A behind-the-scenes look at life as a working student

What is it actually like to work as a student trainee at the d.u.h.Group?
We interviewed one of our student trainees, who started out in the sales department and now specialises in simulation and development.
In this article, he talks about how he got started, his responsibilities – and why his perspective on the world of work is completely different today.

Who are you and how did you come to join the d.u.h.Group?
My name is Finn Scheiber and I’m studying economics at Bielefeld University. I first heard about the d.u.h.Group through an email from one of my lecturers. I hadn’t actually planned to actively look for a job – but the role really appealed to me straight away. I didn’t just want any old part-time job, but something meaningful where I could play an active role in shaping things. I used to run my own start-up and have been looking ever since for environments that allow for personal responsibility and development. During my discussions with the d.u.h.Group, it felt like a perfect fit straight away.

What exactly do you do at the d.u.h.Group?
My day-to-day work is very dynamic and involves a variety of industries, clients and projects. I work alongside the sales team – particularly Finn & Nicolas – and help with acquiring existing clients, researching contacts, arranging client meetings and, on occasion, joining in on discussions. In doing so, I’m involved in many processes and gain a broad insight into everything from strategy to practical implementation.

I find the work at d.u.h.Group GmbH absolutely fascinating because it allows me to gain insight into very different perspectives and learn a great deal about the products and solutions offered by a development service provider and digitalisation expert – and how these actually deliver added value to clients.

What do you particularly like about your job?
Without a doubt: the variety. The tasks are wide-ranging and I’m constantly learning from different colleagues across the company. It’s particularly exciting to follow the sales processes right through to the project stage and see the impact our solutions have on clients. And last but not least: the team spirit at the d.u.h.Group is relaxed and creates an easy-going atmosphere – that makes working here easier for me as a student.

How do you manage to balance your studies with your working student role?
Thanks to the flexible working hours, it works really well. During term time, I was able to organise my tasks flexibly around my university commitments. During the exam period, it was also no problem to take a complete two-week break, by mutual agreement.

How would you describe the team and the culture at the d.u.h.Group?
What I particularly like about our team is the diversity – we’re all very different, but that’s exactly what creates a really good dynamic and sparks creative ideas. Our team structure brings together different experiences, skills and perspectives. Everyone is helpful, open-minded and motivated. The corporate culture is solution-oriented and encourages initiative. I’ve always been able to put forward my ideas – and some of them have even been implemented straight away. That’s obviously a great experience and hugely motivating.

What have you learnt so far – both professionally and personally?
Professionally, I’ve learnt a great deal, especially as I don’t have a technical background. It was a challenge at first, but thanks to the team’s support, I was able to settle into day-to-day sales work quickly. On a personal level, I’ve learnt a lot about customer communication – how to conduct myself professionally and provide bespoke advice to customers.

Has your view of the world of work changed?
Yes, completely. I soon realised that things here don’t all follow a set formula – and that’s a good thing. It’s precisely the human element that gives rise to creative solutions, new ideas and innovative approaches. This openness surprised me – and inspired me.

I’ve come to realise just how big the gap between theory and practice really is – and that, ultimately, what matters is finding economically viable solutions for the client, not whether everything fits into a theoretical model.

Your advice for future applicants?
What I particularly value about the d.u.h.Group is the great freedom to shape things. There are – especially in sales – plenty of opportunities to get involved, put your own ideas into practice and take on responsibility. If that’s what you’re looking for, you’ve come to the right place.
The working environment at d.u.h. is geared more towards those who are keen to take the initiative and develop themselves. But you’re not left to your own devices – the team supports you and provides guidance where it’s needed.

And finally: which moments have stuck in your memory so far?
Definitely the trust that’s been placed in me – and the positive feedback. Realising that my work is appreciated just makes you feel really good.