Rating

6.7/10
  • 1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
  • Problem Analyst - Using a number of different machines and software packages to track each and every problem lifecycle until closure.

    6/10

  • 2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
  • As a Gap Year Student, I haven't had the opportunity to take part in the same courses as the Apprentices; however I have been on a number of other courses such as security training and 'Gap Year Quarterly Meetings'.

    6/10

  • 3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
  • I enjoy working within my team as many employees are of a similar age (within my workplace specifically), with a large proportion of which being Apprentices. Company culture is good however reviews very much consist of 'other factors' such as 'Giveback', as opposed to how you perform within your actual role.

    7/10

  • 4. How valued do you feel by IBM?
  • Good level of involvement within team and role. Good appreciation from line manager, however few official appraisals or feedback given throughout the year.

    6/10

  • 5. How well organised/structured is your programme?
  • Good structure day to day and overall scheme structure also. Quarterly Gap Year meetings are great and allows you to catch up with other students regarding their roles etc, as well as learning during chosen workshops.

    7/10

  • 6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?
  • Free to contact manager at any point to discuss any underlying problems. Meet every 2-3 months to discuss current topics and clear up any queries etc.

    7/10

  • 6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?
  • Free to contact manager at any point to discuss any underlying problems. Meet every 2-3 months to discuss current topics and clear up any queries etc. HR and Recruitment happy to help whenever contacted via a quick and simple instant message, however it can sometimes be hard to contact the correct person you need - with the company being so large!

    8/10

  • 7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?
  • Salary is very good when compared to other students of my age. I live away nearer to work, run a car, have gym membership etc and live fairly comfortably. The only criticism is that every Apprentice I work with is granted 'Expenses', which some feel is unfair (to give to some but not all!). This means that I do sometimes have to turn down certain social events offered to me by the Apprentices, meaning I may not always be able to join in.

    7/10

  • 8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?
  • 7-a-side football has been arranged by some of the Apprentices, which is great to play as a team outside of work. Regarding company events etc, there is not actually anything offered by IBM as such. However unrelated to IBM, I do have a gym membership in the area.

    6/10

  • 9. Would you recommend IBM to a friend?
  • Yes


  • 9b. Why?
  • To have experience with a company such as IBM, pre-university, and to have the opportunity to move onto the Apprenticeship scheme,I feel is invaluable. I have made so many connections throughout my time with IBM, including executives and 'Partners'.


  • 10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to IBM?
  • Be yourself, be honest, be friendly. If successful, I would encourage people to take as many opportunities within the company as they can, say yes to as many chances to take part in other things!


Details

Gap Year Programme

Business Operations, Information Technology

North West

May 2015


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