National Apprenticeship Week 2018: Jake

It's National Apprenticeship Week and we are talking to the employees who came through an apprenticeship scheme at EverythingBranded. First we asked Jake, one of our UK Account Managers, about his experience as an apprentice. Jake took part in the Business Admin Level 2 apprenticeship from June 2016 to June 2017.  

What made you choose to take part in an apprenticeship?

I believe apprenticeships are the way forward in the working world. I knew I could learn a new skill I had never learnt before whilst earning a decent wage on the side. Also, I knew with apprenticeships I wouldn’t be left alone to get on with the job, I would have support and help when needed. I chose to take part in an apprenticeship as I feel at the time it was an easier route into the world of work but at the same time you have more of a guarantee of getting a full-time job at the end of the course and a qualification specific to the career you are choosing.

Why did you choose to do your apprenticeship at EverythingBranded?

I chose to do my apprenticeship at EverythingBranded because of the atmosphere around the company when I originally started. It was a lively business, thriving with staff members that wanted to do well for the company and this is exactly what I wanted to do with my future role in the business. After the interview I had with Paul, the owner, he had given me an insight into the business and its future and I wanted to be part of that.

What did you enjoy most about your apprenticeship?

I enjoyed the progression of my apprenticeship, the development meant that when I completed this I was able to be a full-time account manager for the business and have my own customers to manage. Also, I really enjoyed going out to meet with our suppliers and other business trips.

Were you given a lot of support and guidance during your apprenticeship?

I was given a lot of guidance during my apprenticeship as my job role was to support a member of the sales team throughout their day. Whilst doing this I was able to find out how to assist customers with their needs. I was always checked up on weekly to make sure I was doing well in the course and liking the role I was in. With constant support from my rep and the rest of the team I was able to complete the course with no problems.

What advice would you give to someone who is interested in taking the path of an apprenticeship?

I would say that taking part in apprenticeships is the way to go in the future, if you are fresh out of college and school, this is a way to continue learning whilst in the job sector you want to go into. With apprenticeships, you are given the best support to make sure you pass the course you are placed on.  

Don't Just Take Our Word for It!

Jake's successful completion of his apprenticeship training is reflected in the amazing reviews he receives from our customers: "Jake's been my account manager for a number of years and is brilliant. Spot on with delivery times, very quick to respond and makes the whole process of ordering promo items a piece of cake. Thanks Jake and all the team for your hard work and continued level of top-notch service! I wouldn't think of going anywhere else."