Project Manager Review

I work as a Project Manager. So we are focused on the transition stage of taking a project from the design stage to when it actually goes live. I've started on my first project work and this includes creating a statement of work, which details the project and delivery of it. I also have done assessments of the effort needed for projects each month which is known as the triage. Other activities have included working on a sharepoint site for the whole PM team.

I have learnt the importance of communication in a large organisation like HSBC. Not only is communication vital and important, it also needs to communicated in a manner that is concise and easy to understand. Usually making it as short as possible so people don't have to read a lot. I've also built on my team working skills and the importance of depending on each other to complete a common goal.

It has been an exciting opportunity and I am learning new skills and information each day. It's allowing me to build a career and my skills as a professional. The course itself has been well structured, interesting and it's clear that the business has an importance in developing the apprentices.

Very valued. Not only are the benefits of working for the business great, you feel valued when you complete a task or piece of work. It is not simply the X team worked on Project Y, the names of each individual is mentioned and what they are bringing to the business with it. Regular meetings and Apprentice days have only improved the feeling of being looked after by HSBC.

It is well structured, you have regular meetings with your manager in office days and you can also talk to a nominated work buddy and a study buddy - who is a previous apprentice. Every 2 weeks you have a day out of the office to work with the other apprentices on the NVQ side of the job. This includes giving presentations, lectures etc. You also have 12 week reviews between the NVQ side of things and your manager.

They are always avaliable and free, they respond quickly to emails and IM's, the office is situated in the building so any longer discussions or face to face meetings are easy to organise. They provide feedback on assignments and the meetings every 2 weeks allows for discussions of anything related to the NVQ.

Simliar to the NVQ side of the job, meetings are regular and the fact that you not only have meetings with your manager but also your work buddy allows for 2 different perspectives. There are also other apprentices that you are introduced to so you can ask for their help and support. Any complaints or problems are easy to raise and your manager will be there to support and help.

Compared to most other apprenticeships the HSBC salary is very fair. It is above average and allows for me to travel on the train each day and still have a sizeable amount left at the end of each month. Including my pension scheme I have set up with the business. Food each day is also a non-issue as the shops are very close to office and most days I only spend around £5.

A lot of opportunities. Whether this is local sports with HSBC, including the football league or tennis, there are regular events to socialise with work collegues and get to know them better.

Yes

Because the benefits are excellent, the environment is unlike other offices I have worked in beofre. It is relaxed, they care about how you feel and are always ready to support you. The salary is very attractive and the opportunities for promotion and advance is very much avaliable. Also you get to know other apprentices at the same time so there is always someone who is experiencing the same thoughts and feelings as you.

Be calm and make sure you do your research. Also be yourself, remember that the company is looking for an individual and they want your personality to shine through.