Undergraduate Placement Programme Review

The fact that an Undergraduate can be exposed to that diversity of a Pan-European company like Lidl, was a source of constant gratification during the placement.

As with any placement, there is always an initial notion that you are just another work experience student. That said, as I grew in experience, knowledge and skills, I found that I became a source of information in certain circumstances. The fact that I was based in all areas of the business meant that I could provide up-to-date information on different departments.

The placement was in its first year within Scotland and the initial guidance could have been better. The beginning of my placement was slightly unorganised although as my role became clearer, so the placement went smoother.

When you begin in any new role your lack of experience and skills can lead to extra hours being required. These extra hours are however essential in teaching Time Management, improving leadership/delegation and communications skills.

Exposure to Head Office functions was for me, a complete eye opener into the wider business world. Lidl reward hard work and initiative with increased responsibility, and the old phrase "You get out what you put in" has proved correct over the last 11 months.

The Lidl Placement has provided the biggest step between my education and full time employability. I have a CV with a highly regarded Pan-European retailer, on the ‘Times Top 100 Graduate Employers’, and featuring a highly sought after placement.

The general atmosphere was positive and I was supported fully by colleagues in all work related matters. I would have enjoyed more time out with the office to get to know colleagues on a more personable level.

Initially the placement could have been better organised in regards to communication between different departments. However the overall setup in regards to departments you are exposed to, your role within the business, and the responsibility placed upon yourself, makes for an incredible 11 months.

On the job training forms the vast majority of development time throughout the placement. At each stage of the placement I have been assigned line managers, who have continually taken time out of their day to help me grow and develop. Senior Management have also been available for advice and knowledge on a regular basis throughout the placement.

have expressed an interest in working for the company once I graduate, in an area of particular interest. I have developed contacts and knowledge which has improved my prospects in regards to gaining full time employment. The Lidl Management Placement is looking for managers of the future, and the Placement is the perfect route into Graduate employment within Lidl.

On the various occasions when there is a national meeting of all Placement Students the atmosphere is always positive, fun, and full of laughs.

The location where I was located was not too expensive and they paid well as well

Nothing great, but could travel a little distance where good options were available

One particular event that I helped to organise and manage was a recruitment event in London. The event co-incided with the World Cup Final, and our recruitment drive was based around the event.