Where to start? I was originally interviewed for the role as a Trainee Buyer, in a long selection process including multiple interview rounds over 3 months. I was aware that the role came with a good pay and a bit of prestige in the FMCG world and I had a healthy respect for the fast paste environment and the pressure that goes hand in hand with a buying role.
So when they offered me a trainee role in the packaging and design department in the end I was beyond happy - great pay in a creative role at a major supermarket seemed like the absolute jackpot.
The start salary wasn't as high as advertised for the buying trainees but it was still very decent for someone with no working experience in the UK.
I was very excited to start this job role but about 1 week in I couldn't help to ask myself why they had hired me. There was no training plan for a trainee? They did tell me in the interview that I would be the first intern in the packaging and design department but I didn't expect them to be completely unprepared. It took 2 more months of intern tasks and trying to find work where I could to come to terms with the fact that there was simply zero need for a trainee in that department.
I didn't want to give up on my job role which looked amazing on paper and I hold out for a year and a half before I moved on - before I had even finished the traineeship.
That is really unlike me, I would describe myself as a driven, hard working and focused person and if I start something I usually finish it.
That role really took a toll on my self confidence...a bore out can be just as bad as a burn out they say and I can confirm that.
I can just give you the advice to ask the right questions in an interview, even if you're desperate to find a job.
What does the training look like?
What are the expectations?
What job role is envisioned for you at the end of the traineeship?
Who is your direct guardian and therefore responsible for you?