Account Manager Support Intern Review

I really enjoyed my internship with Handelsbanken. I was given an insight into day-to-day banking, having come to the internship with no experience in banking. The colleagues I have had the opportunity to work with were very approachable and welcoming, and the experience was definitely a worthwhile way to spend the summer.

The culture of the bank was excellent, with a very welcoming team. The time put into my training made me feel valued, as did the way I was treated with respect and as part of the team. The responsibility I was given on various projects showed the value placed on me being there.

Regular support was given by way of weekly meetings with my manager. Outside of these meetings, I was always able to my branch manager whenever, who was genuinely interested in my development as an intern, and making sure any potential concerns were addressed. The culture of Handelsbanken is supportive, with colleagues always willing to give up their time to help.

From the start of the internship, I was busy learning the Handelsbanken computer systems and the way the branch is run. I was able to organise my own days, prioritising work and tasks. Daily business was quite varied, due to the nature of the project work. On quieter days, it was possible to spend time with other Account Manager Support staff, and learn how to carry out new tasks. This allowed me to work on time management skills.

Most of the work I undertook had to be authorised by another colleague, which gave some peace of mind when altering important data. Tasks such as opening and amending accounts required great attention to detail. I was given responsibility for carrying out two main administrative projects, which allowed me to work independently.

The training received gave me a basic introduction to banking, providing me with a good basis for a potential career with the bank. The internship also allowed me to grow in confidence in a professional environment and respected business, and has encouraged me to look at working towards further qualifications.

The general office atmosphere was great. Everyone was really friendly, as well as the staff being professional and hardworking. As well as each individual being good to work with, there was a positive team atmosphere, where colleagues enjoyed talking to one another, while being mindful of getting on with work as well.

The internship was structured mainly around project work, with each project taking around three weeks to complete while simultaneously working on daily tasks. However, structure was also provided the initially bi-weekly then weekly catch-ups with the manager, discussing my progress and any future work I'd like to get involved with. While the informal structure could be seen as a negative, this way of working allowed me to take on work as it arose, meaning each day involved slightly different work.

The training was mostly given in the form of in-branch training, from another member of the team. Lots of time was given up by my supervisor to teach me the computer systems and introduce me to the role of Account manager Support. A visit to the regional Head Office gave me a wider view of regional roles and departments, and how the work of the branch fitted with this. Initial development was conducted through online learning modules, which took a few days to complete and are designed to educate employees on important matters such as data protection and suspicious behaviour to be on guard against.

Any future employment prospect with Handelsbanken is appealing. The company culture and nature of those working there means I would be very happy to continue working for Handelsbanken.

There didn't seem to be any social scene amongst interns, that I got the experience. There was an intern day available at the beginning of the summer for interns to be introduced to their role and have the chance to meet other interns at regional Head Office. However, this took place before I had started my internship. Whilst I was given the opportunity to meet those working at regional Head Office, it would have been encouraging to meet other interns working in the area. However, staff events do take place throughout the year, and I was able to attend a meal out with other Account Manager Support colleagues.

The cost of living outside of the city where the internship was based would have been too high. However, it is relatively easy to find reasonably priced accommodation a short distance away in the city. Travel in an around Nottingham is easy and well priced, with the many mostly reliable transport links making it unnecessary to have a car.

The nightlife in Nottingham city centre is good, with plenty of restaurants, bars and clubs to choose from.

Besides occasional branch meals and drinks out, there weren't any activities that I know of to get involved in outside of work.