Oliver Malik took a placement opportunity with us as part of his university degree, we sadly had to say goodbye to him recently, but before he left we sat with him to find out everything on his year placement with us.
How did you secure your placement year with us?
I was looking for a placement in sales and a friend at university suggested I have a look into recruitment, particularly Marks Sattin. After doing some research and applying online, I had an initial phone call and was quickly invited to the London office to meet some managers and directors. A few weeks later I received a call asking me to come back for an introduction to the C&I qualified temp team, who I would be working with for the year.
What made you take this one over other placement opportunities?
I had a little recruitment and sales opportunities on the go, however the opportunity at MS was offering a much broader role, with a lot more responsibility. Also, having met the wider team before I joined, I felt that MS was the best cultural fit for me.
Tell us about your team, and what responsibilities your placement role involved?
I work on the qualified interim team, managed by Sub Malik, which covers all of the commerce and industry sector. My specialism was focused on various roles and seniority, for clients within the retail, media, advertising and FMCG. Having 360 responsibility as a key element of my role, I had the chance to get involved in everything from managing the candidates through to dealing with the end client and developing new business. This exposed me to all the areas of the business.
What surprised you most about your placement year?
The biggest surprise has been the people I’ve worked with! This has been my first experience of working life and I didn’t expect to be working with such a good group of people. My team and the wider division have been very helpful throughout the year and are always up for a laugh.
What has been your key takeaway from your time with us?
I will take a lot away from my placement year. However, one key aspect is my ability to communicate and present professionally, which has developed after having the opportunity to go out and lead meetings with senior clients.
Now that you have had a taste of recruitment, do you reckon you might come back after you have graduated!?
I have really enjoyed my placement year with MS, it’s been great for my development and a good fit culturally. If I had the opportunity to come back after graduation, I definitely would!
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