Summary: Through her business administration apprenticeship, Leila has gained experience in different areas of the company and developed a passion for customer service.
What led you to start your apprenticeship?
I was led to start my apprenticeship when I was in college studying A-Levels. I decided that college was not what I wanted to pursue, so I started looking for other options. I was steered in the direction of an apprenticeship by the careers advice team at college. I was intrigued by the idea of learning on the job whilst earning at the same time. PETA made the apprenticeship application process straightforward, and the telephone interview gave me details regarding the company I would be joining.
Please tell us your current job title and what a typical day for you would involve?
As Apprentice Business Account Administrator at Harwin, my role includes crucial responsibilities that ensure seamless customer experience and operational efficiency. In a typical day, I load customers' orders, verify automated ordering processes to ensure accuracy, and respond quickly to customer enquiries. Additionally, I am entrusted with raising and coordinating investigations into incidents, liaising closely with the Customer Service Supervisor and Quality Assurance team.
Tell us about your experience as an apprentice...
Since starting my apprenticeship journey, I have had a positive experience throughout. I have gained new skills such as teamwork, communication, adaptability, and independence. Some of my proudest achievements have come from my apprenticeship, such as presenting to groups and meeting new people, which previously I found hard to achieve. Throughout my training experience, I have received support and encouragement from my colleagues at Harwin and the team at PETA, which has helped make my apprenticeship an enjoyable experience.
What do you enjoy most about doing an apprenticeship?
What I enjoy most about doing an apprenticeship is gaining experience within the company. I benefit from learning new tasks and collaborating with my colleagues, who have helped build my product knowledge. The hands-on learning and additional support from my development coach at PETA, allowed me to tackle challenges head-on, whereas before I lacked the confidence and independence I have now.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
In the next 5 years, my long-term ambition is to work my way into a leadership role. I would like to continue down the customer service route, where I can progress and develop a team which continues to provide outstanding customer service.
What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship?
A piece of advice I would give someone considering an apprenticeship is to be willing to learn and take on new challenges. During an apprenticeship your trainer, coach and employer will notice the hard work and effort you put into the role. If you always keep a positive mindset, even when you approach challenges, this will leave a great impression on your employer and could secure a job at the end of your training.
How has an apprenticeship helped you progress within your role and company?
My apprenticeship has helped me progress within my role and company because I am learning new skills and gaining experience on the job. Throughout my apprenticeship I have gained product knowledge, how to use different areas of the system, communication skills, I.T skills and the opportunity to contribute to Harwin’s success. My apprenticeship has allowed me to take the time to learn my role step-by-step as well as learning general business administration at my training days at PETA. The training contributes to my progression in my customer service role, whilst improving my I.T skills along the way.