EMEA Talent Marketing Co-ordinator

Tiegan Owens

Marketing

Placement (10 Months+)

IBM

What made you decide to apply to that scheme?

I first heard about IBM’s placement scheme through my University. In the run up to applying for placements I attended various different careers talks and heard lots of first-hand experiences from pervious placement students. I heard nothing but good things about working for IBM which led me to furthering my research on the company. After reading about the projects IBM had been working on and the friendly working environment, it became my goal to gain a placement within the company.

What hints and tips would you pass on to a student about to start the IBM Recruitment Process (online application form/CV, online numerical test, video interview, assessment centre, matching interview)?

My first tip to any student about to start the recruitment process at IBM would be that you must be truly passionate about the role you are applying for and the company itself. The process can be challenging and quite long, if you stay motivated and know you want the job that will shine through. Also, it’s so important to just be yourself, everyone along the way is so friendly so there’s nothing to be scared about. I remember being very nervous for my assessment centre and interviews, but I was made to feel relaxed straight away and I was just myself which allowed me to perform better.

What’s the best thing about your job?

The best thing about my job is I get to connect with people all over the world. Despite not being in an office right now and still working from my desk at home. Every morning when I turn on my laptop I travel (virtually) to all over the world. One call maybe with employees in Europe, the next America. I’m networking with new people all day every day and gaining and insight into the different perspectives and opinions of employees across the world. Although it is virtual, I still feel so connected to everyone, and that’s down to the friendly workplace environment we have at IBM.

What’s the best thing about being at IBM?

The best thing about IBM is the learning and career development opportunities that they have. I am constantly learning new things within my role but also outside of my role. IBM have a platform called Your Learning which allows you to explore learning opportunities outside of your day-to-day job role. I have recently completed two learning courses furthering my knowledge on different areas of the business. Being a placement student, my main aim was to learn as much as I possible could on this year in industry and IBM is allowing me to do this whilst still in a working environment.