For me, it's the staff. It's very rare that you get a workplace like GuyKat’s where everyone gets on and shares similar hobbies and interests.

What has your experience been with GuyKat company culture?

Company culture is amazing, it's always good fun going into the office and catching up with everyone. Every time the team gets together, it's always a great time!

What kind of support do you receive from the team?

The support is great, you can always find someone to give advice or help you on a task. It's almost like no man gets left behind. With everyone willing to chip in and help whenever they can. Working in the platform enablement team you really see this. Sometimes the department can get overwhelmed with tickets. When this does happen, the entire platform team is ready to answer a few questions, making my work days less stressful.

Any advice on those interested in pursuing a career at GuyKat?

Do it! We’re always looking for new people who are creative or technical. You’ll be welcomed into the team and learn many new skills.


Amelia's Graduate Trainee Experience at GuyKat

Amelia joined GuyKat’s Graduate Scheme in 2021 where she experienced different placements around all areas of the business. She has recently completed the scheme and is now working as a Learning Experience Designer (UI/UX). Today she reflects on her Graduate Trainee experience at GuyKat.

What is your role at GuyKat and how long have you been working here?

I joined GuyKat in 2021 and have just recently completed the Graduate Scheme. I now work as a Learning Experience Designer.

What did you do on the Graduate Scheme?

My time on the Graduate Scheme was spent rotating through all areas of the business, completing internal and external work. This ultimately provided me with a varied overview of the ins and outs of all areas of the business.

Whilst working in the content team, I helped design and produce custom eLearning content using software such as Articulate and the Adobe Suite. During my time on the platform side of the company, I supported clients in the configuration, design, coding, and troubleshooting of their LMS (Learning Management Systems). I also experienced other areas of the business such as business admin, PMO (Project Management Office), and marketing.

Every day on the Graduate Scheme was different, meaning one day I would be designing and coding a page for a client for my UX/UI rotation, and the next I would be creating a project visibility tracking system for my PMO rotation.

I’ve also had the opportunity to work on internal projects that benefit both our team and clients. For example, I worked with a selection of the team to champion user experience by finding new ways to enhance our accessibility practices within our work across the company.

Being able to work on so many high-value and varied projects has enabled me to extensively expand my technical skills in areas such as coding. Moreover, leading conversations on client calls and taking leading roles in projects has enabled my communication and confidence skills to flourish since joining GuyKat.

What made you want to apply to GuyKat's Graduate Scheme?

I graduated from the University of Westminster in 2020 with a first-class honours degree in Digital Media and Communications. My course ignited my passion for technology and creativity and the ways in which these can be used simultaneously to make real-life impacts on society.  Due to this passion, I took up freelance design during my time at university. Alongside this, I was headhunted to work as a Marketing and Design Assistant for a property company in central London. 

With a natural inclination for creative roles, GuyKat's Graduate Scheme ticked all of the boxes for the start of my new long-term career. I spent my evenings researching the company and working on my application to the best of my ability. Living 150 miles away from the GuyKat office, I was prepared to relocate for the role if my interview was a success. I knew this was a valuable opportunity not to be missed. I was told I got the job on the same week as my birthday and was thrilled to be joining the team!

What were you doing before joining GuyKat?

Following my graduation, I took a year break to move out of my flat in London and back in with my family in Ipswich. During this time, I worked as a dog daycare assistant to give myself a break following all of my academic work. Though it was lovely to work with dogs all day, I realised how intensely I missed working within a creative and technology-based role. I spent most evenings after work learning more about the UX/UI industry and improving my skillset with the anticipation of finding the perfect entry to my long-term career. Having the luxury of time on my hands, I was adamant to be very particular in finding the perfect role to apply for.

What made GuyKat stand out to you?

GuyKat aligned perfectly with my passions and I found it to be the ideal opportunity to make real-world impacts on a large scale. Having the opportunity to learn and grow in my role in a supportive environment whilst also bringing my own insights and knowledge seemed like a rewarding opportunity to accelerate my career in a field I love. The mention of UX/UI initially caught my eye alongside the prospects of working at an (at that time) fairly small company with no strict hierarchy that could prevent me from learning from other company departments.

How did you find the interview process?

The interview process was great! It was the perfect balance between being relaxed yet professional. The questions asked provided room to expand on my prior experience, personality, and personal future goals. Living out of the area, my interviews were held online. Seeing the company cater to this issue really helped to indicate the welcoming nature of everyone at GuyKat.

What do you like the most about your job?

I love that even from day one I have been given the opportunity to guide my own growth. Being trusted to work on high-level projects with well-known clients helped me to build my confidence a significant amount. The variety of work available to partake in at GuyKat means I have been given so many opportunities to build an abundance of new skills and approach creative design from new angles.

What’s the most exciting project you’re working on right now?

Working as a member of the UX/UI team, I am currently running monthly quality assurance testing on a client’s sign-up form in numerous languages to ensure the interface is consistent and the user experience is of significantly high quality. It’s highly rewarding to know that your work can improve many diverse users’ journeys.

Did you have any concerns about joining GuyKat?

