Online Trading Manager Review

Leading a team of 80 colleagues to run a fast-paced online shopping operation. I oversee planning to ensure the correct resources are available to fulfil customer demand, and manage performance. I also work as part of the wider store team to fulfil the role of Duty Manager and run the store in the GSM's absence.

I have definitely improved upon my communication and collaboration skills as I have just completed a group project in which I was working with 4 others to complete an assignment. It was a really positive experience and encouraged me to communicate clearly as well as respecting others views and opinions.

I love the programme! I enjoyed the first week at University and being back in a classroom and met some great like minded others, but equally enjoyed the aspects of lone working and working individually to meet deadlines etc. The content is stimulating and the support given by MMU staff is amazing.

So far so good. My only criticism would be that in Week 1 there was a lot to get through, because we had our first module to cover but also the elements of induction etc. It may have been beneficial to attend University 5 days that week instead of 4 so we could have had induction on day 1 and then 4 days of learning.

In all honesty, my employer/Line Manager encourage applying for Apprenticeship programmes but then don't necessarily provide enough support. It is difficult in a retail setting to take time out of the day to complete coursework etc, however if you want to do it don't let that put you off. I'd say the level of support you get is very dependent on the individual.

Excellent support from training provider. There are all kinds of resources at your disposal, whether that is through your Skills coach, lecturers, students union, online forums etc. The regular review meetings are really good at keeping you on track and motivating you - also good to have some positive reinforcement from someone who actually understands the workload.

It's really good to use courses such as this as a time to reflect on current performance and behaviours etc. It helps to put things in perspective and identify your own opportunities for development, as well as what those around you may need to succeed in their role. As well as that it provides a solid foundation of knowledge that you can build upon with real experiences.

Some stores have sports and social clubs etc but as a Manager I feel like I spend more than enough time at work or doing work related tasks so they have never really interested me much. There are not necessarily professional networking events however there are online courses etc than you can enrol in and network that way.

Yes

Overall it's a great place to work with a great culture and many opportunities for progression should you wish to do so. There are many ways in which you can develop yourself, apprenticeships being one of them. There are some great benefits to working for ASDA, especially at colleague level.

Be yourself! Ask for support if needed. Always be honest. Ask about the worst parts of the job - if you can handle it at it's worst it's definitely worth it to experience it as it's best! Be pro-active and open minded. Get to know the people around you and build your own network.