Joe is a BA Business with Management and MSc in Economics graduate from Northumbria University. He secured a Retail Graduate Programme role at Lidl in London, through Bright Network. 
First, we’d love for you to tell us a bit about yourself.
“I studied Business and subsequently economics at university because of my interest in entrepreneurship and love for complex problems.
For the past year I have worked part time at Tesco as a Duty Manager which has certainly influenced my choice of graduate programme. I wanted to join an organisation where I can grow, learn and manage other people, so Lidl was an obvious next step.”
What motivated you to apply for your role?
“My love for management and the contents of the job. The programme is rotational which I believe is key at the beginning of your career.
Doing this sort of programme will allow me to explore different parts of the business and gain experience in new areas.”
What was the application process like?
“I found the application process very smooth. It started with an online assessment that was challenging but fair. I would recommend future applicants to practice these every day to prepare.
There was then an online video interview for which practice is also key. Once I had passed both stages, I was invited to an assessment centre where I was made to feel welcome and comfortable, which helped and motivated me during the day.”
How did Bright Network help you secure your role?
“Bright Network helped me by providing a clear and simple interface that I used regularly to search for roles. I found having the deadline tracker especially useful for keeping on top of all the application deadlines.”
What have you learned from going through the application process?
“I have learned that dedication and trusting the process is key. Sometimes it can be hard, especially after receiving a rejection email. But once you find the right company with a scheme that you think you'll love, learn as much about the organisation, practice your interview answers and just be yourself!”
What are your tips for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
“My tips would be to stay dedicated and constantly check Bright Network or LinkedIn.
Practice online tests as much as possible when you have time and practice speaking to a camera for the video interview, which also helps to prepare for a face-to-face interview.”
Tell us about the future. What’s next?
“I'm really looking forward to getting started with Lidl. As it’s a rotational scheme there’s going to be so much to learn and so many people to meet! It's going to be hard work, but I can't wait to begin.”
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