New country, new challenge, new growth – that was my mindset when I started my Erasmus+ traineeship in Northern Ireland. After five unforgettable weeks in Belfast, I can confidently say: it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my professional journey so far. A experience for a life time! If you have the Chance to do a Training programme by Chartered Marketer Christine Watson – say yes as fast as you can!
With a background in insurance sales, I stepped into the creative and strategic world of marketing at Watson & Co. Chartered Marketing, under the guidance of my work placement host, Trainer: Christine Watson, a Chartered Marketer with incredible knowledge, experience – and kindness.
Christine told me when I started that a marketer and an insurance sales manager have more in common than I initially thought. Both value a strong network and the marketer can deliver things that assist the sales process and the best network is built by talking to people face-to-face or having a strong online presence.
Personalised Traineeship Journey
One of the most amazing aspects of this training placement was that I had the freedom to shape it based on my interests. From web design and visual content, to customer contact and Keyword analytics I was encouraged to explore different areas and develop new skills with hands-on experience.
Here’s a view of what I did and learned:
Keyword Research & SEO (Search Engine Optimisation)
I gained practical experience in analysing keywords for content strategy.
- Learned how Keyword supports visibility and how to apply it to real-world projects.
- Worked on Google Business Profiles and understood how local SEO helps small businesses.
- How to read the Data from the Keywords
- Utilised Apps, Websites and Programmes to find more about the Keywords – SEMrush (10 searches per day for free), SEOptimer, Google Adwords, Keyword Planner, Google Trends and more
Canva & Graphic Design
- I completed several certificates through Canva Design School online learning and certification platform.
- I found the Best Course of the many on offer was “Marketing with Canva” – I recommend this one but I completed 4 during my traineeship
- Created social media graphics, branded visuals, and presentations.
- Explored branding principles like colour palettes, fonts, and templates for consistent identity, using the Brand Kit feature from Canva available to Pro (paying) users of the platform.
- Learned how strong visuals increase engagement and communication impact.
- Got hands on experience with Bulk create – a great feature to speed up the process, using templates, available to Canva Pro users
Digital Tools & Content Creation
- Filmed short videos using DJI camera equipment.
- Designed engaging visuals and GIFs for the Watson and Co. Chartered Marketing approved giphy channel to enhance online campaigns.
- Gained insight into how websites work and blogging using WordPress.
- Took part in content planning and digital campaign execution, for example customer service week educational posts.
Social Media Marketing
- Scheduled and published posts across Facebook and Instagram using Meta Business Suite for the first time.
- Published posts on LinkedIn ‘Company’ page.
- Helped develop content calendars and reviewed post performance within ‘insights’ across multiple channels.
- Learned how to plan content and when the best day and time is that one should post to their page
- Learned to create platform-specific content and write effective captions.
Workshops & Events
- Attended local marketing events and workshops.
- Supported Trainer Christine Watson with the delivery of events and client work in Antrim and Carrickfergus
- Captured photo and video content at events.
- Took part in direct customer interactions and observed real-time marketing in action.
- Attended Workshops by Today at Apple, completing free Workshops about Open AI, How to take better Photos on Iphone and Draw with an Apple Pencil. I would absolutely recommend the Course Photos on Iphone!
Marketing Action Plans
What I learned:
- An Action Plan helps break down big business and marketing strategies and goals into clear, manageable steps.
- Without a concrete plan, teams can lose focus – but with a plan, everyone stays aligned toward the same goal.
- Good planning is more than just listing tasks – it includes clear responsibilities, deadlines, and measurable progress
- Marketers and businesses need to be prepared to change their plans to suit changes, opportunities and threats in the internal and external environment
I gained a good insight, behind the scenes, of a Marketing Agency, and got to be a part of it too. Seeing my visual marketing work published I felt happy and proud of the work and the choice to invest my time in an Erasmus marketing traineeship.
Beyond the Office – Events, Culture, and Conversation
During my time working and living in Belfast, I had the opportunity to visit Carrickfergus, where I attended a Macmillan charity coffee morning event for local businesses and learners. It was here that I met Heather, a very friendly and inspiring woman with whom I had a great conversation – she works as an Interior Designer. This moment perfectly reflects what made the traineeship so special: it wasn’t just about work – it was also about valuable connections, meaningful conversations, and learning from real people in real situations.
In Belfast, I took time outside the office to explore some of the city’s most well-known sights and travelled to other cities too:
- Crumlin Road Gaol: This former prison offers a deep insight into Northern Ireland’s complex history. Walking through the old cells and tunnels was both fascinating and sobering.
- St George’s Market: A lively place filled with local food, crafts, and live music. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming – perfect for a Saturday morning stroll. Must try – the Dumplings at the back of the hall.
- Botanic Gardens & Ulster Museum: A beautiful green space in the heart of the city, ideal for a break in nature. The museum offers a mix of history, art, and science – all under one roof.
