Trainee or direct entry? Why the programme is worthwhile

The transition from studying to working can be challenging. Theory and practice are two different worlds and you often lack the experience to hit the ground running. This is exactly where trainee programmes come in. They offer graduates a structured familiarisation with companies, valuable insights into different areas and a strong foundation for the future.

Why a trainee programme?

A trainee programme is more than just a job - it's an investment in your development. Here are some of the benefits:

Learning and working at the same time: you're not just thrown in at the deep end, but go through different stations in the company. This gives you a better understanding of the processes and allows you to find out where your strengths lie.

Rapid responsibility: Many trainee programmes focus on ‘learning by doing’. This means you are quickly given your own projects and can prove yourself.

Build up a network: You work with different teams and departments. This helps you to make contacts and open doors for your career.

Career booster: A trainee programme is often the direct route to a permanent position. Many companies take on their trainees in positions of responsibility after the programme.

Challenges: What you should know

Trainee programmes are demanding. They require a lot of commitment and flexibility. Here are a few things you should bear in mind:

Learning curve: You will have to learn a lot of new things in a short space of time. This can be stressful, but is worth it in the long term.

Switching between departments: You're not stuck in one role, but change regularly. This is exciting, but can also be stressful if you constantly have to adapt to new teams and tasks.

Salary: Trainees often earn less than direct entrants. In return, you gain valuable experience that pays off later.

How to make a convincing application

The competition is fierce, so you should prepare yourself well. Here are a few tips:

Show why you want a trainee programme: Explain in your cover letter why a trainee programme is the right path for you and what you hope to gain from it.

Emphasise your willingness to learn: Companies are looking for motivated young talents who are curious and want to develop themselves further.

Score points with practical experience: Internships, working student jobs or voluntary work are a plus. They show that you have already familiarised yourself with the world of work.

Conclusion

A trainee programme is the ideal opportunity to make a targeted start to your career after graduation. It combines practical learning with valuable experience and provides a solid foundation for your career. Even if the requirements are high, the commitment is worth it - you get to know different areas, make important contacts and have a good chance of a long-term position in the company.

Seize your opportunity now

If you are looking for a trainee programme, take a look at talendo.ch. There you will find exciting programmes in various sectors.