Is Britt Kemmink at her place within bol?
Behind the screens relay blogs with starters and interns
In these ‘relay blogs,’ we dive into the world behind interns and startups. Who are these bol.com’ers and what do they think of bol.com as an employer? Are expectations being fulfilled? And can they grow and develop while being a part of the team?
Britt Kemmink is 20 years old and studying Human Resource Management. She is an intern at bol.com in the People& department (HRM) and is responsible for campus/students’ events. We spoke with her about her role as an intern.
Being an intern at bol.com
”I am really in my element at bol.com. One of the biggest reasons for this is the team I’m in. It is a team that is supportive, approachable and trustworthy, which has had a big impact on my overall experience. This environment has given me the confidence to face challenges, but also the assurance that I can ask my colleagues and my supervisor for help and guidance when I needed it. This is exactly what I value in a team. Building trust within the team encourages me to take on new challenging tasks. For example, I lead regular meetings individually with external English partners. This was very scary for me at the beginning, but as result my English had improved. For me, it is in these moments that I really learn and grow as a professional.”
”Bol.com is a professional employer. On the first day, when all the interns arrived, we had a kickoff where we were provided with laptops and a backpack. We got a presentation from the CEO, which included an introduction to the company culture. In addition, there is a diverse range of food in the canteen and fresh fruit. Throughout the five months I worked as an intern, this level of professionalism stayed consistent. Despite the fact that bol.com is a large organization, it still succeeds in creating a culture that removes the feeling that you are just a small part of a big company. All colleagues greet each other warmly and know you by name, and what I also just mentioned is that everyone is willing to help out. Before the internship, I was afraid that I would become a ‘number’, but I am happy to say that this is not the case. As an intern, I am a valued member.”
”The work environment is also incredibly relaxing and super chill with well-designed workstations. There is room for everyone and for every wish. You want to concentrate, we have a room in full silence. Meeting with the team, choose from various themed meeting rooms”
Growing as an intern
”I had daily check-ins or with my supervisor. During these sessions, I always had the opportunity to discuss problems or ask questions. Also, my supervisor was easily accessible through Teams or Whatsapp and always provided quick feedback. This level of involvement at bol.com was nice. Although daily check-ins were not required, I definitely did appreciate it. It made sure extra support was available when needed.”
”Truly felt like a valued member of the team.”
”I had experienced personal and professional growth during my internship. Some examples are: I have improved my skill at keeping in line with both internal and external stakeholders . My communication skills have been sharpened and I have become more adept at approaching universities, colleges and associations. At first, I found it scary to approach them and often wondered if I acted in the correct way. But I have found my way. Besides, I was able to develop my critical thinking and entrepreneurial skills. For example, I learned how to critically evaluate and defend decisions supported by research and became capable of presenting concrete arguments supported by research.”