Time to Bloom

Bloom is a network for women in the communications and media industry. The program works by partnering junior women that have been in the industry for at least one year, with someone more senior and experienced.

I joined the program in 2021 and was partnered with a Programmatic Account Manager at another media agency. We worked together for a year, setting goals for my personal development and checking in every few months about them. Most of my goals were themed around soft skills like time management, work-life balance and communication.

Throughout the year I was also involved in skills share sessions which raised money for their partner charity BelEve.  These sessions were also soft skilled focused such as confidence building, presentation and leadership. There was also virtual networking activities throughout the year that allowed me to get to know others in the industry.

Beyond the year with Bloom I chose to join Bloom Boost. Bloom Boost is a dedicated community to support women in the industry who have been through the initial Bloom program and have less than seven years’ experience in the industry.

It offers workshops, coaching, networking opportunities and mentoring. I was assigned a Bloom Boost mentor who was a specialist in my field; Head of Commerce Strategy at Cain & Abel. The Boost program has included several workshops though out the year which are more in-depth than the skill share sessions, they focused on specific topics like having difficult conversions.

There were also 1-2-1 coaching sessions which allowed me to have time with an expert to really dive into my personal development. The mentoring program has enabled me to grow as an individual personally and professionally. It has been incredibly invaluable over the last year.

My favourite thing about the Bloom network is there are endless opportunities to meet new people from all over the industry. It also is a flexible program that works with your timeline so can be flexed around your work schedule. The program is individualised to your own personal development so you decide what you want to work on, when and how.

I have worked in the industry now for four and a half years now so I have not reached the seven year requirement for becoming a mentor. But, I am keen to stay involved with Bloom Boost where possible and to continue my relationship with my mentor beyond Bloom.

For more information on Bloom and to find out about member application visit Bloom Network.