Team Leader Review

When I first started the apprenticeship I was a customer advisor, however since being on the programme I have progressed to a team leader. In this role I am responsible for running a team alongside the trading manager, currently I have 24 team members I ensure are all working efficiently and safely. I now also have the shared role of duty manager, meaning I am the manager in charge at that point ensuring the store is operating safe.

I have completed two internal training courses, these include a frist aid course and a fire champion course. These are a requirement for team leaders and trading managers. These also establish a further understanding of operating safely within the building and what to do when crisis arises. Also I have now completed the trading responsible module which means I can now key hold for the building which is an important responsibility.

I have enjoyed putting the theory of the programme modules into physical practice on shop floor. My team members have been supportive when I have been completing activities with them in order to develop myself, however some of these activities have resulted in improvements of their performance also, which is what the programme is designed to do.

I enjoy using the 'fuse' learning programme, due to it breaks down what you are expected to do before your meeting and what you will complete in the meeting, this I feel makes the workload manageable each month. The only issue I have found is the amount of work expected isn't realistic to complete within work hours, this is due to the short staffing issue we have and therefore I have completed most of the programme in my own time at home.

My manager has been supportive within my programme, asking how I am getting on and sitting down to review my progress and complete the skill endorsements with me. However, I would say other than my manager the rest of the store aren't really aware of who are on apprenticeships and where they are up to.

My trainer Chris has been consistent throughout my programme, he is the only trainer I have had which I think is very valuable as I woudln't have developed or enjoyed the programme as much if the trainer was always different. He always ensures I never miss a visit even if we have to rearange due to shift changes, I can't thank him enough.

This has been essential for me as I wouldn't have the role I do now without it. I have developed from a customer advisor to a team leader whilst being on the programme, and I only had the confidence I had to apply for the job due to the skills and knowledge I had developed.

Although there are not specific clubs everyone in the store gets along and there a multiple opportunities to socalise with team members outside of work, including going out for meals. There is also a fantisy football league for the store although I am not part of it I am aware it exists.

Yes

I feel B&Q is a happy inclusive place to work, team members are close and also talk to people on other departments rather than it being segregated. Everyone is a valued member of the team and each person brings a different quality, there is also opportunities for people to progress through B&Q if they choose to do so, and it is also ok if they choose not to.

The best thing you can be is honest, B&Q require flexible working times which vary from 5am to 11pm, although this is not expected all the time it does mean that if these shifts do not suit your lifestyle then maybe it is not for you. Also to ask questions in the interview such as what is expected of day to day activities.