Placement Experience: Management Trainee at Sabiib Somali Restaurant - MD Nazim Uddin

What motivated you to pursue an optional placement year?

The placement year provided a special chance for me to broaden my global work experience, build my professional network, and hone my leadership abilities in a multicultural workplace. I wanted to get practical experience working with international teams and handling challenging communication situations. My comprehension of industrial dynamics would improve as a result of this experience, and I would be more prepared for senior leadership positions in international business communication.

Furthermore, the placement year supported my long-term professional objectives by offering a forum for ongoing education, professional advancement, and personal improvement. 

How many placement applications did you make? 

It took a planned and methodical approach to apply for placement opportunities. I began by looking for businesses that fit with my leadership and international business communication career goals. I made a customised CV and cover letter that highlighted my training, work history, and important abilities including project management, leadership, and cross-cultural communication.

I applied to perhaps 15 to 20 placement positions in a variety of areas, with an emphasis on businesses with a significant global footprint. I kept a spreadsheet with application deadlines, firm names, job descriptions, and application statuses in order to stay organized. This made it easier for me to properly prepare for interviews and handle follow-ups.

Did you get support with your applications?

I sought help from the University Career Services where I went to networking events, CV seminars, and practice interviews. I also used LinkedIn to interact with business executives and alumni for recommendations and guidance. Recruiters' comments following my initial applications enabled me to improve my strategy. My ability to emphasize my talents and better customize applications was enhanced by this iterative approach, which eventually resulted in placement offers that matched my career goals. 

What were your main concerns about taking a placement year?

My main concerns about taking a placement year was the potential delay in completing my master’s degree. I was concerned that taking a break from my academics might cause me to lose my academic drive. Recognizing that practical employment would improve my academic comprehension and make me more competitive in the job market after graduation, I reframed the placement year as an extension of my learning experience in order to address this.

Another uncertainty was finding a suitable placement that aligned with my career goals in international business communication. I knew competition could be intense, so I dedicated time to refining my CV and cover letters, practiced interview techniques, and applied to a diverse range of companies. Seeking guidance from career advisers and networking with industry professionals also helped reduce this concern.

Lastly, I was uncertain about adapting to a new professional environment, particularly in a different cultural or international context. My prior work experience had prepared me for such challenges, but I proactively researched company cultures and prepared for cross-cultural workplace scenarios. This boosted my confidence and adaptability.

Overall, addressing these concerns with thorough preparation, support from university resources, and a proactive mind-set helped me fully embrace the placement year opportunity.

What tips would you give to students about balancing placement applications with university studies?

Balancing placement applications with university studies requires effective time management and a strategic approach. Start by researching placements early and setting a realistic timeline for applications. Use a planner or digital calendar to track deadlines for both academic assignments and job applications. Prioritize quality over quantity by focusing on roles that align with your career goals and tailoring each application accordingly. Break the process into manageable steps, such as updating your CV, writing cover letters, and preparing for interviews.

Take advantage of university career services, workshops, and mock interviews to strengthen your applications. Stay consistent by dedicating specific weekly hours to job searches while keeping up with coursework. Finally, maintain a healthy balance by managing stress through breaks, exercise, and staying connected with supportive peers. This approach ensures steady progress on both fronts while minimizing burnout.

Any challenges have you faced during your placement, and how have you overcome them?

Adjusting to a new workplace environment  during my placement year required adaptability, cultural awareness, and proactive learning. Initially, I familiarized myself with the restaurant’s operations, team structure, and customer service expectations by observing daily routines and asking questions. My supervisors provided hands-on training, explaining key processes like inventory management, staff scheduling, and customer engagement, which helped me understand my responsibilities more clearly.

Building strong relationships with colleagues was crucial. I practiced open communication, actively listened to feedback, and showed a willingness to learn from more experienced team members. Regular team meetings allowed me to share ideas and understand business goals better.

Cultural adaptation was another key aspect, as the restaurant operated in a culturally rich environment. I researched Somali traditions and cuisine beforehand, which helped me connect better with both customers and staff. Additionally, I used online management resources and leadership development courses to strengthen my managerial skills. These efforts helped me grow both professionally and personally during my placement year.

What has been the most rewarding part of your placement so far?

Being responsible for overseeing daily operations, managing staff, and ensuring customer satisfaction has allowed me to apply the theoretical concepts I learned during my studies in business communication and leadership.

One particularly rewarding experience was successfully leading a team during a particularly busy service. By organizing tasks efficiently, communicating clearly with the team, and maintaining a calm demeanour under pressure, I was able to help ensure a smooth operation. The positive feedback from both customers and colleagues reinforced my confidence in my leadership abilities.

Has your placement experience influenced your perspective on your chosen career path or field of study?

It significantly influenced my perspective on my career path and field of study. Initially, I pursued my studies in Business Communication for International Leadership with a focus on corporate roles, but the hands-on experience in the restaurant industry has expanded my view of leadership and management.

Working in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment has shown me the importance of adaptability, effective team management, and cultural sensitivity—skills that are essential in any leadership role. I’ve realized that leadership is not just about directing others but also about fostering a supportive, collaborative team dynamic. 

Ultimately, this placement has confirmed that my career goals lie in leadership roles that involve managing diverse teams, and it has broadened my understanding of how these skills can be applied across various industries, not just in corporate settings.

Would you recommend the placement year to other students?

I would definitely recommend the placement program to other students. The experience of applying classroom knowledge in a real-world setting is invaluable and significantly enhances both personal and professional growth. My advice to other students would be:

Start Early: Begin researching placement opportunities early, and apply to multiple roles to increase your chances of securing a position that aligns with your interests and career goals.

Be Open-Minded: Even if your placement doesn’t exactly match your original career plans, stay open to the skills and experiences it can provide. You might discover new interests or career paths you hadn’t considered.

Take Initiative: Don’t wait for tasks to come to you. Proactively seek out opportunities to learn, improve processes, or help your team. This will show your commitment and willingness to grow.

Stay Organized: Balancing a placement with university studies can be challenging. Create a schedule and prioritize tasks to manage your time effectively.

Seek Feedback: Regularly ask for feedback from supervisors and colleagues. Constructive criticism will help you improve and develop your skills.

Network: Use your placement to connect with professionals in your field. These connections can open doors for future career opportunities.

Reflect and Learn: Take time to reflect on your experiences, both the challenges and successes. This will help you apply the lessons learned to future roles.

Overall, a placement year is a fantastic opportunity to build your career and gain real-world experience, so I highly recommend taking full advantage of it