Kathryn joined GuyKat in 2020 as an Intern, before becoming one of GuyKat’s eLearning Designers three months later. Today she shares how she is finding working at GuyKat.
What does your job as eLearning Designer entail?
As part of the eLearning team, I help with the storyboarding, design, and development of eLearning modules. It’s a really great mix of logic and creativity, which I love. I’ve also had the opportunity to project manage and help out with internal processes such as onboarding, recruitment, and marketing.
How did you begin your journey as an eLearning Designer?
I started as an Intern, initially on a 3-month temporary contract. I had no experience in the eLearning industry, so it was a nice way to get a foot-in-the-door and to prove what I could do.
What were you doing before joining GuyKat?
Before joining GuyKat, I worked in recruitment for nearly four years. Although I gained a lot from the experience and I’m really glad I did it, I’ve always wanted to do something creative that would allow me to explore my passion for design and writing.
What made you decide to apply to GuyKat and change the direction of your career?
GuyKat’s culture really stood out to me. It was clear that autonomy and progression were a priority, and in the past, I’ve enjoyed having the freedom to shape my own role and career. Equally, I was excited about the prospect of designing for big brands I admire.
What was the interview process like?
It was the best interview I’ve ever had. It was a back-and-forth conversation, rather than the grilling which I’d experienced in other companies. I felt I was listened to and treated as an individual, which gave me confidence that GuyKat would mould the role around me rather than the other way round.
What do you like the most about your job?
As an eLearning designer, I enjoy the variation the most. Every project is different, which keeps things exciting because I am always learning something new. eLearning modules come in all shapes and sizes and because it’s a fairly new industry you have the opportunity to introduce new ways of working.
What’s the most exciting project you’re working on right now?
I’m currently working on a module for one of our biggest clients and it’s all about change. It’s a very interactive course and teaches the learner how to drive and respond to change in a business setting. The organisation has beautiful branding, so I’m having a lot of fun with it!
Did you have any concerns before joining GuyKat?
The only concern I had before joining GuyKat was my lack of experience in the area.
How were these concerns diminished?
Although I hadn’t worked in eLearning before, the leadership team has a knack for choosing people who they know will pick it up quickly and who are keen to learn. So if you’re eager, and you put the work in, the team will support you and you can develop very quickly.
How have you grown since joining GuyKat?
It’s crazy to look back on the last year and a half because having joined GuyKat with no direct experience, I’m now a fully-fledged eLearning Designer and I feel like a valued part of the team! Having never touched Storyline 360 or any of the Adobe software, I can now use the majority of them with confidence. I still have a lot to learn, but that keeps things interesting.
What makes GuyKat unique?
The culture makes GuyKat unique. It’s very rare to find an environment with so much freedom and with a team who are all passionate about what they do.
What has your experience been with GuyKat company culture?
We have a hugely sociable atmosphere and everybody wants to get involved. I’ve never felt so comfortable or welcomed into a company. People genuinely want to help and support each other.
What kind of support do you receive from the team?
The team is always on hand to offer training and to share their expertise. On-the-job learning is our main approach, but no question ever goes unanswered and there’s always someone willing to hop onto a call, which was especially helpful during lockdown!
Any advice on those interested in pursuing a career at GuyKat?
If you’re interested in pursuing a career at GuyKat, remember it’s all about attitude and work ethic. Although I didn’t have direct experience, I showcased what I could do in my application. It’s important to tailor your cover letter and show how much you care. The freedom you’re given isn’t for everyone, so if you’re looking for a structured, linear career path, we’re not the company for you. Being proactive, self-motivated, and taking ownership is key in my opinion, even if you have eLearning experience behind you. Also, because we’re very sociable at GuyKat, we value people who want to join in and get to know the team!
