03/07/2014
Interview of the month: Internship in the field of HR
Magdalena Denz is studying Internationale Business Adminstration and has completed her internship for 6 month in Stuttgart in the field of HR. Afterwards she was employed in the same department as working student and there she is currently writing her thesis. In this interview she is talking about her experiences.
Why did you decide for a traineeship with Voith?
There are several reasons why I opted for Voith. First of all, Voith is an international company, which was important for me. In addition, Voith has a location in Poland where I originally come from. Secondly, the range of tasks listed in the job advert looked really interesting, with a comprehensive and highly diverse range of responsibilities. And thirdly, the job interview at Voith was really pleasant, which instantly appealed to me. I was warmly welcomed by Mrs. Petra Jepsen, and the atmosphere during our meeting was very friendly and agreeable.
How was your first day at Voith?
My first day at Voith was really enjoyable. Of course I was very nervous, but, as it turned out, for no reason. I had a warm welcome from Mrs. Renelt at the reception desk and later in my office from Mrs. Petra Jepsen. I was also pleasantly surprised to get a welcome pack consisting of a Voith information folder with all essential documents about the company, a flower bouquet, a Voith mug and a key ring. A fantastic first impression! All colleagues were very friendly and one could sense the positive working climate. During the day I was introduced to the history, the organization structure and the standards and values of Voith. I felt really welcome and in good hands.
What was your very first task?
To be honest I can't really remember my first task. During my first week I was given several small jobs that I managed to complete quite well. For example the translation of an application form for the employment of family members into my mother tongue - Polish - for Voith Industrial Services Sp. z o. o. Poland, and researching how to work with the EURES portal on workers' mobility.
What does a trainee usually do during a day at Voith?
There is really no universal answer to this question. I was given a wide variety of tasks, which I was allowed to handle independently. One of my main duties was the definition and implementation of a more effective selection process for applicants. The project covered the preparation of training materials, the planning and organization of the training sessions on "How to conduct an interview professionally". In addition I also had an opportunity to attend the preparations and the introduction for the on-boarding standards at Voith. Another interesting task was assisting with the applications management in Germany. During this project I was asked to conduct my first telephone interviews. I also participated in the international recruitment of Spanish expert personnel as part of the cooperation with AHK in Spain, and I was asked to help with the preparation of "Management Reviews" and thus get a first insight. As far as the day-to-day business is concerned I was in charge of preparing a number of PowerPoint presentations and creating transnational overviews of employment legislation and wage structures in Europe.
How close is your relationship with your colleagues?
As I said before, the working climate at Voith is really very pleasant. My colleagues were always friendly and helpful. We always went to lunch together. During my traineeship I was able to make many personal contacts, which I hope to keep up for years to come.
What was your best and your worst experience during your traineeship?
That's a difficult question, because all my experiences were special. Every day was a good day and I enjoyed going to work day after day. One of my favorite memories is definitely the day when I was asked to carry out the project "Preparation and Implementation of Training Courses" independently. Another great moment was the praise from my boss for my good support and the first telephone interview I was allowed to hold without supervision.
There really aren't any bad moments during a traineeship with Voith. For me, the training was just perfect.
To whom would you recommend your traineeship?
I would recommend the traineeship to all applicants who are interested in working in HR and like to work independently.
Looking back, what have you learned during your traineeship?
Since I have lived in Germany for only a few years, the traineeship has given me an opportunity to find out and experience how German companies work. In addition I have learned how to approach individual projects in a structured manner - what needs to be considered and how important information and exchanging information are for the team and the project. Moreover I was able to intensify the HR knowledge acquired during my studies and improve the processing and presentation of data and results. Another positive experience was the professional and friendly relationship with my colleagues. I was highly impressed by the work ethic of my boss who always had time for her staff and me as a trainee despite her high workload.
So how would you sum up your traineeship?
For me, the traineeship at Voith was a special time. I felt part of the HR team from day one, and thanks to the convivial and friendly atmosphere I really felt at home. The traineeship allowed me to complete a wide range of diverse and exciting tasks and gave me a good insight into HR work in general and the internal processes at Voith. I would do the traineeship again at any time.
Many thanks for the interview!
