Sara's sharing what it's like to be a content marketing strategist in Brafton's Chicago office.

If you ask Sara Berke what her title is at Brafton, she’ll tell you she’s a “content marketing strategist extraordinaire”. Okay…she admits she added that last part, but based on feedback from her clients, her strategic prowess and relationships she’s built through the office, we think it’s safe to say she qualifies.

One thing we love about Sara is the firm stance she takes on her career goals (“Success isn’t so much a destination, but rather an ongoing journey,” she says), plus where she wants to move forward with Brafton.

“Brafton encourages and expects that we challenge what we’re currently doing, and bring up ideas on how to make it better,” she said. “I’m not forced to follow a cement list of to-dos, I am encouraged to think freely. In turn, this allows me to grow not only as an employee, but as an individual.”

So what is it like to be a strategist in our Windy City office?

“We’re the type of company that allows you to learn on your own terms,” she said.

She’s the first to admit it’s hard work, but with that hard work comes the support of a like-minded team.

“They’re not only my coworkers, they’re my friends. We’re definitely a tight knit group with areas of expertise all across the SEO and broader marketing strategies board. It’s such a supportive environment where learning and growth are encouraged not only by management, but by my peers.”

Learn more about Sara in our Brafton Q&A:

Q: As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I always wanted to be a famous singer. Then I realized that I couldn’t carry a note if it had a handle. So there’s that.

Q: What do you think is the most important quality needed for success?

I think it depends on your definition of success. It can mean different things to different people. To me, success is getting to the next level, and then raising the bar even higher. You need to have an insatiable appetite.

Q: What do you value most in a job?

The people. If you had to go to work and spend 9 hours per day with people you don’t get along with, you probably won’t want to get out of bed in the morning. Good co-workers can challenge you, encourage you, and also just be there to make you laugh. Happy coworker, happy life.

Q: What is your most treasured possession?

My dog immediately came to mind, but then I kind of feel weird referring to him as an object. He’s more like a family member than anything. Second to him, I treasure my bed. It’s the most comfortable place in the world and it’s where my dreams come alive. I also really, really love to sleep.

"Good co-workers can challenge you, encourage you, and also just be there to make you laugh."

“Good co-workers can challenge you, encourage you, and also just be there to make you laugh.”

Q: Which day of the work week are you the most productive?

My workload is not determined by the day of the week, so there isn’t a consistency there. I’m most productive when I have a long list of to-dos.

Q: What’s your favorite aspect of your job?

I have a passion for digital marketing, so that’s a given. What I wasn’t really expecting that I would enjoy so much is the fact that I get to work with so many different industries and marketing professionals. I collaborate with marketing departments anywhere from banks to software companies to horse product manufacturers to travel insurance and more. I have the opportunity to learn and grow in more ways than just SEO, I’m learning about business, culture, and people. (This is where the sociologist in me does cartwheels.)

Q: What do you consider your greatest achievement?

I like to think the best is yet to come, but I would have to say that two of my proudest achievements have been earning my black belt in Taekwondo and graduating college with two bachelor degrees. It’s important to me that I be strong physically and mentally.

Q: Have any “hidden talents”?

I’ve got some Martha Stewart-like craft skills.

Q: If Brafton were a TV show, which character – from any sitcom, drama or reality show (of any time period) – would represent you?

I have a lot in common with Dorothy Zbornak from The Golden Girls. She’s an intelligent, strong-willed, and opinionated woman who has a very deep love for her friends and family. I don’t think I look as manly as she does, though. So that’s good.

 

Have you heard? We’re hiring content marketing strategists in our Boston, Chicago and San Francisco offices! Check out our career opportunities here.

Molly Buccini is Brafton's community manager. She joined the team with a background in digital journalism and social media. She's a theatre nerd, pop culture junkie and lover of summertime.