Relocating to a new part of the UK was already a daunting prospect. I worried that once there, I would be inexperienced compared to others at the company.

How were these concerns diminished? 

When I joined GuyKat, I realised how supportive each and every team member was. From day one I felt empowered to reach out for help and realised there was so much room for continuous growth and knowledge expansion.

How have you grown since being at GuyKat?

Before GuyKat, I was particularly anxious surrounding client calls. Over time, I slowly was able to ease myself into remedying this weakness. Team members encouraged me to shadow calls when I first started then over time I began to feel empowered and confident to speak independently.  

What makes GuyKat unique?

GuyKat is unique in its approach to equal learning and professional growth. At most companies, you are required to be within a particular department in order to gain experience or exposure to that role. Within GuyKat however, everyone supports each other as a team in enabling unreserved knowledge sharing company-wide. Being able to guide your own growth and being trusted to work on such a diverse range of projects is highly valuable.

What has your experience been with GuyKat company culture?

The culture at GuyKat has been unlike any I have seen before. No matter what issue, question, request, or even just general chat I feel in need of, I can always reach out to any of the team no matter their job role. The buddy scheme has also enabled me to speak to colleagues I don’t often work with. When you first join the company, the rest of the team are encouraged to book in a short ‘Hello Chat’ to get to know each other, making you feel included from the moment you join the team.

What kind of support do you receive from the team?

No matter what support you are seeking (including inside and outside of work), the team is always there to help out or point you in the right direction. I find it really valuable that if I ever have any knowledge gaps or would like any reassurance in the way I am approaching a task, I can always reach out to colleagues.

How did you find the onboarding process? 

One onboarding process that stood out to me was when I first joined the content team. A colleague had taken time to plan out my first few weeks in my new role. This involved setting me up with a project to create an eLearning module that we could review and discuss on scheduled calls. Other team members would also help answer any questions by setting up meetings to talk through their methodology, previous work, and set up mini-projects to practice what I had learned.

Any advice on those interested in pursuing a career at GuyKat?

Empower yourself to take a leap of faith outside of your comfort zone! The level of growth you can gain both professionally and as an individual if you make the most of the opportunities on offer is incredible. Whether you have a curiosity or a passionate interest in any particular area of the company, no doors to progression and knowledge are shut at GuyKat.


Jane's Office Manager Experience at GuyKat

Jane joined GuyKat in 2020 as Office Manager. Today she shares what her experience with GuyKat has been like so far.

What is your role at GuyKat and how long have you been working here?

My role at GuyKat is Office Manager and I have been working here for 2 years now.

What does being an Office Manager entail?

My role is very varied. As Office Manager, I look after the day-to-day running of the office, liaise with our landlords, and make sure we have enough supplies. I also take care of a lot of the accounts for both the UK and US offices. This involves invoicing, accruals, any intercompany recharges that take place monthly, maintaining the asset register, and processing bills. I also take care of the HR side of the business, which involves arranging interviews, liaising with candidates, and helping with onboarding. As well as that, I liaise with our clients’ accounts departments regularly when chasing late payments of invoices and I am the person responsible for completing vendor assessments when we take on a new client. I also deal with our company insurance renewals, and I am the Health & Safety Officer!

How did you begin your journey as Office Manager?

I was looking for a part-time role and I really liked the advert that was posted on Indeed for the Office Manager role. The fact that the advert spoke about finding the right person and then building the role around that person according to their talents attracted me. I was also looking for flexible working and GuyKat was open to that. However, at the time of the interview, I was unable to go into the office to meet our CEO, as I had broken my ankle and wrist. The interview was conducted over Zoom and the rest is history! Guy, the CEO of GuyKat, told me to take a leap of faith and I am so glad that I did!

What do you like the most about your job?

I like the variety of tasks that fall under my remit. I really like interacting with my fellow GuyKatters, which usually starts with me calling them to arrange an interview, right through to them starting at GuyKat and then watching them grow into their role and become part of the GuyKat family.

Did you have any concerns about joining GuyKat?

Not really, only the normal first-day nerves, but I was more excited about meeting Guy and the rest of the team in person.

How have you grown since being at GuyKat?

I have always been quite confident, but I think I have grown as a person since joining GuyKat. The support that we all give each other makes it such a positive place to work - something that is quite unique in my experience.

 What makes GuyKat unique?

I do believe that the people are what makes GuyKat unique. Our CEO, Guy, has a ‘2 pints and puppy’ philosophy when interviewing which means he chooses people that he believes would happily socialise and have fun with the team but also has to be trusted to look after our most precious pets, and so far he has got that spot on. I hope it can continue as we grow.

What has your experience been with GuyKat company culture?

The culture at GuyKat is a very nurturing and supportive one. We are all very different characters, carefully chosen by our CEO and yet we all gel together and help one another and support one another. I have never experienced anything like it. The backbone of Guykat is our culture and long may it continue to be so.

Any advice on those interested in pursuing a career at GuyKat?

Go for it! Really don’t hesitate to approach us. We are always looking for the right people to join our ever-expanding team. You won’t regret it!