Name: Hyrije Taipi

Placement Site: Rendall and Rittner Ltd

Placement title: Graduate Trainee

1. How did you hear about the opportunity? I was referred by a friend, who is an ex-EaGLE.
2. What were you doing before EaGLES programme? Before joining the EaGLES programme I was working at Selfridges for Kurt Geiger in the women’s shoe department. I also volunteered as an Albanian translator. I decided to move into the property market as I was initially interested in the industry while studying law at university. In particular, I enjoyed learning about land law. I had heard about leading residential managing agent Rendall & Rittner through a friend, who had started as a property manager. Learning about her day-to-day routine encouraged me to join the company over two months ago.
3. If any, what do you feel your barriers to work were prior to starting the EaGLEs programme? Prior to the EaGLEs programme I was underemployed. My biggest hurdle was a lack of networks that could help me into employment and knowledge such network would provide. ELBA has acted as a broker and has provided me with the opportunity to build a network by organising events where we visit corporations such as Allen and Overy.
4. In terms of the structure of the programme – employability workshops, a visit to Ashridge Business School and Pitman’s Training did you feel this was adequate training that prepared you for your placement? The EaGLES programme provides necessary and enjoyable training. Prior to the training, I felt extremely nervous starting my placement. Afterwards, I felt encouraged and prepared, this is because the training provides professional and personal development training.Pitman’s Business English for example, trained me on necessary skills, such as improving written communication which is essential to my current role.Ashridge Business School training was by far the most enjoyable experience, which is often only reserved for business men and women.The programme addresses challenges that may occur in the workplace such as dealing with management teams and how to manage your work load. I have been incorporating these lessons in my daily work routine.
5. How has your placement been so far? My placement with Rendall & Rittner has been very enjoyable. The programme has provided me with the opportunity to experience all of the departments and has allowed me to develop a rich understanding of the fundamental processes in property management. Initially, I felt overwhelmed as I have never worked within the property management industry. However, the staff at Rendall & Rittner were great and have been very supportive. I have already covered many training programmes including cultural awareness and there is so much potential with regards to training in the coming months.At present I am very comfortable in my role and am enjoying it. Every day is so varied and I love being involved in many aspects of the business from invoicing and customer services to even helping to design a uniform for one of the concierge teams.
6. Would you recommend this programme to another Barking and Dagenham borough resident such as yourself? I would highly recommend the programme. The people involved in the running and teaching have been very supportive.