Ten interns will work in areas such as robotic processes, software development and digital sales over the next one year
Canada, Spain, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Germany and Bulgaria – with education from all these countries come the ten interns who will participate in this year’s ninth edition of Yettel’s internship program – Hub by Yettel. They were selected among nearly 1,200 applications and after several stages of selection.
Over the next one year, the youth will gain experience in areas such as robotic processes, big data analysis, software development, digital sales, commerce, product portfolio and finance.
Apart from being from different countries, the new batch of telecom interns also has an interesting path behind them. For some of the participants, the internship is an opportunity to try a completely new field. Thus, girls graduating from Psychology will enter the field of digital sales and product portfolio for the first time, and a girl who studied civil engineering and taught programming to children will make a professional turn to customer experience strategies.
For another participant, the internship is not the first encounter with Yettel, having twice participated in the telecom’s other program for young talents – Second Shift. Among the trainees there are also future engineers and specialists in the field of computer science, management and technology.
As a first step, they will all go through an onboarding program that aims to introduce them to the telecommunications business and familiarize them with the Yettel structure and culture. In parallel, the young talents will start working on their first practical tasks. Throughout the internship period, they will have a mentor by their side who will guide and help them.
The Hub by Yettel program places interns in a real business environment and gives them hands-on experience and skills. At the same time, the duration of one year allows young people to enter fully into the specifics of the business, to go through different situations and tasks and gain confidence.
Another advantage is that the positions that the telco opens for applications are selected in departments that have a real need for new talent. This enables a large part of the trainees to stay permanently with the company. Since the launch of Hub by Yettel in 2016. So far, 85% of the program participants continue their development at Yettel to this day.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Dr. Laura Stevens, Expert in Educational Programs for Internships
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Stevens! Thank you for joining us today to discuss Yettel’s impressive internship program, Hub by Yettel, which has attracted a diverse group of talented individuals. To start, could you share your thoughts on the significance of such international internship programs?
Dr. Stevens: Thank you for having me! International internship programs like Hub by Yettel are incredibly important because they foster diversity and innovation. By bringing together interns from countries like Canada, Spain, the UK, and beyond, the program creates a melting pot of ideas and perspectives. This cross-cultural collaboration not only enriches the interns’ experiences but also benefits the hosting organization by infusing it with fresh viewpoints and approaches.
Editor: Absolutely! This year, Yettel selected ten interns from nearly 1,200 applications, which is quite an achievement. What do you think this high level of interest says about the current landscape for young professionals?
Dr. Stevens: The overwhelming number of applications indicates that young professionals are eager for hands-on experiences that will enhance their employability. It reflects a broader trend of a competitive job market, where practical experience becomes increasingly valuable. Internships, especially in cutting-edge fields like software development and big data analysis, provide crucial opportunities for skill development and networking, making them highly sought after.
Editor: Speaking of skill development, the interns will be gaining experience in various areas, including robotic processes and digital sales. From your perspective, how essential are these skills in today’s job market?
Dr. Stevens: Skills in technology and digital marketing are not just valuable; they are essential. As industries rapidly shift towards automation and data-driven decision-making, proficiency in robotic processes and big data becomes a differentiating factor for job seekers. Additionally, roles in digital sales are increasingly critical as businesses adapt to e-commerce and digital engagement strategies. This program equips interns with relevant skills that align with industry needs.
Editor: It’s interesting to note that some interns are venturing into fields outside of their studies, such as psychology graduates moving into digital sales. How significant is this type of career transition for internship programs?
Dr. Stevens: Career transitions can be incredibly powerful! They allow individuals to leverage their existing knowledge while acquiring new skills, which leads to more versatile professionals. For example, a psychology graduate may bring valuable insights into consumer behavior that can enhance digital sales strategies. Internship programs that facilitate such transitions encourage innovation and adaptability, which are crucial traits in today’s dynamic job market.
Editor: That’s a great point! Can you elaborate on the role of mentorship within programs like Hub by Yettel and its impact on the interns’ journey?
Dr. Stevens: Mentorship is a cornerstone of any successful internship program. It provides interns with guidance, support, and invaluable feedback as they navigate new challenges. A mentor can play a crucial role in helping interns identify their strengths, set career goals, and build confidence in their abilities. This relationship not only enhances the interns’ overall experience but also fosters a culture of growth and learning within the organization.
Editor: what advice would you give to organizations looking to implement or improve their own internship programs?
Dr. Stevens: I would advise organizations to focus on creating a structured program that emphasizes both skill development and mentorship. It’s vital to offer interns real responsibilities and projects that contribute to the company, rather than mere administrative tasks. Regular feedback and open communication can significantly enhance the learning experience. Lastly, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment allows for richer exchange of ideas and experiences, which ultimately benefits everyone involved.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Stevens, for your insights! It’s clear that programs like Hub by Yettel are paving the way for a new generation of professionals equipped to succeed in an ever-evolving job market.
Dr. Stevens: Thank you for having me, and for shining a light on such an important initiative!