Business Assistant Review

I work in the SMB space, assisting my manager with organising events and the administration that comes along with this. I interact with Microsoft partners on a daily basis, as well as colleagues within my team and in the office. When attending events I also demo some Office 365 features so occasionally I also interact with customers. My responsibilities include organising SMB events and liaising with partners involved.

I have developed massively in regards to my communication and interaction skills. I am also gaining basic business knowledge by working towards my Business and Administration SVQ 3 qualification. While working in Microsoft, I have gained practical technical skills which I will need throughout my working life, as well as being able to take Microsoft exams for free.

I thoroughly enjoy the programme as everyone in Microsoft is approachable and helpful. There is no problem when asking for help as everyone is aware that I am here to learn, which makes working enjoyable. Microsoft's apprenticeship programme has exceeded my expectations as I didn't expect to have as much responsibility and I am treated as an adult which makes me want to prove myself more!

I feel the apprenticeship programme is effective as you are given proper work which allows you to feel that you are achieving something. Every piece of work I complete is acknowledged, and my manager always praises me for good work which boosts my morale. Partners are also very appreciative of help and opportunities.

My programme is very well organised as there are achievable targets set which I must meet. I can always contact my assessor if there is a problem and he gives me feedback and guidance when needed. I also have weekly catch-ups with my manager which means I am always aware of what I need to do.

I have regular visits from my training provider so I am always on track with my qualification. I am also given constructive feedback on my work. The e-track portal allows for easy access to course work and allows you to track your progress.

In Microsoft there are a number of people that can help with career guidance and progression. My manager supports me with my daily tasks and advises me on paths I can take, and HR makes me aware of extra training I can take and the opportunities that are available to me. If I ever had a problem there are a number of people I could talk to, including my manager and my HR contact.

My salary exceeds my costs, which motivates me to do well and allows me to have no financial worries.

Microsoft encourages you to take up volunteering and allows you volunteering days. I have also been allowed to attend a number of company events which have been a great experience!

Yes

It is a great experience that you wouldn't get in any other company. You are treated as an adult and given responsibilities and results to work towards. Microsoft's culture is so modern, and being young coming in to the company I didn't feel out of place at all!

Show initiative and ambition. Microsoft want somebody with ambition and someone who has an interest in technology, so emphasise this in your interview! Be enthusiastic, as in Microsoft you are given multiple opportunities that you won't want to miss out on!