GBS UKI Operations Team Review

I'm glad I took this year out at IBM. IBM offered a structured placement, allowed me to feel like an employee rather than 'just and intern' and gave me significant exposure to employees at all levels at the company. I was able to attend many external events and gain a large network and a large number of skills I will carry forward.

I was the subject matter expert on several areas within my role, so I felt valued constantly. Compounded with the fact that I was part of a team, and I performed tasks that others relied on meant that I was in constant communication and we were interdependent on each other. This solidified our bond as a team.

IBM offers early professional managers to all interns, which act like a mentor to you outside of your task manager (who delegates tasks to you) Having two levels of management you can speak to about different issues was a great system and worked well. EPM's are always there to assist and help you grow.

I was always active in managing ongoing processes within my role. That meant there was never a day without some form of work. There are times where the workload is more intense then others. But that means you can fill your spare time with the various opportunities that IBM has to offer.

My role was responsible in onboarding employees at all levels. This meant significant project management skills and efficient working. We liaised with several teams such as SouthBank security, catering and deployment. We performed processes often with confidential information or performed crucial tasks such as off-boarding employees or transferring them between business units.

Although I did not directly utilise my degree during this placement, I used skills such as problem-solving and data analysis. However the skills I've gained, such as confidence in networking, communicating with experienced colleagues and project management are those that I will continue to develop for the rest of my career.

A very calm and relaxed atmosphere, it is a team environment where we are open to talk amongst ourselves. This atmosphere allowed or efficient communication and working and work was done. We sat near other employees whom we built good working relationships with also. I always felt comfortable in the office.

IBM has a very impressive structure to it's placement. Namely with the system they set up with EPMS (Early Professional Managers) there are reviews and probations you must pass to ensure you stay on target throughout the year. There are also rigid teams and roles that you fit into that provide the business and yourselves real benefits.

Although there are a lot of opportunites for learning and development. In terms of actively engaging the interns workshops and events are often few and far between. However, when a workshop is set up they're definitely useful. That being said IBM's internal learning platform is useful to gain new skills in different subject areas.

This year has given me a positive impression of IBM's culture. I enjoy the inclusive and innovative environment that IBM embodies. Prospects are good, with GBS hiring tickets having a lot of spots for placement sutdents that excel. As for myself, if the right offer comes along it would be appealing to me.

Aside from one boat party, there were no large gatherings of the interns that worked at IBM. That being said, it really depends on the cohort of interns you have during your time. People separate into their own groups based on where they work for convenience. Going out for drinks happens quite a lot early on though.

If you currently live in London, and commute to work you will not spend too much money as it's just travel. However, if you rent accommodation near SouthBank the sheer cost of London housing will mean that you will have little money to socialise and eat out as a large portion of your money will be spent on rent.

Central London has a wealth of locations to go out clubbing. However, we mainly made use of the local bars and pubs. Namely Topolski and Understudy. I recommend the Pale ale, also go when its being paid for by someone else. One tip for future interns is to be proactive in organising nights out.

There are a lot of events and opportunities within IBM. Ranging from within your role or optional opportunities to get involved in. It all varies on how interested you are in seizing them. There are opportunities to giveback or even take a tour of IBM Hursley and shadow other departments.