Group Transformation Intern Review

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Lloyds Banking Group. The ten weeks, in my opinion, have gone extremely quickly due to the positive atmosphere around the office and helpful colleagues. The most enjoyable aspect of my placement that I'd like to share is that you're treated as a member of the team from the start, not just a human coffee maker.

From day one, when I was introduced to my team, I feel that, they have embraced me into their work. I've never felt embarrassed at having to ask them any questions, in fact they are more than happy to help with any queries I have. Moreover, the work I've done for them has been met well and they're always happy for an extra pair of hands.

My line manager has been exceptionally useful from the beginning of my placement. He picked me up on my first day from reception, helped me sort of my administrative tasks (such as getting a laptop and how to use the intranet) before giving me some freedom with how to approach the tasks. His support and guidance have been really helpful throughout the 10 weeks.

Although my day to day activities vary, there is no doubt in my mind that I had work to complete every day from 9am to 5pm. Many interns I know at other businesses have been shadowing, making coffee and doing remedial tasks however I have been working on a project that has required me to be present and work long hours, keeping me busy with something that is both enjoyable and impressive.

Throughout the placement I was assigned a project, which I am currently still working on, meaning I always have some work to be doing. Furthermore, I have updated various senior members of staff during the placement on it's progress. Their reactions indicate to me the importance of the work and how I am lucky to be responsible for such an important task.

From day one, when I came into the placement nervous and without much experience, I like to believe that I have developed an array of skills, from the basics of teamwork to the more complex such as Agile implementation (look it up!). Most of what you learn is no doubt transferrable to other businesses and the management skills you learn on your placement are no doubt useful for university life.

The atmosphere of the office was really laid back whilst simultaneously being diligent. Everyone comes in to work (in my office) wearing casual clothes, with jeans and trainers, and not a single suit in sight. On top of this, there is an air of collaboration and teamwork, with everyone communicating in person often.

My ten weeks have been rammed with work, and the organisation of it from my line manager has meant I've been on business trips to Leeds, Bristol and Cardiff! On the other hand, during the application process once I found out I was successful there was a lot of confusion regarding security checks, which took weeks to solve.

My manager has invested a lot of time in training me with specific things regarding to his work, whilst the company have obviously invested money into my development. There hasn't been a huge amount of formal training, but fortnightly emails go round with courses you can take mean there is lots of opportunities for learning.

I can to Lloyds Banking Group unsure of what career path I wanted to head down. Eight weeks later I am still unsure, however I am certain that if I proceeded to work in Lloyds Banking Group in the future I'd certainly enjoy it. It has been an eye opening experience, and come the end of my placement I hope that I can see more of the bank!

The social scene is very good if you live in the provided accommodation, however for those who don't it is rather limited. I was lucky enough to have an intern work close with me which meant I had more social opportunities than others, however if you are not in the accommodation you will have a harder time.

It is London and so the prices are all rather high, however with the accommodation provided and bills too, the main costs you face are travel and lunch. Going to pret a manger every day, or Tesco if you want to save, does build up and travel has cost me over five pounds per day!

I was based in Moorgate, and so there isn't a huge amount of nightlife, but if you head towards Old Street there are many more clubs and bars. Also as you are in central London everything is only a short tube ride away! On the other hand you work weekdays from 9am and so you can't be out too late.

The charity challenge means there are lots of projects and fundraising events you can do. I participated in a quiz night and lots of teams did sponsored walks and runs. Furthermore there is a huge intern community with lots fo sport and social activities on offer if you look and ask around.