Technology Apprentice

Jake

Information Technology

Level 3 Apprenticeship

Accenture

Why did you choose to join Accenture’s apprenticeship programme?

An apprenticeship was something I always aspired to do, and the Accenture programme is an outstanding Apprenticeship scheme with fantastic services which enticed me to undertake the programme with Accenture. The prospect of working with some of the world’s biggest companies/clients alongside most of the industry’s highly skilled consultants and technicians was an offer I couldn’t refuse. I was initially turned towards the Accenture Apprenticeship programme by the then Programme lead, Tracey Harrison. Tracey was aware I had just left University and encouraged me to applying and interview for the program, from this moment I knew that Accenture was the company I wanted to work for, and my first 6 months with the company have lived up to and exceeded each and every one of my expectations.

What skills have you learnt on the programme?

My time on the programme has been spent on a Defect Management role on a Performance Testing team for client Vodafone. In my 6 months with the team, I have learnt time management as I need to send timely updates for my team at key points throughout the day. This has also taught me to take responsibility for my actions, as if these tasks are not done, it impacts my team’s plans for the day. I have also developed my skills of presentations whilst with my team. I have to present information in daily conference calls we have at the start of each day, and I also have to send emails breaking down the team’s actions at the end of each day.

What is the most enjoyable aspect of the programme and your role at Accenture?

For me, the most important part is producing work that I know is very important to my team, so I take pride in producing this work as I know it will be of great help to the team. This is enjoyable because it makes me feel like an important part of the team, and it helps build relationships in the team. The most enjoyable part of the programme is meeting other likeminded apprentices, who have a passion for the same industry as you do.

What do you think it takes to be an Apprentice at Accenture?

Determination, dedication and ambition. Determination – the difference from new joiner training and the first few weeks is major. For the first few weeks, it is vitally important that you focus on the new role, and that you spend the needed time to get to grips with your new role as quick as possible. Dedication – as previously mentioned, being dedicated to your team is very important. Not only will you be able to get your work done on time, you’ll be able to build a trustworthy bond with your team as you complete your work on time. Ambition – setting goals is very important, whether this be with your team, during training or meetings with the career coach. Achieving this goals is a great feeling, rewards you with a sense of progression, and opens you up to receive some great feedback, very helpful during the apprenticeship!

Top tip for someone applying to the programme?

Present yourself in the most positive manner. First thing first, make sure that everything on your CV is correct, including dates, grades and referees. Spelling is very important here also. During your first interview, wear your smartest set of clothes, do your hair and have a shave for example, very cliché but very important! Before the interview, read around the company and the programme so that you can provide insightful views on the company and programme, and which part you are looking forward to the most.