The joys of networking

When I was carrying out the extensive graduate job search during my final year of university at the beginning of 2011, I was looking for three things: the opportunity for change, the chance to be creative, and most importantly, a challenge...

After just five months into the Capgemini Business Technology Consulting graduate programme, I am certain that I have made the right choice in choosing Capgemini. There is the aspect of change with regards to the number of roles and projects available, there is the chance to be creative by exploring ways to improve business processes and you are constantly able to challenge yourself to reach your best potential by gaining valuable experience expanding your skill set. These, combined with the presence of a large graduate community, mean that there is never a dull day! 

Although I have not been at the company for long, I’ve been able to take part in a number of events in addition to my current role. Importantly learning and development not only occurs on your current project at Capgemini but I have also found that volunteering for extra events as part of the graduate scheme is where you learn more, expand your network and are able to tell others what you’ve learnt elsewhere. It really is up to you how often you grab opportunities to gain knowledge, make contacts, give back to others and drive your career.

Let me tell you about two events with students: an open day at City University, and an evening with members of the British Computer Society (BCS) at our Holborn office. At City University, a colleague and I spoke to students who were looking to start courses, whereas with the BCS I was talking to small groups of students who were in their final year and looking for companies to apply to. I hope that by being able to give them an insight into my own positive university experience, application process and enjoyable working life so far with Capgemini, they can make informed decisions and realise the benefits of working in the fast-paced world of IT.

Perhaps the most rewarding event to date was a Raleigh International charity weekend in Milton Keynes which we were given the option to volunteer for. For more than six years, the Capgemini Business Technology Consulting graduate programme has partnered with Raleigh International to rejuvenate numerous community spaces around the UK. Not only was it a fantastic networking opportunity for graduates and a chance to improve leadership skills, but we were also able to give back to the community and make a real difference. The project work included painting and decorating an office, the makeover of an art room and even the construction of an outside pizza oven.

This is just a brief overview of some of the events which I have been fortunate enough to take part in during my time so far with Capgemini. You are in control of your career and it’s up to you to identify the training, events, roles and people that will help you to achieve what you want. This year I look forward to further pushing my capabilities and developing skills to apply to the future.

Happy New Year, wishing you all a great 2012!

 Raleigh International weekend in Milton Keynes