Placement Year Review at IBM

The Role

Role Description

To be part of a team that develops, builds and coordinates business and sales materials & communications within one of the major sector/ SMB aligned business units within STG. The role is primarily one of a sales and operations analyst, supporting the BU leader and teams in driving sales and order fulfilment.

1. To what extent did you enjoy your work placement or internship?

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

I made the most of my work placement, taking advantage of a broad range of opportunities. It was a highly rewarding experience.

2. To what extent did you feel valued by your colleagues?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

I built strong working relationships with my direct colleagues and the wider IBM community.

3. To what extent were you given support and guidance by management/your supervisor(s)?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

Both my supervisor and PDM (Personal Development Manager) supported me throughout my placement. The support and guidance is there, it depends whether you want to make the most of it.

4. How busy were you on a daily basis?

★★★★★★★☆☆☆

Rated 7/10

On a daily basis my core work routine varied. If I wasn't busy, I was able to support other business functions.

5. How much responsibility were you given during your placement?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

If you demonstrate you have the ability to take on additional work, you can do.

6. To what extent did/will the skills you developed, and training you received, assist you in your degree studies and beyond?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

I strengthened my softer transferable skills whilst on placement, to the point where I feel much more confident with my own abilities. I believe the core skills I developed will set me in good stead in my future career.

The Organisation

7. What was the general atmosphere in your office?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

Due to flexible working, the IBM offices can be quiet on occasion. I reccommend going to where it is busy.

8. How well organised was the overall work placement or internship set up?

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

The placement scheme is extrememly structured and well organised. There is plenty of support if you want it.

9. In terms of personal training and development, to what extent did the company or firm invest in you?

★★★★★☆☆☆☆☆

Rated 5/10

Your PDM will try to help you harness your potential and help you make the most of your placement experience. There are opportunities for you to develop both your soft and more technical skills if you would like.

10. What were the perks on your work placement?

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

• Subsidised/Company Gym
• National Travel
• Financial Bonus
• Company Parties/Events
• Above 25 days holiday
• Working from home

11. How appealing are future employment prospects within the organisation?

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

If you perform well during your placement and make the right contacts, you stand a great chance of joining IBM as a graduate.

Other Information

12. Was there a good social scene amongst any fellow placement students/colleagues?

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

There are hundreds of students that join IBM on their placement year. The social scene is great and again, it is what you make of it.

13. What was the cost of living and socialising in the area you worked in?

★★★★★★★☆☆☆

Rated 7/10

This is completely dependent on your base location. Living in London is obviously more expensive in terms of accommodation and socialising costs. There are bargains/deals to be had!

14. What was the Nightlife like in the area you worked?

★★★★★★★★★★

Rated 10/10

London offers a fantastic night out! There is no denying that.

15. Were there many opportunities to get involved in activities outside of work?

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

Working hours are not too intense so you have the opportuntity to enjoy yourself away from the work environment.

In addition to these questions, is there any extra information you would like to leave about your experiences on your work placement that other students may be interested in?

I thoroughly recommend IBM for your placement experience!

Review 166/182 for IBM

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