Aldi Industrial Placement Scheme Review

From day one the placement was a challenging experience with both ups and downs, however it has been one of the best experiences of my life so for. Each day is different and I really enjoyed the variety and challenges faced. I was surprised by the level of responsibility given however am great full for this as I feel this exposure has provided developed and knowledge beyond my expectations.

As long as you are willing to work hard from day one, employees both in store and head office are welcoming and more than willing to answer any questions and provide help and support. Opinions and ideas are encouraged throughout the placement reflecting the value Aldi places on all employees throughout the business. Following training, store time presets a lot of responsibility quickly and colleagues recognise this and respect decisions you make. You will soon become part of the team!

Feedback is clear and given on a daily basis. If there is room for improvement or you are doing well expect to be told. Honest feedback is a great aspect of the placement as you are always aware of how you are doing and how you could progress further. There was times I found feedback tough but it pushed me to work harder and develop quicker. Alongside continuos feedback you also have two reviews with the Operations Director and mentor Area Manager.

From day one you are given tasks and responsibilities so don't expect to be clock watching! The work load is more than manageable though intense, and although I understand this may not be for everyone I can guarantee it is rewarding. It is important to understand Aldi is a tough placement as you are not treated as an Industrial Placement but instead an Aldi employee able to contribute to the business on a daily basis. You will be given meaningful tasks at each stage of the placement and will not find yourself just sat observing.

One of the best things about this placement is the level of responsibility you are given. Within a few weeks of being in store you are given the skills and opportunity to run the store on your own. This may seem a daunting prospect right now but don't worry, come the time you will be eager to take on this responsibility and more than prepared. Ensure you embrace project work following store time as you will be given a brief and deadline, then have the opportunity to manage your own time and put your own stamp on a task which is meaningful to the business not simply set to fill time.

The placement has allowed me to apply aspects of my business degree and entering into my final year I have a better understanding and can relate to real life experiences instead of a text book example! I see the placement year as a stepping stone to progress onto the graduate scheme. By the end of the placement you will know exactly what would be expected of you if you wished to progress further with Aldi or if not you will have completed a hugely beneficial learning curve that will only be of benefit as you progress beyond university. Aldi installs a work ethic like no other, so be prepared to work hard and expect to be working 48+ hours a week. I am aware this isn't for everyone, and there are times it feels tough but if you want to look back an your placement year and be proud of what you have achieved, then apply!

Everyone at each level of the business was friendly and supportive. My store team were fantastic and treated me like one of the team from day one. I really enjoyed my time spent in the regional Head Office and feel each team were more than willing to welcome me and treat me as part of the team.

You will be given a training plan on your first day which details what yo will be doing and when. If you have any questions as you are unsure what a specific part of the placement will involve, people are more than willing to help,

From the extensive training plan to the regular feedback and reviews, Aldi invests a huge amount of time and effort in your development throughout the placement. As a result you will constantly be able to grow and develop new skills which will be hugely beneficial. Aldi provides all the support and guidance you could ask for, it is for you then to grab the opportunity with both hands and ensure you work hard to get the most out of your placement.

The placement can be seen as a stepping stone to progressing further with Aldi as a graduate as long as you achieve a 2:1 in your degree. The application process following graduation is shortened considerably and you will always have the added advantage of having experienced the role and knowing what Aldi are looking for in an employee!

You are invited to attend Christmas parties with both your store team and management team within the area you train. These events are not with other placement students however there is plenty of opportunity in the second half of the placement to get to know the other students as you all spend time together in Head Office.

Aldi aims to place you in a store close to where you are living. You are then only required to fund your travel to and from your regional Head Office.

You are not required to move away to a specific part of the country and tend to work where you live therefore this question isn't really relevant to the Aldi placement.

This isn't a social placement however there is plenty of opportunity to meet new people. A 48 hour week takes up most of your time and the rest of your time you tend to fill doing things away from work which you enjoy.