Industrial Placement Review

Working for Aldi during my placement was extremely rewarding. Although the placement requires high levels of devotion and a very strong work ethic, the amount you learn about yourself and the retail sector throughout the process is invaluable.

Everyone at Aldi were excellent to work with. Regular interaction with the regions directors during the project work and office time of the program made me feel as though I truly part of the team and not just there for a placement year.

Although the work loads and expectations were high when working for the company, the support given was great. The mentor I was assigned helped me develop my skills and was there when needed. They provided constructive criticism and praise on a regular basis which was vital to my success. All colleagues were always willing to offer advice when I needed it, especially during my project work.

The scoring for this question is odd as it makes the assumption that working hard is a negative thing! I was very busy almost every day of my placement however you cannot expect to be on one of the top placements and have an easy ride. You work hard but are rewarded with a great salary and invaluable experience.

I was given the opportunity to run a store with turnover in the millions. I was responsible for every aspect, from doing the ordering to training and developing staff. I was also assigned two projects whereby the scheduling and delivery of them was all down to me. I was treated the same as the Graduate Trainee Area Managers who joined at the same time as myself and given all the opportunities and responsibilities they were. I think it would be a struggle to find another placement that offers the level of responsibility Aldi does.

I have developed a strong work ethic, vital experience in leading and managing teams, excellent time management skills and a degree of professionalism that I can take with me for the rest of my life.

Part of the training program requires you spend time at the regional office. All the colleagues were great people and regular interaction with the directors was a great opportunity to gain some in-depth knowledge about the company and how to conduct yourself in a professional environment.

I was given a training program on my first day which was great. However the program did change very often but every effort was always made to ensure that I was given the opportunity to complete everything I wanted to.

This was the aspect that made the placement so worth while for me. As mentioned previously, responsibility and opportunity was always given to me at every turn. Every day I learnt something new whether it be about business, the company or myself. I have developed greatly as a person and the placement has given me a huge advantage for my future.

My future with the company was discussed on my final day. I have not yet made a decision simply due to the fact that a lot could during my final year at university and I need to know my personal circumstances before I decide.

A Christmas meal and party was organised. They were also a few meals organised also.

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If you managed your time well, you could find time get involved in activities outside work.