Gemma McCluskey – Apprenticeship Interview

1. Which apprenticeship are you completing?

Level 4 Sales Executive.

2. Why did you enroll onto this apprenticeship?

I was excited to be offered the opportunity and to do something new which was completely relevant to my role. These opportunities do not tend to come around often so, I jumped at the chance. The prospect of also gaining an additional qualification was fantastic.

3. How are you benefitting from being on the apprenticeship?

Every topic that we cover on the apprenticeship gives me additional tools and techniques to build successful relationships with my clients and, internal stakeholders. It is also giving me valuable guidance and advice on how to increase my sales opportunities and pipeline which is positive for myself and my company.

4. How are you using the knowledge, skills and behaviours obtained through your apprenticeship in your current role?

I use many tools and techniques during my role on a day to day basis to help me with a variety of situations. Whether that be managing difficult conversations, increasing my sales pipeline and turning these into wins for the business, managing my own time and client portfolio and, to continue to understand the importance of clients and understanding their requirements and key drivers in order to build strong partnerships.

5. What has been your key achievement so far?

Completing every assignment which I have been set and succeeding beyond my expectations in each of these.

6. What is the best thing about your apprenticeship?

The Workshops and the support provided by the trainers and GI Group. These courses are run extremely well and are very valuable. There are engaging and I go away feeling I have learnt something new after each session.

7. How do you feel the apprenticeship will help with future career development?

The Apprenticeship has already supported me in my recent promotion to Senior Relationship Director. It has given me the confidence which I needed to believe in myself. It will continue to help me within my new role, and I will continue to learn to benefit from this Apprenticeship in the future.

8. What 1 piece of advice would you give someone considering enrolling onto an apprenticeship?

Schedule and keep time aside to complete all assignments and other requirements of the Apprenticeship. Do not leave anything until the last minute as you will fall behind and will not have the time to complete everything to the best of your ability.