Interning can be scary… unless you’re at Keep It Real Social. It’s a job where I not only learn about marketing, but also get to use the creative skills I already bring to the table. Uh, score! What I love about marketing is how many passions fit under one umbrella: photography, videography, editing, graphics, promoting, analytics, you name it. But let’s be real, there’s a learning curve.
So, from one intern to another, here’s what I’ve learned in my first month at a marketing agency. It’s been equal parts exciting and eye-opening. And trust me, there’s no better place to grow than with a team that “keeps it real”.
Models or CoWorkers?
Your coworkers = your photo models. Yep, you read that right. We’ve all taken turns as hand models for fudge, jewelry models for local shops, and… septic models.
Yeah, I know, I used “model” and “septic” in the same sentence. Yikes.
Welcome to the behind-the-scenes life of small business marketing. You quickly learn to wear many hats, and sometimes, hold many props. One minute, you’re adjusting lighting, and the next, you’re posing with a waffle cone like it’s a high-fashion shoot. It’s chaotic, creative, and kind of the best. Because when everyone’s willing to jump in and have fun, that’s when the real magic (and best content) happens.
Connections Galore
Connections are key. Every time I go somewhere with my boss, I end up in a conversation with a client, and we have mutual connections every time. Small world, right?
But really, all it takes is starting a conversation. Put yourself out there. Promote yourself.
How else are you going to grow in any industry? People need to know your name to recommend you. So speak up, show up, and make those connections count. You never know who’s watching, listening, or remembering you for a future opportunity. The way you carry yourself matters more than you think. A confident hello can turn into a job, a client, or even a long-term partnership. Be curious, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to share what you’re passionate about. Your network is one of your greatest assets; build it with intention.
My Biggest Downfall: Lists
When I tell you one of the hardest parts of transitioning into this job has been lists… I mean it. Out of all the things, lists are what trip me up. Wild, right?
My coworker suggested, “Hey, you should make a to-do list for the day.” And what did I do? I thought I knew better and skipped the list. Let’s just say… I only made that mistake once. My ADHD had me bouncing from task to task, getting nothing done—all because I didn’t write it down. Turns out, a simple list is the anchor I didn’t know I needed. Lesson learned: Write it down. Cross it off. Stay sane.
In with the New, Out with the Old
Social media is the way to go. Don’t get me wrong, traditional marketing, like putting up boards in stores to promote a product or business, is classic and classy. But it’s 2025. The internet is where your business is going to grow, and that’s the flat-out truth. You can’t just click a button and share a promotion in a newspaper. So why not turn that newspaper ad into an Instagram post and get eyes on it instantly?
The best part? Social media is free. Just another bonus when it comes to marketing yourself. Why not make a buck while saving a buck?
We scroll for hours a day anyway; your brand might as well be part of that scroll. You don’t need fancy equipment or a big budget, just consistency and a little creativity. Whether you’re a small business or just getting started, social media levels the playing field. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about showing up.
So yeah, interning at a marketing agency isn’t just about learning the ropes, it’s about jumping in, figuring things out, and growing along the way. From becoming an accidental hand model to finally mastering the art of the to-do list, I’ve learned that real-world marketing is equal parts hustle, heart, and humor. And at Keep It Real Social, I’ve had the space (and support) to try, mess up, learn, and try again.
If you’re thinking about diving into the marketing world, here’s your sign: say yes, show up, and keep it real. You might just surprise yourself. Growth doesn’t happen overnight, but it does happen when you’re surrounded by people who believe in you. Even the smallest tasks can teach the biggest lessons. Every photoshoot, meeting, and caption I’ve written has helped shape the creative I’m becoming. I’m excited for what’s next, but grateful this is where it started.
Maggie Grant is a marketing intern at Keep it Real Social, where she brings a fresh Gen Z perspective to digital marketing. She’s currently pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Marketing with a minor in Sports Media and plays college softball. Maggie has over two years of experience behind the camera, capturing photo and video content that tells a story. When she’s not studying, playing ball, or creating content, she enjoys fishing, reading, and indulging in her favorite treat—ice cream.
