I initially applied for the Target Jobs’ Management Undergraduate of the Year award to test myself against the best, see how far I had progressed and to be able to network with students and organisations alike. Another benefit of the process was being able to practice psychometric tests, hone my interview skills and get more assessment centre experience. I made it all the way to the final assessment centre having been successful in the telephone interview.
The assessment centre was a great experience and I met like-minded undergraduates and got the opportunity to see what an assessment centre was really like. What I also really benefitted from was the feedback I received at every stage of the process. This is invaluable for students!!
The competition was tough and although I did not win, I enjoyed the experience and gave me the opportunity to build up my network. I still include making the final assessment centre in my CV.
Talking of networking… having met the team and getting to know more about Enterprise and the opportunities they offer I decided to apply for a year in industry with them. The experience of going through the application process for the award set me up for success in the application process for the placement year.
I completed a one-year industrial placement with Enterprise and now nearing the end of my final year of study I have had time to reflect on my year. Placements can vary massively depending on what area of business you’re interested in, what you excel in and how motivated you are to succeed. However one thing all placement students will experience is working hard. This is never hidden from applicants as if they aren’t prepared for the workload they will sink not long after starting. What makes the work easier is the type of person Enterprise look to recruit. The fact you will join a team full of outgoing motivated individuals means that the days appear shorter, and the busy ones are great fun.
I completed the Management Trainee training whilst on placement which means I received two bonuses and a pay rise within my year, all very impressive for a placement. Since returning to University I have become a part time Campus Brand Manager, increasing brand awareness on campus in the hope of getting even more exciting young stars to join the Enterprise team.
Upon graduation I hope to return to Enterprise and because of my promotion in my placement year I will go in above the fresh graduates that didn’t complete a placement. With the internal recruitment policy I am hoping to become an Assistant Manager within a few months of returning and a Branch Manager within the year.
This is not an ordinary 9-5 but if you’re passionate about customer service and sales, are motivated and want an unparalleled career progression path then get applying for an internship or a graduate job now!
