Marketing Assistant Review

I really enjoyed my placement, I was treated as a proper employee and given real tasks and responsibilities. Of course I came across challenges or stresses but that made it all the more rewarding. My role has been extremely varied and I have been able to try out lots of different types of marketing which is a bonus. I feel like I have really developed as a person from my time here.

The culture at 3M is one that expects you to go above and beyond as standard, as a result if you want feedback you often have to ask for it (unless you aren't doing well). Thankfully, I feel like I have received praise and constructive criticism where due, and that lets me know I am valued and respected.

My managers have been very supportive. As mentioned you do have to speak up when you are struggling, but each and every time I have, they have been able to coach me through the situation. Meaning my need for support and guidance rapidly diminished throughout the year.

Daily my routine varies a lot because of the autonomous nature of my role. We had flexitime and we are not constantly supervised, this meant I have quiet days and overly busy days. However I naturally prefer too busy to too quiet so I'm happy with this style of working, quiet days were an opportunity to recharge for the busy ahead.

Responsibilities have developed throughout my year. I have been given real projects with real consequences and worked with major customers of my divisions. I don't know how to quantify responsibility but I was given a lot.

The main skills I've developed have been; Presenting Digital/Written Communication Analytical Team Work Networking Organisation PowerPoint Skills Excel Skills I believe all of these are great to come away with as they will apply to almost any role I might take in the future.

Atmosphere was not so good this year as they have described in previous years due to the amount of change that was happening. Less staff so quieter and everyone is working harder, so a little more stressed. That being said the atmosphere is still majoritively positive, and I think this will be better for the next set of placement students.

As each placement here is very different depending on division it is very quick and easy to get settled in as your managers know exactly where to place you. We also have a central learning course with events throughout the year which teach us skills which is enjoyed.

I think slightly more could have been done to invest in me from a teaching point of view , but that being said I do think I've been extremely lucky in the level of on the job experience I have gained.

There will be a graduate program in place by the time I graduate so this increases chances, regardless of that though previous placement students often come back so I am hopeful for the future.

Absolutely! our group of placement students were all good friends and did regular bnights out and other activities together. Although this is very much down to who you and your fellow placement students are as people.

Rent was £450 in a shared house and a night out (including return taxi, pres and a few drinks) was about £50 so relatively expensive... that is living in reading though, I'd still recommend. There's lots to do in the surrounding area with or without a car and its close enough to London for day trips.

a night out (including return taxi, pres and a few drinks) was about £50 so relatively expensive... that is living in reading though, I'd still recommend

The company has sports and social clubs, and also a regular night out socials. We also do volunteering and other projects if you want with work. Beyond that their are clubs in the local area not related to work that you can join.