Emerging Talent Consultant Review

I had such an excellent placement. From day one I knew what my responsibilties and projects were, and was given the freedom to explore these in my own way. This developed my faith in my competence incredibly. There was a big focus on my learning and development - I had a personal development plan which my line manager provided me with, based on conversations we had about what I wanted to get out of the internship. I really enjoyed my time here.

I felt really valued by my colleagues. I was treated as part of the team, to the same level as permanent colleagues. The atmosphere in the office was really friendly and I felt like I could approach the members of my team with almost anything. I felt very comfortable. I also felt that the work I was producing was valued, as it was having an actual impact on the team.

The support and guidance I was given by my line manager was excellent. My line manager gave me the respect and trust to deliver my projects independently and in the way I thought was right. However, I knew that he was always there if I wanted his advice or to look over something for me. The support and guidance I was given didn't feel purely transactional, my line manager was genuinely committed to my development and getting something out of the internship.

I had a good balance of workload. I was busy day to day, but as my projects spanned the ten weeks, was able to be flexible with some of it. This allowed me to manage my time well, so that no day was too quiet or too busy. Because I was driving my own projects, it also meant that I didn't have to wait around for someone to help or sign off on anything, I could just go and do it.

Lots of reponsibility. I found this very liberating and it allowed me to thrive in LBG. I was given responsibility for all my projects and their delivery. The work I was producing also had real impacts on the team and the processes we use, this made me feel like my outputs were important, not just a time filling activity. I was treated as if any other memeber of the team, I never felt conscious that I was 'just an intern'.

Despite my degree not being in finance, I feel that many of the skills I have developed whilst at LBG will be useful to me in my studies and in my career. I have developed confidence in my own abilities, producing work that was meaningful. I have learnt project management, research skills, presentation skills, stakeholder management and problem solving. These will all be so useful to me in the future.

The office was a friendly and relaxed one. Senior colleagues were accessible and friendly. There was a fun atmosphere within the team where I sat particularly. Even when things were hectic, busy or a problem had occured, there was always a positive 'can do' atmosphere that we could get through it together. The office was set up with colourful break out areas which gave a nice feeling of being able to get away to relax for five minutes, or have a 121 with another colleague.

My placement in particular was very well set up. This is testament to my line manager and team. My line manager knew the process well and had a great attitude towards a mutual benefit for the business and for me. The work I was given was planned from the start and I knew what I was to achieve by the time I left. My line manager also scheduled in 121s to catch up on my progress and development sessions where we would assess my strengths and future.

LBG is very interested in the development of their interns. There are webinars and an online learning system. There is also lots of opportunity for shadowing, to learn about different business areas and roles within the bank. LBG commit to retaining talent if you prove yourself during your internship, by giving the option of a referral to the graduate scheme after a successful internship.

If I could work in the team I was placed in for my internship, I would seriously consider it. I think LBG is a great corporate to work for, they have great culture, progression and ethical profile. However, I think it is unlikely I will stay with the bank, only because I have very different career plans in the charity sector. I almost wish I had different aspirations so I could stay!

A lot of us were in the same accommodation, so it was easy to meet people and make friends. It was also easy to find people who were into the same things. As interns we socialised quite a lot. I socialised with my team a couple of times outside of work and it was really fun.

Some places were quite expensive, but we were living and working in central London so this was to be expected. If you were sensible and didn't go too crazy it was perfectly affordable to go out once in a while. Bring your own lunch, it really helps!

The nightlife was diverse, obviously in London there is something for everyone and so much choice. There is always something going on if you look for it. Everything is accessible on public transport.

There were a few events, and I was encouraged to look into these by my team. A lot of things were organised by interns too, such as a 'speed networking' event with senior leaders in the bank. There were also social events after work with all the interns invited, so we could all get to know each other. Being in London, I was in prime position to attend LBG-related events and events with a large number of other interns.