Charlotte Tomlinson

BA History, MA Modern History, and PhD History, University of Leeds

My current role: Development and Outreach Officer, Heritage Network
In my role as Development and Outreach Officer for the Heritage Network, I support grassroots heritage projects across England. The Heritage Network are the UK's umbrella body for those who are rescuing, restoring and managing historic spaces - from 20th century swimming pools to medieval churches to Victorian parks. My role is to support our 650+ members across England, by giving 1:1 guidance, running workshops, and overseeing an annual programme of events. I also do a bit of advocacy work and feed into national heritage policy through speaking, writing, and contributing to forums like the HEF.

What specific barriers did you face as the first person in your family to go to University?
As the first person in my family to go to university, I had a lot to navigate and figure out when I first came to Leeds. I didn't have anyone in my close networks to ask questions of or to follow as a role model, I had to just throw myself in. Getting stuck into different modules, voluntary opportunities, and attending events put on by the university was key - it helped me to get experience in the History and Heritage sectors early on and get to know people.

What were the most critical steps you took to enter the creative industry after graduation?
Getting to know people is key - go to events (not just at the university, but in the local area), network with people, and show your interest and enthusiasm to those you meet. Lots of the amazing things I've done in my career so far have been thanks to relationships that started small, often years ago. You never know where they might take you.

Can you describe a portfolio piece or project that significantly helped you land your current job? 
When I was an MA student at Leeds, I was lucky to have access to a pot of funding from the Leeds for Life programme*. I used £500 to create a heritage trail based on my own original research. The connections I made through that project built into bigger relationships over time, leading to a post-PhD research role, and then a role in heritage regeneration.

What networking methods did you find most effective when building connections in your industry?
Networking is a huge part of my current role - it's my job to connect with people, build relationships and develop new partnerships. I've always believed in putting myself in the right places - be there and be open and the right opportunities will come along. If you're interested in a talk, go along and ask questions or introduce yourself to someone you're sat close to. If there's a creative industry you'd like to know more about, reach out to someone you admire and ask if you can go for a coffee. Do a bit of research beforehand, ask questions, and listen to what people share.

Based on your experience, what specific actions should students take to prepare for and succeed in the heritage sector?

Take the initiative and go beyond the university to explore the fields you might like to enter after graduating. You never know exactly what role you'll end up in, so have an open mind and soak up as much knowledge and learning as you can. Attend an event, sign up to a newsletter, or reach out to someone to chat over a cup of tea.

*[Sadly this doesn't exist anymore, however, you could look at the excellent Student Ideas Fund]