Marketing Graduate Review

The work life balance is excellent at Telefonica O2. There is an informal, relaxed but professional atmosphere created by the smart-casual dress code and flexible working (you can work from home once/twice a week!)

My colleagues included me in all team meetings and calls. I was always asked for my opinion even early on when I didn't feel I had anything to add! They even involved me in the social side of working life too to make me feel welcomed.

My manager is amazing. I know some people haven't been as lucky, I think it does depend on who you get on how much time they will dedicate to you. But my manager would arrange a 121 at least once a week and always welcome emails/calls from me if I needed help or guidance. Futhermore, he would defend and support me if I didn't do something particularly well and help me improve for next time.

My job involves lots of busy and not so busy moments. Due to the nature of the work a lot of what I do depends on others so it's not consistent but I never feel overwhelmed but I always feel challenged. I also like the fact that I can work hard in the office but once I "clock off" i am able to fully stop working.

I am treated like one of the team and given lots of responsibility but again not without support.

This job is a steep learning curve so I cannot express how much I have developed by being at O2.

The office is very quiet to be honest but it is productive. There is a desk rotation where you book first come first served so you always sit next to new people and meet new people. I have never known a more friendly company though.

There were quite a lot of teething issues, it took a long time to get set up, get access to everything, get my pass etc etc but once the first month was over I feel more integral and welcomed. Now I'm settled I think they track my progress more closely and are keen to help me if I struggle.

I am invited to attend lots of training and learning sessions, whichever ones take my interest. There is also a strong focus on Personal Development Plans to make sure you are working towards your personal goals. They also pay for my subscription membership to various relevant publications to help my knowledge/improve my learning.

It seems if you do a good job, they look after their own so there is lots of opportunities. I've heard endless stories from people who have moved loads around the business so I think even if you come in doing something you're not keen on, you can try your hand at something else if you are proactive.

We have lots of "socials" at least once a week. These are organised by peers so don't expect teh company to do it for you. However, we did have an away week in London which was all expenses paid which was great fun. There were lots of team building and networking opportunities.

Rent in Reading for a 2 bed flat is roughly £300-500 per month, Windsor is £400-600 per month. I think the more people you share with the cheaper it is. The company set up a Facebook group for new joiners to help people find eachother in order to find a house/flat share.

The office is based in Slough which doesn't have a well known nightlife scene! But windsor is lovely and Reading is also close for a night out.

There are external events which I am invited to, most of what I do is within work though.