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 really enjoyed my internship as a result of a constant stream of work (days went by so quickly because I was kept so busy) and what is very interesting work. Regular HR events that widened my perspective on HSBC broke up the time spent at the desk and gave me a chance to interact with my intern colleagues. Furthermore, the work I was doing was very relevant and I had the opportunity of seeing the results of my hard work which always helps to provide some satisfaction!
My team and those sitting near me were very helpful and friendly during my stay. They always offered their time to aid my understanding and progress.
Similar to the question above, all colleagues offered their time in abundance - irrespective if they were senior or junior. I had regular meetings with my line manager and even those who weren't directly involved in my performance which gave me the impression that all were keen for me to succeed.
Always given lots to do, but generally got away at an okay time for an intern in an investment bank. Days went by very quickly because there was lots to do. As a result I was given exposure to many of the regular tasks that the business undertakes.
Gradual progression from very little to quite a lot. Tough to gain lots of responsibility as I don't have the knowledge base to do several of the tasks. But important activities were gradually pushed in my direction and it really felt good to have that responsibility.
My understanding and handling of excel has improved several fold during my time. Furthermore, how to be efficient with my time when juggling several tasks at once, how to work under pressure and how to approach and interact with senior staff are all skills that I will not forget quickly!
The Company
Everyone was up for a laugh and a good chat when there wasn't too much to be getting on with, however when there was work to do, everyone knuckled down and got on with the serious business. Exactly the environment you'd want to have. However people still did remain positive and upbeat, even when things got tough.
In my opinion, things were very smooth - I didn't have any issues with regards to access to work or the introductory few days. Maybe I was fortunate as I was provided with a team that provided me with a constant stream of work.
Investment in my eyes came through the senior members on my desk taking their time to explain things to me and help me understand how things work. Yes there were some fancy do's and fun activities thrown in by HR, but it was that time that I found so valuable.
Company Parties/Events
I'd like to hope that I've made a good impression and will be strongly considered for the graduate position, but it is very difficult to tell given the competition and the lack of hints that we have been provided with.
The Culture
Not bad. People tried to meet up regularly on Fridays, but with work hours varying quite substantially from department to department, it was very difficult to meet up with everyone consisitently. When we did catch up though, we had a good time with each other.
Canary wharf is so expensive. But coming from a University lifestyle into this environment was always going to be a bit of a shock!! When the first paycheque came in, the cost of things didn't seem to bad - hopefully I can revert back to my old cautious ways when I go back to University!
London has a lot to offer and you don't have to go very far to find it!
There wasn't much time on offer to find things to do really as the majority of my working week was spent at the desk. I'm sure there were plenty of things to do if I'd have had the chance.
Details
Internship (1 Month+)
Investment Banking
London
August 2013