EMEA Energy & Resources Business Analyst Review

I am a Business Analyst in the EMEA Energy and Resources and Industrial Manufacturing team, working for the leaders of both industries. This involves operational support, including preparation of financial analysis and reports, knowledge and material management and research. I work directly with EMEA Market Leaders on their strategic market and deal planning and supporting them on specific projects where they may need an extra hand. However, the main part of my job is participating inprojects within the energy industry, especially around clean energies and energy transition.

On one hand, I consider that I have been able to demonstrate all the hard skills that I have been acquiring throughout these years in my education, such as analysis, financial experience, or science background. Likewise, I have put into practice other soft skills such as teamwork or communication that I already had before but have greatly developed. On the other hand, this placement has been essential for developing other skills that I had very little experience in, such as organization, self-confidence when entering the work field, or precision.

What has positively caught my attention is how from the very beginning they give you a lot of responsibility and insist that you are the one who finds the people you need to talk to or the work you have to do, always supporting and making it clear that despite giving you this responsibility, there is always someone available to help you with anything. This responsibility is even present during interactions with clients, where it's not the first time that I have attended a meeting with clients alone, representing IBM. It demonstrates how the company trusts me to represent the work and the value it represents.

On one hand, there is IBM's training program, where we have a platform with all kinds of courses that allow us to acquire knowledge, both more technical and related to specific software or relevant to a particular industry. On the other hand, there is also training focused on the development of soft skills, such as work methodologies or communication skills with clients. Furthermore, the support from managers, mentors, and other professionals is always present. People are very approachable and open, and they insist on asking any questions or seeking help from anyone around you. They will always be willing to lend a hand.

One notable quality of the company culture is how, despite being a billion-dollar company with thousands of employees, everything feels very close-knit and familial. Support for diversity and inclusion is constant, and there are always various activities and events to encourage people to get to know each other and connect. Additionally, there is great care taken in promoting fair work practices and appropriate behavior in the workplace, which helps individuals feel safer and more comfortable within the company.

I have enjoyed my placement year immensely. I have been able to discover a new industry and find my passion within it, knowing now that it is what I want to dedicate the rest of my life to. I have also learned from within how a multinational company operates and how important corporate management is for all departments. Additionally, I have developed numerous skills, both hard and soft, that will be essential for my future professional and personal growth. Lastly, I have met many people with whom I will continue to have professional connections for many years to come.

Yes

The first thing is to approach it with enthusiasm and find the enjoyment in what IBM does. It is a huge company with numerous departments and industries, so it's just a matter of finding the right fit. Once you have done that, the recruiting team will notice your passion and interest, and they will value it positively. It is also important to demonstrate communication and teamwork skills, as well as a willingness to learn and connect with people, as these are essential elements in the company's culture.