Julie Storr
Junior SEO Specialist
What led you to Smile Marketing?
I was working as a school librarian and completing my post-grad diploma in Information Studies, Library Science when I became interested in the digital side. The modules included creating websites, databases, and best online search practices, which I found fascinating.
I had already worked as a graphic designer with a newspaper, a content writer for advertising and marketing agencies, and as a freelance proofreader/editor. So it felt like a natural step to look for a role in the digital world where everything could be brought together. We live in a rural part of New Zealand so remote work with Smile Marketing is perfect!
What do you love most about your job?
I like that we are encouraged to use our curiosity to find solutions that work in our clients' best interests, rather than just to look for easy answers. There is always something new to learn and our roles grow with us. Being part of an area which is evolving constantly; I enjoy having an insider's knowledge of where technology may be heading next.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love dancing and I am part of a local Tango group. Along with my husband, I have weekly lessons and I'm getting more confident in dancing with a variety of partners without getting too tangled up!
I do yoga every morning before work, which is a new venture for me this year, and I'm a member of a meditation group. I find this helps make me feel more grounded and put things into perspective.
I also enjoy gardening in our wilderness. I have learnt to be patient with a two steps forward, one step back approach, gradually taming a bit at a time.
What might people be surprised to find out about you?
I was born in England but moved to New Zealand nearly twenty years ago. As my Dad was Canadian, I'm a citizen of three countries.
When I was very young I joined the army for a few years as a driver. I drove heavy vehicles all over the country, and then staff cars around London. Later, I was part of the Queen's baggage train moving her belongings (and the corgis' baskets) from one palace to another. It was quite an adventure.