SMB Business Development and Support Review

I can honestly say that my time at HPE has been an extremely enjoyable experience which has help me learn and develop as individual. The working culture instilled throughout the organisation generates a feeling of comfort, which I found hugely warming in a experience which could be deemed by some as daunting. The one thing which above all makes HPE such an enjoyable place to work is the people within it who are always willing to help, offer help or guidance, and are true representation of the work hard play hard attitude,

At HPE it is very clear that hard work is recognised and that if you are willing to put the hours in and become an integral part of the HPE Team and more specially the Team which you have been aligned to, then a feeling of worth comes hand in hand.

It is refreshing to see at such a high profile company the willingness to help employees progress is second to none. : During my time at HPE I scheduled frequent 1-1 mentoring and review sessions with multi colleagues including senior mangers which I found beneficial to help my as a individual to progress to the next working level.

Time Management is a skill of mine which has come on leaps and bound since joining HPE. The role in which you are responsible for is sure to keep you busy on a day to day basis but it also incorporates a degree of flexibility, this allows you to get involved in additional work projects in less frantic working periods. The world of IT is constantly moving and adapting so it is important that when in a role like this you have a similar level of mobility.

It is sometimes assumed that placement employees are often given roles which require less responsibility due to their limited time in a company and I am extremely please to say at HPE this was the complete opposite. My daily responsibilities where fundamental to my teams achievements throughout the year and the additional projects I was selected to own gave me a high degree of self-worth and confidence that I was adding value to HPE .

I believe that the skills/ training which I have received during my placement will be extremely impact on my future with my current degree program and beyond. I feel my all round skill set whether it be fundamental, commercial awareness, or transferable have all improved significantly and will help me to succeed in many if not all situations I face in the future.

The atmosphere in the office provides the right balance of motivation and comfort. The friendly nature of all employees at HPE makes coming to work an enjoyable experience and the generic feel of the office allows you to work to the highest potential. The office has a variety of different areas including meeting rooms , hot desks, quiet rooms, and coffee areas to ensure you can find the right atmosphere for each hour of your day.

The overall work placement is extremely well organised and set up - as previously mentioned your responsibility is fundamental and therefore I have never receive a feeling on misalignment or an extra part. HPE offers a great opportunity to gain as much experience as you want and therefore the placement does incorporate a degree of flexibility to be self-driven and get involved in things which you feel will benefit the company but also you as an individual.

HPE invest a lot time to ensure it's placement employees are well equipped with the relevant training and development - whether this be on a corporate level which incorporates all interns in one or on a more independently level for smaller more targeted or even 1-1 training. It is also a strength that there is specific personnel to help and assist the intern cohort who are always available if required.

HPE Placement program really works as a 13 Month Interview will the organisation very clearly stating its priority to keep hold of top talent. The prospect of future employments works extremely well not only with the well established graduate scheme but also alternative opportunities which could arise base off the connections you generate during you time with at the company. Another benefit of working with HPE is the interactions you have with other external organisations which partner HPE, which also offer an alternative avenue for future employment options.

The social scene between HPE interns is something which adds significant value to the job, with socials a weekly occurrence, they are to be used for you to enjoy as much or as little as you preference desires. The teams which you work in will also have their own social calendars and is something which really contribute to the feeling of being part of a team.

I was fortunate enough to live at home during my internship and therefore my knowledge of living costs is some what limited. However, due to the connections to Reading University I would suggest that the cost are of a reasonable standard. Socialising in the area can vary in price much like all destinations, having lived in the area most of my life the cost seem satisfactory from an individual standpoint.

Reading is often used as the centeralised for Nightlife, given is accommodating nature to students due to the local university - It is fair to say that the Nightlife is high standard to have a good time on nights out whilst on placement.

Activity opportunities outside of work are almost continuous a few example this year activity calendar included Palace to Palace, Reading Half Marathon, and Three Peaks Challenge. The activities which HPE offer span across a wide variety to ensure there is something for everything.