Customer Engineer Review

by IBM

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8.8/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

I am currently an IBM Customer Engineer. This means that on a daily basis I am fixing IBM enterprise systems. The team I work in acts as a support structure for all of the team members allowing us to share information and knowledge of the machines. We interact with external customers on a daily basis as we need permission from the customer to undertake maintenance on their machine.

9/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

Along with the apprenticeship qualification, I have also been able to develop my technical knowledge and practical skills. The course has also allowed me to develop my 'soft skills' such as handling client relationships and presentation skills.

8/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I'm really enjoying the programme. The team I work with was a great help when I first started and the company as a whole is very accepting. I enjoy my job as there is a lot of variety, no two days are the same.

9/10

4. How valued do you feel by IBM?

Once I was set up in IBM I was very much treated like a normal team member. As my internal training continues I will be able to work on a wider variety of machines and my involvement in my business are will increase.

8/10

5. How well organised/structured is your programme?

I think IBM has an extremely organized programme. Induction, training and support are provided from the get go and you're in constant contact with your personal development manager.

9/10

6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?

N/A see 6B. My employer is my training provider.

9/10

6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?

IBM offers a variety of support. Your PDM (personal development manager) can offer support for any issues outside of work as well as supporting you through your career development. We also have FBAs who offer support for any business related issues such as expenses. We then have our task managers and daily task managers who can give you guidance on your specific job role.

10/10

7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?

My salary covers all of my costs and I often have money spare.

10/10

8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?

IBM offers giveback opportunities to help local schools and colleges as well offering discounts in specific gyms and sports clubs.

7/10

9. Would you recommend IBM to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

IBM offers a great scheme which can act as a great springboard for your career in IT.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to IBM?

Be yourself, don't just try to impress the interviewer. If they ask you what you want to do long term don't just say "work for IBM" - unless you do want to work for them forever- tell them the truth.