Meet The Team: Olivia Murphy

Welcome back to 'Meet The Team', where we take you behind the curtain to meet the extraordinary individuals who power the success of Skiddle.

Today, we're thrilled to introduce you to Olivia Murphy, our Social Media Manager, whose passion for creating and delivering next-level content knows no bounds.

How long have you worked at Skiddle?

"I've been at Skiddle for the last 10 months. I was taken on as a Content Executive before eventually being promoted to Social Media Manager."

Which brands/event names have you worked with during your time at Skiddle?

"I’ve created content for some of the UK’s biggest festivals and events; Creamfields, Parklife, Highest Point, WHP, Circus… too many to name! More recently I’ve had the chance to create content for our new 2023 Ibiza listings: Ushuaia, Hi & Eden."

What trends have you noticed in ticketing over the year so far? Any predictions for the year ahead?

"Due to the cost of living crisis, customers are, now more than ever, looking to secure a bargain. Discount codes and flash sales are becoming very popular among promoters as they go down a treat with customers, even if it’s only knocking a couple of quid off the total price."

How and when did you get into the industry?

"I’ve always been interested in creating exciting and fulfilling experiences for people - from working behind bars, in hotels and even as a children’s party host, I love the gratification that comes from making other people happy.

"Social media was something I fell into after opting for a more traditional marketing role - I needed something a little more fast-paced and challenging, and I much rather enjoy the creative freedom that comes from creating a community on social media.

"And, of course, I’m a prolific attendee of festivals, events and clubs (as is everyone who works at Skiddle!) so it really does make sense to combine my social media expertise with what I enjoy doing in my spare time, don’t you think?"

What genres of music do you prefer? Who are you currently listening to?

"I’m a DnB girly through and through, but there’s always space in my heart for trance and house too. My everyday playlist is mainly liquid DnB and jungle with a sprinkle of jump-up in there to get the blood pumping.

"My favourite artists at the moment would be Nia Archives, Vibe Chemistry & Goddard."

What was the last event you attended?

"Worried About Henry's In The City Festival, where I got to sit down and chat with UK MC legend, Window Kid. This year, I’ve also worked at Highest Point Festival and at our London pop-up event where I got to meet loads of amazing artists and managed to find time for a little boogie."

What do you like most about working with Skiddle?

"The opportunities and connections made at Skiddle are definitely a huge selling point! Getting to work with (and even meet) artists I love is something very few industries can offer.

"The creative freedom you get with Skiddle is also one of the best things about the company. Because we’re an informal brand in an informal industry, no idea is off the table when it comes to social content, events or campaigns. Forget the endless sign-offs from higher-ups - at Skiddle, you’re given autonomy and are trusted to deliver what you believe is the best move for the brand."

What advice would you give to anyone looking to get into the industry?

"My mantra is “shy bairns get nowt” or if you’re not from the North East, “shy kids get no sweets”. You don’t need to be a loud, extroverted people-person to succeed in the industry, but you do need the confidence to show up and speak up when it comes to your expertise and passion. The industry is so fast-paced and no one will hold your hand through it all, so you need to be able to use initiative and put yourself in front of the right people at the right time."

What's one thing about your role/the industry you've learned that people might not know?

"Some people still consider social an “easy” job - which it is… if you’re not fussed about doing it well. In reality, there are hours of research, keeping up with news/trends, campaign planning, content creation, community management and all of the other hiccups that happen every day you need to account for."

What's been the proudest achievement of your career thus far?

"I always do a little happy dance around my flat whenever an artist I admire shares a social post I created. I’ve had shares from Ben Hemsley, Ewan McVicar, Schak, Nia Archives, Darkzy, Window Kid, Turno and loads more. It’s like a nice pat on the back telling me I’ve done a good job."

List three tips or pieces of advice for promoters; How to effectively advertise an event, listing advice etc

"Number 1 - Stop spamming your audience with event flyers! Of course, it’s handy to post them out a couple of times so your audience is aware, but there’s a high chance they’ve already seen them and your account is becoming a nuisance to them. Be more creative when showcasing your artists - create new video content with them, post previous sets they’ve done etc. You want to create an experience for your audience and give them a taste of what’s to come at your event.

"Number 2 - Engage with your community! Social media is SOCIAL - to put yourself in front of your audience, you need to give something back to them. Not only should you be replying to comments on your own posts, but you should be engaging with others’ posts too. Not only will the algorithm favour you as an active user, putting your posts in front of more people, but accounts who may not have heard of you will see your comment and may decide to click on your account to see what you’re about. It’s best to stay within your own community though, as I don’t think too many of Kylie Jenner’s fans would be interested in a techno night in Glasgow.

"Number 3 - Jump on trends! I’m not talking about those silly TikTok dances or eating challenges… Start off simple with trending sounds! These sounds are crucial in pushing your content out to more people when using Tiktok and Instagram reels, and they’re super easy to find and use, just identify one that fits well with your content and add it to your video in the app before you hit the upload button."