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 did enjoy it however the six weeks ended up being quite different to how I had imagined. At times there was a lot of waiting around as in retail things change quickly and this sometimes means plans are left in the lurch.
I got on well with my colleagues and across the store I felt that Partners were welcoming and friendly. Most people were happy to ask questions and let me shadow them.
Both my line Manager and over all Manager were very supportive however due to the nature of the job at times I was unable to have weekly meetings with my manager. This meant not all aspects on my checklist were covered.
There was definitely a schedule which kept you occupied but I by no means felt like I had far too much to do.
To an extent I was given responsibility but certain aspects of the position mean that only a Manager can deal with certain situations due to sensitivity around customer complaints/staffing issues etc.
In particular presentation skills and working with a diverse range of people.
The Company
It was very busy on the shop floor and everyone I worked with was enthusiastic and friendly. This really helped.
The placement was well organised using a day to day schedule which detailed meetings, however these got changed on a regular basis.
I was given attention by lots of Managers including a one to one meeting with the Managing Director. I also had a Personnel Mentor who recommended various computer training programmes for me. Once downfall was that at the end of the internship, if they are pleased with your performance you get a recommendation, where as I know that some firms offer a job.
Subsidised Canteen
I have been fast-tracked to the final day of assessment centres for the graduate programme. Much as I enjoyed my placement I am not sure this is something I would pursue given the hours involved in retail.
The Culture
Whilst I was there there was only one other intern but we were given opportunities to meet and discuss the internship which really helped.
I travelled from elsewhere...
Not something I particularly sampled due to commuting.
There were some opportunities and socials organised.
Details
Internship (1 Month+)
Business Management, Retail
Scotland
October 2012