This review was submitted over 4 years ago, so some of the information it contains may no longer be relevant.
Rating
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The Role
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The Company
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The Culture
- 1. To what extent did you enjoy your work placement or internship?
- 2. To what extent did you feel valued by your colleagues?
- 3. To what extent were you given support and guidance by management/your supervisor(s)?
- 4. How busy were you on a daily basis?
- 5. How much responsibility were you given during your placement?
- 6. To what extent did/will the skills you developed, and training you received, assist you in your degree studies and beyond?
- 7. What was the general atmosphere in your office?
- 8. How well organised was the overall work placement or internship set up?
- 9. In terms of personal training and development, to what extent did the company or firm invest in you?
- 10. What were the perks on your work placement?
- 11. How appealing are future employment prospects within the organisation?
- 12. Was there a good social scene amongst any fellow placement students/colleagues?
- 13. What was the cost of living and socialising in the area you worked in?
- 14. What was the Nightlife like in the area you worked?
- 15. Were there many opportunities to get involved in activities outside of work?
The Role
I loved my time at L'Oreal. In the past year I have learned more than I ever dd at university. The teams were friendly, dynamic and very sociable. The office has a youthful vibe whilst maintaining a serious corporate feel which for me felt like the right balance. I would recommend to everyone.
I was given a lot of responsibility from the outset and as I progressed in terms of skill level they continued to put faith in me and provided me with more serious projects. This overall improved the business as a whole which gave me a great sense of pride in the company.
My manager gave a me a respectable workload which was challenging but fun. Where I was stuck I was able to ask anyone for help as long as I had tried to figure out the issue myself. At L'Oreal you're allowed to make mistakes - as long as you don't make the same mistake twice.
It varied. At the start of the week Monday to Wednesday you could have a full to do list with many exciting meetings. Other days you may have a lot of spare time which allowed you to work on projects in order to further your development,.
A lot. My level of responsibility had increased in a linear fashion. Provided you're wiling go to learn and you ask for more, then your peers will give you greater insight into the business and they will invite you to important meetings and you may work alongside key stakeholders in a a major organisation.
As well as my finance knowledge. I was able to grow and mature as a young professional. I knew how to carry myself in the workplace and take responsibility in everything I do. I learned how to manage my time effectively whilst withstanding a buys schedule and I learned how to effectively prioritise my To Do List.
The Company
The atmosphere switches. One minute things are very serious when everyone has a heavy workload but the next the office is very casual, open and chatty. The office has a strong youth influence which is perfect for those coming out of Uni. Top managers speak to you just like any other person, making you feel welcomed.
Perfect. I was given an instructions manual upon arrival, I had weekly catch ups in order to ask any questions that I had a long the way. After a while these meetings stopped as I became self sufficient in my role. This company is very Intern friendly and they did not put a foot wrong.
You can apply for training sessions in topic areas outside of your job role which was free of charge. You could also shadow any member of staff if they had the free time which allowed you to get an insight into other areas of the business. Your manager will always update your objectives to keep you on your toes.
Subsidised/Company Gym
Company Parties/Events
Staff Sales/Staff Shop
Working from home
The company offers a Grad scheme that allows you to do 3 to 4 rotations across the business. Myself, I will be applying for talent track which allows me to keep in contact with L'Oreal and if successful they will keep me informed of any future job opportunities in the company.
The Culture
The social scene was a highlight at L'Oreal. The Christmas party was a lot of fun and my team tends to head out for socials every so often. You may also informally hangout for drinks with your work colleagues after a busy time in the office. This was definitely a key aspect to my enjoyment at L'Oreal.
Cost of living was tough. But that is no fault of L'Oreal. London is a very tough place to live as a student only earning 20 thousand a year. I found myself breaking even everything month as I wanted to socialise and see as much of London as possible. You will earn money but you will not save.
Nightlife in Hammer smith was good you could travel anywhere around London from Hammersmith to find the best nights out tailored for you. London is your oyster and is well connected so your perfect night life is only a 20 minute tube journey away from you. However, Hammersmith and Fulham is great.
There was opportunities to take part in charity events and days out but I feel there was room for improvement here. My division did not take part in this much as other divisions and I feel like we missed out on this area of our placement. However, what we did do, was indeed fun.
Details
Placement (10 Months+)
London
May 2019