Test Analyst/ Operational Change Analyst Review

by IBM

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

10/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

On a day to day basis I get excellent exposure to all areas of IBM business. I work for clients on work that really makes a difference. At the moment I am a test analyst and complete software testing and trouble shooting. I get exposure to the client and work within an excellent team.

10/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

My IT skills have trebled in the short amount of time I have been here. I have learnt how to do things I never fathomed I would know how to do. I am learning alot about business too. I have 24hr access to thousands of learning courses and can gain pretty much any qualification I could want. Both internal and external courses are supported highly by IBM.

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I enjoy it so much. It is the best decision I have ever made - to apply for IBM. I consider myself very fortunate to have a job here.

10/10

4. How valued do you feel by IBM?

Very valued. I am hired as a permanent employee with the same rights and opportunities as any other. I am an IBMer.

10/10

5. How well organised/structured is your programme?

Very we;l structured. IBM has a range of specifically designed courses that enhance my personal and business skills. So far they have given me an excellent grounding in IT & business and I continue to gain new skills every day. Induction brought me up to speed with IBM products and services and thought me the skills and practices needed to be successful. We have an excellent mentoring system that allows new recruits to find their feet very quickly.

10/10

6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?

Excellent support whenever it is needed. Guidance and help with any problem.

10/10

6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?

More support than expected. Manager can help with pretty much any query i have and is very supportive. IBM is very good at supporting and funding any training I want/need to do. Support is easily accessible through all the different tools and programs available to me.

10/10

7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?

I suppose everyone could do with a bit extra but I can comfortably live away from home and support my car and lifestyle on this wage. Any additional cost- training, work travel, work accommodation e.c.t. will be paid for by IBM. Location is great

10/10

8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?

More opportunities than I care to mention. Many run and organised by the IBM apprentices and graduates. Company holds many events to raise exposure and training. Classes, clubs and events for pretty much anything you can imagine and if there isn't something you want the support is there for you to organise,

10/10

9. Would you recommend IBM to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Because I truly believe this is the best apprenticeship scheme in the UK. It offers unparalleled training and opportunities.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to IBM?

Be completely honest when filling out the application form. Try to think of the best examples where you have shown IBM core competencies. Interviews/Assessment days - be yourself. That's what they look for, people that can communicate well with others, be articulate.If you have got this far then they like what they see on paper so try and get your personality across. In the group activities - time manage, offer alternative points of view and balance your views and those of others before deciding. Experience/Opportunities - always put yourself out for new opportunities. When I joined IBM i hated presenting. It was my biggest fear, I was given ample opportunities to do presentations and it really helped me improve. Now I like doing it. You can read all the books on how to ride a bike but until you get on it you won't get better. Same goes for presenting!