Purchasing Apprentice Review

I book in software certificates for invoicing and chase distributors for certificates that we have no received yet. I answer account managers queries - such as finding old certificates for them so that they know when they need to renew their customers licenses. I manage a busy personal inbox as well as a shared purchasing inbox, which receives about 200-300 emails per day.

I have learnt how to use a few different platforms, such as Sales Logix and Microsoft Dynamics, both of which I had no idea how to use prior to starting at Softcat. I have developed my organizing skills massively, as well as my communication; the atmosphere in our office makes it very easy to be heard, even if you are not very confident.

I enjoy the work as it keep me very busy so time flies by! My team are amazing and make coming into work exciting rather than daunting; even on Monday mornings! The companies culture is completely unique - everyone is so pleasant to work with and be around. It exceeded my expectations; which were already set very high before starting. I love it!

We had a three day induction where we learnt about our course structure as well as the structure of the business; what Softcat do, their values etc... Sales apprentices had a further week and a half training, whereas, non sales had some session to outline our course structure and content. For my role, I trained side by side with my mentor who I shadowed for a few days, and then tackled some tasks head on. I have apprenticeship meetings once a month where we go over work I have completed and tasks that I need to complete before the next session in a months time. My programme is organised well, in addition, I can track my progress easily and accurately.

I have regular meetings with my team leader, who I keep up to date with how my apprenticeship work is going, also, she has access to my portal, so she is able to track my progress on there. The HR team offer support at all times for any problems that may occur. Furthermore, my mentor offers constant support in all areas, especially work related as I still ask questions on a regular basis, however, I can go to her for help/advice that isn't about my role. The attitude towards support is that it is essential for each individuals growth, so large chunks of time are set aside to address any issues, as well as being available for a chat throughout the day

I have received a good level of support; nothing has been spoon fed to me, however, when I need pointing in the right direction or some more guidance it is always there, either in a monthly meeting or I can contact my tutor by email with a quick response. This makes getting support very accessible. Yes, I enjoy my course, there is a lot of interesting content to learn.

My qualification gives a better overview as to how businesses work and the different types of people that you will come across. It has helped me in my role as we have learnt about different learning styles and did a quiz to identify our own style. This has helped me to absorb information more efficiently.

There are a variety of social events that go on; in my first three months we have had four events, such as the Christmas party and evening drinks for apprentices. There's football open to anyone on Monday nights as well as a variety of others, like poker nights every quarter. There is a huge range of social opportunities open to everyone at the company.

Yes

I speak very highly of Softcat, and have already referred some friends for job roles in the short time I have been here as it is an amazing place to work. There are a wide variety of jobs roles which require different skill sets; anyone could find a job that they are suited to within the company. There is a very high ceiling at the company, which is an attractive trait for young people looking to join a company, in addition, there is always opportunities to change roles if you don't enjoy your current role/you prefer another.

I would tell others to just be yourself and relax, the interview process isn't stressful or tense as it is a very relaxed and kind environment which really lets you open up. I would also advise people to read up about the company values and history to give some better insight into what we do and what we are about.