Associate Consultant Review

I very much enjoyed my placement year at Hays, It was a great opportunity to gain work experience in an internationally recognised firm. The work itself was varied and challenging and I was given the responsibility of running my own desk, whereby I would speak with clients and candidates on a daily basis.

I felt very valued by my colleagues within my team and the wider department. My placement year allowed me to work closely with my colleagues who were of varying levels of experience. I felt included in the team and was not treated differently as an intern.

I was supported throughout my placement by my manager and line manager. I would sit down monthly with my manager to discuss my progress and had reviews throughout my placement year, for reflection and development. On a day to day basis, I had direct contact with my manager and felt I could communicate any issues, should they arise.

I was very busy on a daily basis, there was no shortage of things to do. I operated my own desk and would assist my colleagues with there recruitment needs. Day to day, my role could include; conducting telephone and face to face interviews with new candidates, writing and posting web advertisements online and researching new recruitment trends.

I ran my own desk and was responsible for getting jobs on, sending candidates for interviews and liaising directly with clients.

I have gained confidence and people management skills through my placement year, Consistently working for a year, has helped with my time management skills, my knowledge of the recruitment industry and how to interview to my best ability. These are all skills which I hope with help me in my degree and when looking for a job upon graduation.

The atmosphere of the office was great. It is a face - paced environment with everyone working hard to make money.

The work placement was very well organised. Upon joining the firm, I undertook the Hays 12 week intern training programme, which is designed to equip interns with the knowledge and skills required to run their own desk and be successful in their placement year.

I felt the company invested in me a lot, they provided training and development . As well as opportunities for progression within my placement year.

The firm look to employ their interns and it is something I would consider upon graduation.

Yes, this included weekly drinks after work and annual Summer and Christmas parties.

Central London is expensive, but a great place to work and socialise.

The night-life was good and clubs/bars were in close proximity.

Yes, the firm has sports teams and individual teams host regular events.