- City Hall: An iconic landmark in central Belfast, often hosting exhibitions or public events. The architecture is stunning, especially at night.
- Peace Walls & Street Art: One of the most moving experiences. The murals and artwork around Belfast tells stories of the city’s past, present, and future – they’re not just art, but powerful messages. I absolute love it so keep your eyes open and look up.
- Spire of Hope – Belfast Cathedral: This Church is near the Belfast Central Library, where I worked in ‘Creative Space’ on the 6th floor, and a perfect spot to be in your lunchtime.
- Dublin: An absolutely amazing City not far from Belfast. If you want to travel there you have to know that the Buses at Dublin only accept cash (€) additionally you should book the Bus from Belfast to Dublin in advance because it is so much cheaper.
- Edinburgh: Edinburgh is a really beautiful city, which looks a bit like a Harry Potter Book. It is a must seen but more expensive than Belfast. You can easily fly from Belfast International Airport to Edinburgh. I absolutely recommend this trip everyone! But if you are scared to fly there is also the opportunity to take a boat.
- Giant’s Causeway: This is one Spot in Northern Ireland (NI) you have to see. It is the 8th World wonder and absolutely amazing to do as a Day trip. I booked by Allen’s tour just 20£ and we stop at 7 different sightseeing spots.
Street Art & Nature – Two Sides of Northern Ireland
Belfast’s street art left a lasting impression on me. It’s not just decoration – it’s expression, identity, history, and hope. Each mural has a story, and exploring them helped me better understand the city’s complex past and vibrant present.
Outside the city, the natural beauty of Northern Ireland is simply breath-taking. From the rolling green hills to the dramatic coastlines, every trip outside the city felt like stepping into a postcard. Whether it was the sea breeze in Newcastle, County Down, where the mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea, or the cliffs near the Giant’s Causeway – the landscapes inspired me in ways I didn’t expect.
If you are planning a visit to Newcastle, here’s a tip: sit on the left side of the bus for the most beautiful views on the way to Newcastle. And don’t miss Murlough Beach – just make sure to check the tide before you go, as the tide comes in.
Navigating Northern Ireland – My Map of Memories
During my time in Northern Ireland and before I arrived, I did a few days of research before I arrived, I used Google Maps to drop pins at all the places I wanted to visit, as well as all the places I visited, worked in and explored. From Belfast, Newcastle to Carrickfergus, from Banbridge to Antrim – my map slowly filled up with colourful markers of experiences, events, and learning moments. For my next visit to Northern Ireland I can refer back to my must see places using these pins.
Using this google maps feature is something I’d recommend to any future student: simply open Google Maps, tap “Save” on each location you visit, and watch your personal journey unfold on the map. It’s a great way to reflect on where you’ve been — and to share recommendations later.
Placement Support – Intern Europe
My internship was arranged and supported by InternEurope, a professional intermediary organisation based in Belfast. InternEurope specialises in organising structured internships for European students and graduates.
They supported me throughout the process by: Finding a suitable host company, Providing cultural orientation and local guidance, Assisting with accommodation and travel arrangements, Offering personal and professional development tools during the stay.
Host Company Watson & Co. Chartered Marketing, founded by Christine Watson, Chartered Marketer
During my traineeship, I had the privilege of working with Christine Watson, a highly experienced Chartered Marketer and founder of Watson & Co. Chartered Marketing (established October 2005) and the TrainingMatchmaker.com platform.
Christine is widely recognised for her strategic marketing knowledge and her involvement in professional training and business development across Northern Ireland.
Christine Watson – A Mentor Like No Other
I had the privilege of working closely with Christine Watson, founder of Watson & Co. Chartered Marketing. Christine is more than an expert in her field – she’s a kind, supportive mentor who truly invests in the development of others. Her strategic thinking, creativity and practical teaching made a huge difference in my learning experience.
Christine gave me the chance to decide what areas I wanted to focus on and supported me in gaining experience in web design, graphics, customer engagement, and more.
Her deep understanding of marketing and her open approach to mentoring helped make this Erasmus work placement in marketing not only educational but also empowering.
What I Take Away
This internship taught me more than I ever expected:
- That marketing is both strategic and creative.
- That practical experience is the key to real understanding.
- That content creation is more than design – it’s about telling stories, solving problems and adding value.
- That stepping into a new culture and environment leads to real personal growth.
- A lot of Tips and Tricks from a Chartered Marketer
- more English vocabulary and I now feel more fluent
- The design and marketing programmes which I think will be useful for my current job at home in Austria
Thank You, Belfast. Thank You, Christine.
To Christine Watson, thank you for your trust, mentorship, and everything you taught me. It has been a pleasure to learn from you.
To Belfast, thank you for welcoming me and showing me a new way of working and living.
This may be the end of my Erasmus+ journey but it’s just the beginning of a new professional chapter. I’m sure our paths will cross again.
