Get into practice: Trainee programs as a way to start your career are becoming increasingly popular with graduates and companies. But what actually distinguishes a trainee from an intern, what requirements are necessary and what makes good trainee training? There are facts and practical tips here!
The term trainee program refers to a type of special training for university graduates that prepares them for permanent employment. As a rule, a trainee program lasts at least one year and is specifically designed to be taken on, it is aimed at graduates, responsibility is given, intensive training is provided and it pays better than an internship. However, trainee programs often differ significantly from company to company, as there are no official specifications regarding duration, content or payment. If you want to start your career as a trainee, you should be clear about what you want so that your first step on the career ladder is a complete success!
Find the right trainee program
Anyone who completes a trainee program wants to make the leap into a permanent position. It is therefore important to find out in advance the conditions under which trainee programs are offered and what the chances of being taken on look like. There are basically three different types of trainee programs:
The “classic” trainee program:
The trainees work in different departments of a company for a certain period of time and gain a holistic insight into the processes. It is only at the end of the trainee training that the target position becomes clear. The advantage of this type of program is that the trainee gets a good overall overview of the company. This will help him later in his desired management position to keep an eye on the effects of his decisions beyond the confines of his department.
Specialist trainee:
The trainee is specifically deployed in one area and prepared for their future position. Specialist trainees are often offered by smaller companies and startups. It should be clarified right from the start whether there are real chances of being taken on or whether, for financial reasons, more trainees are being employed than can ultimately be hired as permanent employees.
Trainee studies:
In rare cases, a combination of trainee and course of study is offered, in which practical phases are completed during the lecture-free period, similar to a dual course of study. The advantage: You can gain valuable practical experience and establish relationships in the working world while you are still studying. The catch: The trainee course is only offered by very few companies.
What exactly makes a good program depends on your own expectations. A large company usually attracts diversity, pleasant pay and a steep career curve. But even with small startups you can learn a lot, take on responsibility early on and help shape the spirit of a young, dynamic company. When it comes to quality, there is no one-size-fits-all recipe - it is important to set your own priorities, compare job advertisements and, if necessary, call the company before applying. In any case, a trainee program looks good on your CV - even if it is of course not helpful for you personally if you get the feeling that you are not learning anything and are only doing assembly line work as a "better intern".
Starting your career as a trainee – exactly your thing?
There are various options available to those who are nearing the end of their studies. As a rule, a permanent position is sought immediately after graduation - a trainee program is often a first step towards a successful start in practice. The requirements differ depending on the department, but across all industries there are commonalities that every trainee should have - from a technical perspective, a completed degree, initial practical experience through internships or training, often foreign language skills and methodological skills are part of it, while the soft skills include a lot of initiative Motivation, analytical thinking, sense of responsibility, flexibility, creativity and openness are at the forefront. It is particularly important for HR managers that applicants are team players and fit well into the work environment, which often makes a small difference in job interviews.
Conclusion
A trainee program is a good way to gain a foothold in a company and is now viewed as in-depth training. It is important to always coordinate your expectations with the company and think in advance about what exactly your personal goal is and what you want to have in hand after completing the trainee program. More information about trainee programs with salary comparisons, experience reports and tips on the subject of contracts can be found at https://www.trainee-gefluester.de/trainee.
Get into practice: Trainee programs as a way to start your career are becoming increasingly popular with graduates and companies. But what actually distinguishes a trainee from an intern, what requirements are necessary and what makes good trainee training? There are facts and practical tips here!
