18/08/2014
Interview with Mrs. Frey-Keddi on the Subject "Training and Application at Voith"
Mrs. Frey-Keddi, Head of High School Programs, currently looks after 83 dual students at Voith in Heidenheim. Today she answers our questions in an interview focusing on how to apply for a training place at Voith.
What is the significance of dual study programs in your company?
We have been training young people at Voith for 100 years. For 38 years, we have been partners of today's DHBW Baden-Württemberg Cooperative State University (formerly University of Cooperative Education) and offer young people the opportunity to complete a dual study course. The number of annual placements is regulated in our works council agreement; for this reason there are no significant fluctuations in our acceptance rates - for example 30 placements in one year and then only five in the following year This continuity signifies the high importance that we attach to the dual study model. We regard it as an investment for the future when we train the specialists and executives of tomorrow already today.
How does the application process work at Voith? (Application deadline, online, mail or written application, interviews, assessment center, etc.)?
Our application phase in Heidenheim always runs from 1 July to 30 September. It must be borne in mind that it is essential to apply one year in advance, i. e. applicants who would like to start their training in 2015, should send us their application documents online on our careers page between 1 July 2014 and 30 September 2014.
The actual selection process at Voith can be summarized in three stages. First of all we check all incoming applications by formal criteria and grades. As a next step, applicants that look suitable are then invited to an online test in our company; here we distinguish between technical and commercial tests. Those who pass the online test will then attend a selection day, where the candidates - alongside a job interview - also have to solve tasks in groups. In this way we are able to test characteristics such as a capacity for teamwork and structural thinking. We always invite three times as many applicants to our selection day than there are vacancies.
What do you watch out for when you see an application for the first time?
I always check whether the application has been individually tailored to Voith. Unfortunately we notice more and more that the introduction of online applications has led to an increase of errors caused by copying and pasting addresses and salutations of different companies. Such mistakes can be avoided by working with utmost care and having the application documents counterchecked by friends, family members or teachers. Moreover, the introductory letter should not be too epic but a short and precise statement why the applicant is the right candidate for the post. Photographs are no longer a must today, but they are still a nice touch and complete the application. People who would like to add a photograph should opt for a professional shot by a photographer who can provide additional advice. We actually had applications with holiday snaps from the beach - something that should be avoided.
What is an absolute no-go?
At the job interview and during the selection days, inappropriate clothing or unexcused lateness create a negative impression. I would also like to advise all applicants to have another look at their CV and get to know the basic facts about Voith. And if we notice unfair behavior towards co-applicants during the selection days, this will also have negative consequences for the misbehaving candidate.
What is the best way to convince you? What are your conditions and how important are school grades?
Good school-leaving qualifications are important. But our multi-stage selection process has shown that grades alone are not decisive. A successful dual study course actually builds on the basic knowledge acquired at school. We also place great importance on the personal qualifications of the applicants. Examples are voluntary or honorary activities, and additional qualifications obtained outside school or holiday jobs are an indication of commitment and therefore regarded favorably.
In which way can pupils or students utilize Youtsy to their advantage?
Today it seems advisable to send more than just two or three applications. And here it is an advantage that Youtsy offers an overview of addresses where pupils can apply trans-regional or even on a nationwide basis. In addition it is also very helpful that Youtsy provides very clear-cut advice on entering professional life, for example by giving specific application tips.
Let's presume the applicant has made it. What expects a pupil when he or she enters your company? How do you help the young people to master the first phase of their professional life?
The dual study course starts with an orientation week, during which the dual students attend presentations about our values and our sustainability concept. There is also a works tour, and the students are invited to attend a time management seminar. During the first week we will also outline the actual study program of the next three years and clarify organizational issues, for example the transition from the practical to the theoretical part.
What do you expect from the pupils?
We expect from our dual students that they are hard-working and dedicated to the cause. Because this is the only way for them to master their demanding studies. In addition, we anticipate that they are reliable and capable of working in a team. Apart from seeing organizational skills and a good measure of self-confidence it is also important for us that our values, such as colleagueship and openness, are actively lived.
Which other forms of education, support or team building exercises do you offer during the training (seminars, sports activities, travel allowances, etc.)?
During the training we offer a range of seminars, for example on IT subjects, English, controlling or the product worlds of Voith. Our dual students receive generous financial support it they go abroad as part of their studies. They are able to do this both during their practical and their theoretical phase. Once a year there is also a workshop for all dual students from different years where they can swap experiences and exchange opinions. In order to make the transition from the theoretical to the practical phase easier, we also publish a newsletter four times a year, which is directed exclusively at our dual students and informs them about the latest developments in the company. In this way they are always up today and able to get an overview of current topics and events are Voith during their theoretical phase.
How good are the chances of being offered a permanent job after the training?
From autumn 2015 we offer unlimited recruitment. But at least one third of our dual students plan to continue their education and start a Master's degree. .
And finally: do you have any personal tips for future applicants?
If you have any queries and decide to contact us by telephone, don't be shy and give us a ring!
Many thanks for the interview!
