HOLLY TAYLOR Founder of HT Media Services
Did you always envisage a career in the Media industry?
It’s funny because I remember years ago when I was a lot younger about four or five there was always a running joke in the family that I should become a journalist when I was older. My Grandma used to say I had the face for telly, and that I was always nosy – something we all laugh about now. I was never without a book in my hand and loved writing poems and stories, so I think my interest was sparked from then really. My love of English grew throughout secondary school and then when I studied English and Journalism at University, that just really re-affirmed that a career in the media was for me.
What has been your career path so far?
After leaving school, I went to York University to study English Language and Linguistics, and then from there, I went on to study for a master’s degree at Newcastle University in International Multimedia Journalism. Just before graduating, my lecturer told me he had put me forward for a BBC broadcast journalist trainee scheme based at BBC Breakfast in Salford. It would be working across BBC Breakfast and North West Tonight. The interview was gruelling, but I got the job and moved to Manchester. After a year in Salford, I moved back home and worked at Look North before leaving to pursue a career in social media – an industry I was keen to break into. Since leaving my role in social media four years ago, I have worked in PR for a local charity, and whilst there, I decided to start up HT Media Services which has gone from strength to strength.
What have been the biggest challenges you have faced so far?
Journalism is a really cut-throat industry and with so few jobs and so much competition, especially within the broadcast sector, I found that the biggest challenge was trying to climb the ladder while there were so many other people with more experience going for that same role.
What services do you provide?
At HT Media Services I offer a range of services all of which incorporate elements from each of my past roles. I offer all aspects of copywriting from blogs and press releases to rewriting website copy. Businesses can also outsource their social media to me if they don’t have the time or resources to manage it themselves. I can also help with content creation and offer 1-1 curation sessions.
What is your greatest strength?
I have always been a people person and I believe this has always been my greatest asset and strength, especially in the media industry.
What has been your proudest achievement?
To date, I would say my proudest moment was the first time I presented the news on BBC 1. I don’t think I have ever felt that nervous in my life, especially knowing it was live, but the reaction from colleagues, friends, and family was amazing. Other than that, I would say finally getting HT Media Services up and running has also been a proud moment after so much deliberation about whether to do it or not.
What are your future career aspirations?
I launched HT Media Services just three short months ago and can’t believe the positive response I have had and the number of new clients I am now working with. My next focus is to grow my business while continuing to do meaningful work that I enjoy. I am also looking forward to going back to University in March to study for another master’s degree in PR – it’s going to be a busy but exciting year!