Marketing Assistant Review

I enjoyed my placement with 3M. My role was interesting as I was conversing with colleagues based across Europe on a daily basis. Everyone was very approachable regardless of their position and keen to help me and progress.

My immediate team went out of their way to make sure I was up to speed in the initial weeks of my placement. Colleagues were always keen to answer any questions I had if I was unsure. Colleagues from other divisions were also always helpful and friendly in both professional and social instances.

My line manager was always keen to provide feedback and advice whether that be when I had a decision to make or prepare for a presentation. Weekly discussions were useful to keep me on track and make sure my projects were progressing at a good pace.

It varied. I had long term projects, whereby tasks could occasionally be held up, and short-term high priority tasks would crop up. I liked having a range of high and low priority tasks as it made each day vary.

My line manager gave me projects that were my sole responsibility. However, he and the team were always on hand when I needed assistance. Ultimately, it was my responsibility to plan, organise, present and implement tasks directly related to my projects.

My placement year has allowed me to demonstrate workplace skills that graduate employers deem vital. Having the opportunity to present to senior managers, make business decisions and analyse financial data are some of the skills that will not only be useful for my future career, but also in my final year of study.

My immediate department was fairly quiet as most of the team were based across Western Europe. However, on the whole in the wider office, everyone seemed to be like-minded with a positive work-hard play-hard, sociable attitude.

My role was very well organised as upon arrival my line manager had outlined my expectations and a schedule for my first few weeks of learning and training.

There was a programme designed for the placement students, however, I did feel that it wasn't as beneficial as the day-to-day work I was doing. Some of the activities were beneficial for networking skills development purposes.

Future recruitment for graduates in the company is uncertain.

Majority of the placement students became good friends. We spent most weekends socialising and some weekday evenings.

Typical South East, outskirts of London prices.

Reading is good for students.

There are sports teams with weekly games and occasional tours abroad. Some of the divisions often have work socials.