METRO is a leading international wholesaler. 24 million METRO customers worldwide buy food and non-food goods there. METRO's customers are independent entrepreneurs or small kiosks who either shop in one of the large markets, pick up goods ordered online there or have them delivered. The wholesaler METRO is active in 36 countries and employs more than 150,000 people worldwide.
METRO offers the METRO Potentials program for young managers. Just like the company, this is a very international program for young graduates who find trading exciting. Interested graduates can apply for the program in Germany until mid-May.
We spoke to Rokya Mamou to get some valuable tips. She started her career at METRO last year as METRO Potential.
Rokya, before we pester you for tips on the assessment center, an important question in advance: Why a trainee program at METRO?
Rokya: I had dealt intensively with trading during my studies and had already gained practical experience with competitors. At METRO, it wasn't just the internationality that made the difference, but especially the structure of the trainee program and the corporate culture. It's important to me to learn a lot and challenge myself. I'm ambitious. And through a trainee program you can understand the entire mechanism of trade, from delivery logistics to marketing and advertising. More overview is not possible.
What makes the METRO Potential program so special?
You move through different departments – internationally. The different phases are all very intense. In addition, each of us is assigned a mentor. The special thing is that everyone comes from the management of the country in which you are starting. This means you have someone who will support you right from the start, advise you and can explain a few things to you. And someone who will plan your career with you. The program is perfect for those who have an idea of what they want – and also know that they want to lead.
How did you ultimately become a METRO potential? What did you have to do beforehand?
Rokya: I applied to France – through LinkeIn. This is where I studied, this is where I come from. First I was invited to a national assessment center, then to the international assessment center that took place in Warsaw that year. That was of course exciting! You arrive, get to know your colleagues and have to get together with new people in the shortest possible time so that tasks can be solved together. The whole thing is watched by a jury. So you have to fight with the others on the team, even if you ultimately want to get one of the coveted places alone. What really impressed me: it wasn't a competition like you might imagine. It's really a team competition with a lot of fun. And you learn a lot: about yourself, about others – but above all about the company. Because the jury members are all from METRO. How they treat you, what they value...that really convinced me.
What tips would you give to students who make it to the assessment center?
Rokya: Always be curious! When solving tasks, think customer-oriented. And above all: always be yourself. Because authenticity is the be-all and end-all - the jury quickly notices when people are pretending... and the teams with whom you solve tasks notice this too. What also certainly helps: Don't be embarrassed - because quick-wittedness will help you make progress even in difficult situations when you sometimes get stuck! And at the end: Don't let yourself be put under too much pressure, because it's often important to be thorough, not necessarily fast!
Do you want to apply to start this September?
Let's go! https://www.metro-potentials.com/
About the METRO Potentials program:
METRO is one of the largest trading companies in the world. Below you will find the entry requirements for the METRO Potentials program:
- Recently acquired master's degree from a university, business school or hotel management school
- Professional experience is not required, but may be a maximum of 2 to 3 years
- International mobility
- Strong leadership potential
- Excellent oral and written English skills
- Independent and ambitious
- Strong communication skills
