Business Operations Review

First 6 months, as things were new and exciting, I loved my placement! However, as I became more familiar with the company and the role I was doing, I realised it was not for me. Good placement for those particularly interested in technology, development of tech, and sales.

Mostly very highly valued, but there were occasional instances which marred my overall perception

This is one of the areas I believe IBM need to improve - I went months at a time without seeing any of my management team! Emails and phone calls can only go so far...

Difficult to answer as this varied so much. I'd go from working 10 hours one day to twiddling my thumbs the next...

I felt the tasks given to me were of high importance, and the word produced actually used by my colleagues

I believe many of the skills I developed will be transferable to anything I do in the future - communication (written and verbal), confidence, presentation skills etc

Started very quietly, however generally very friendly. There has recently been a boost in numbers which has been nice, although perhaps a little too active sometimes now!

There are just too many processes, things feel over organised! A bit more of a relaxed (but still professional) approach could be used...

My manager invested in me a lot, as did a couple of other colleagues who took me under their wings. Foundation (the team who oversee all of the placement, grads and interns etc) tried to help our development with workshops etc, but none of it was specific to individuals - it was all too forced

For many, a future with IBM sounds great - however I know it is not for me. This would not stop me recommending others to work here, as I have enjoyed my time here.

In my location there was a nice number of around 25 placement students, which made for a great social scene. I get the impression that in locations with more interns (eg London), this is not so much the case.

Very affordable - I managed to live off of my wage comfortably and save money on top

Perfect for me as I don't really like clubs. Lots of nice pubs, restaurants and bars. A few clubs around for those who are interested.

IBM is fantastic for this. There is the IBM Club which organises subsidised events for employees, employees have to pay just 1p per day to be a member (20p a month, not bad)! Events I attended included Alton Towers, a Christmas meal at Warwick Castle, plenty of pub quiz/meal combos, other Christmas parties, softball, pitch and putt...