Shopper Insights Review

I really enjoyed my placement year, I learnt a lot of business knowledge and was given some fantastic opportunities outside of my day-to-day work. One of the highlights included fundraising for the company's charity partner.

Working in a cross-functional team meant I was connected with a large group of people, I was welcomed into my role, and built some great relationships with colleagues.

I was provided with support from my supervisor through personal development meetings where we discussed my progress and any issues. I was also given a grad scheme 'buddy' who I could approach for any other issues, this was also helpful when discussing options for the graduate opportunities.

During the first three months I had a lighter work load- although I was taking in a lot of information still, and getting used to systems and structures. Through-out my placement I was given responsibility of my own projects, and given support where needed. There were a lot of structural changes in the business whilst I was on placement, so there was always something to do and I did not get bored.

I was given responsibility of a number of projects with our retail partners, I presented in front of some of our key clients and was able to get involved in projects which were outside of my immediate team.

I have developed a number of business skills, gained confidence and have had an insight into the challenges which are present in the real world- such as working to a budget, and short timelines. As well as gaining experience in my field, I have also been able to use systems which are used in a number of multinationals which will help me in my future career.

The atmosphere was generally good, although there was a lot of change whilst on placement, which influenced the moral for some of the duration, as with most change.

Very well organised, there were a number of placement students within the company, so there were lots of social opportunities, and industrial placement students were accepted as a valuable part of the company.

When on-boarding, there is a lot of training, which gives you an understanding of the regulations within the industry. I was given a development programme to work on, which allowed me to track my opportunities and work on my development areas. Industrial placement students were generally given the same opportunities as full time employees, including discounts at local venues.

There are a few options for future employment once you have completed your programme, including a fast track on the graduate applications. These options differ in level depending on your future objectives and ability.

There were 21 placement students in my area many of which lived locally, and a few, like myself who commuted from home. There were a number of opportunities the company provided for us to socialise outside of work, and also during work time, on the charity team. We were encouraged early on to socialise and this was facilitated.

I commuted from home, so my cost of living was not great. Socialising was more expensive, being near London, and you do not have the perks of being at a student university. However, there is a great social scene, which is worth budgeting for whilst you are living locally.

Brentford does not have a great social scene, however, it is easy to travel into London, and to the surrounding areas which have lots going on.

Yes. Whilst on placement you are expected to get involved in charity events, some of which were during work, some of which were outside. These included Tough Mudder, and a skydive. There were also social opportunities with the placement students and with other colleagues, such as meals out.