Graduate interview: Anneke – Recruiter at Knauf Gips KG

What did you study at the University of Würzburg?

B.Sc. in Economics

What is your current role?

Recruiter at Knauf Gips KG in Iphofen

Which company/employer do you work for?

Knauf Gips KG

What are your responsibilities?

- Managing vacancies at Knauf Digital GmbH (everything from kick-off meetings with hiring managers, drafting job adverts, screening applications, to preparing for and conducting interviews)

- School partnerships (e.g. job application workshops in schools, career presentations in schools, school trips to Knauf)

How did you develop your career path during and after your studies?

Internships and part-time student roles in various HR departments (recruitment, employer branding, payroll, global HR) at different companies and across various sectors, as well as working as a student assistant at the Career Centre.

Did you make use of any specific university services to help with your career guidance (e.g. Career Centre, Alumni Office, mentoring programme, guest lectures, etc.)?

As I did an internship at the Career Centre as part of an ASQ programme and then continued working there as a student assistant, I became aware of the services offered by the Career Centre. I took part in courses such as ‘Understanding and Using Instagram ’.

How did you find out about the role you applied for? Is there a particular portal you would recommend to students in future?

I did an internship at Knauf in the Recruiting & Employer Branding department and was then taken on as a recruiter. One portal I can recommend is LinkedIn.

What exactly did your application process involve, and how long did it take from the first point of contact to receiving the offer?

For my internship: an online interview with my line manager (Head of Recruiting & Employer Branding) and another colleague (my internship supervisor). I received the offer quite quickly, about a week after the interview. For the full-time role, there was no further interview; just feedback sessions during the internship.

Which skills from your degree are helpful or essential for your current role?

- English language skills (e.g. for interviews in English or when speaking to international colleagues)

- Ability to express myself clearly

- A structured approach to setting priorities

How did you acquire additional skills (e.g. through workshops and seminars, work placements, part-time jobs, clubs, voluntary work, trainee programmes, further training, etc.)?

Internships and part-time student roles, Excel courses, courses run by the Career Centre, a semester abroad in Spain.

What advice would you give to students to help them prepare successfully for future job interviews?

- Definitely think of questions about the role/duties, the team, career development, etc.

- Gather information about the company and do your research

- Reflect on your own strengths and weaknesses (perhaps ask your parents and friends)

Do you have any general tips on career guidance and career planning?

- Gain insights into different sectors and industries through, for example, work placements and part-time student jobs, to find out what suits you and what you enjoy

- Start researching and applying early

What advice would you give to students who want to work in your sector or profession?

- Gain experience in the sector/field whilst you’re a student

- Attend courses and seminars

- Attend trade fairs and events to network and find out more