Placement Student Review

As a placement student I gained insight into various different aspects of the business on a rotational structure, experiencing Sales, Logistics, Supply Chain, Head Office as well as several more independent projects. This involved supporting in the management of a warehouse team, learning the ins-and-outs of running a shift in store, ensuring that the correct amount of stock is allocated to individual stores and all the ad-hoc activities in-between.

Primarily, my people management skills have developed over time due to gaining more experience in managing a team and being given the responsibility to do so. My analytical skills have also been built upon, having to analyse sales data and current warehouse stock to figure out how much was to be ordered in peak periods being just one example. Furthermore, through various project presentations and the support available, my confidence in my public speaking has grown.

I was given primary support roles in the warehouse, with myself and a graduate being responsible for the logistics of the Non-Food department, ensuring that the products were picked in correct volumes and shipped to the relevant stores in time for their advertising date. Furthermore, I was given complete autonomy over some audit style visits to stores, being trusted to make my own schedule and give feedback to the management present.

In each department there was always a supporting team ready to answer any questions that I may have or demonstrate something again that I was unsure about. While this was the case, most of my development has come through doing the activities myself through physical learning and this was encouraged, with support always willing to help if needed. Throughout my year in every rotation, there has always been someone to talk to if I ever found myself stuck or looking for advice.

Productivity and development have been two of the most prominent values during my time at Lidl, with the option to progress and learn always being available. There is never a dull moment with the work being busy and challenging, but there is also a real sense of being part of a team, with everyone looking out to help each other in pursuit of a common goal.

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement as it has given me exposure to all departments, with the variety from day-to-day keeping things fresh and engaging. Being given levels of responsibility also gave me targets to work for and a sense of pride that may not otherwise have been so strong, meaning I felt like I was contributing and had a purpose at all times.

Yes

Be prepared to work hard and never be too proud to ask for help and you'll be rewarded with personal growth and insight into the retail business that you won't get anywhere else. With lots of information being taken on from various different departments at different times, its important to be adaptable and to fully immerse yourself to get the most out of the experience.