Karen Auge

"It is this variety of possibilities that I really like"

How long have you been working for Continental?
I started in September 2009.

Why did you decide on a vocational degree at Continental?
Living in Hanover as I do, Continental has always been a household word for me. In school I already heard about the good reputation of the training and then I saw an interesting training advertisement in the newspaper that caught my eye. So I read all about it on the career homepage and applied shortly thereafter.
The positive impression I had was affirmed during the selection process. I was attracted in particular by the global orientation as well as the extensive possibilities for further education. Once you are in the corporation, all doors will be open to you.

How does Continental support you during your degree?
Everyone is open to questions and helps out when there are any problems. Internal seminars and training sessions help you to get ready for day-to-day work and to hone your own skills.

What are your day-to-day duties?
There isn't really a typical work day. Sometimes, the work is mainly analytical, and then other times, you have contact with customers. This is because, during your time as ContiBachelor, you go through various departments, and a part of the program is spent in the academy.
In addition, you are involved in projects which provide for even greater diversity. I’m thinking here about the teamwork in the junior company YoungConti, in which all trainees and ContiBachelors from Hanover can become involved. In a nutshell: It is this variety of possibilities that I really like.

What tasks have you particularly enjoyed so far during your dual training program?
That is really hard to say, since the tasks are all so different. In general, it’s great working independently on projects, developing professionally along the way. I really had a lot of fun in particular working with other trainees to organize this year's Future Day in Hanover Stöcken. I learned quite a bit by developing and organizing the project with a high degree of personal responsibility.

Why would you recommend a vocational degree at Continental?
At Continental, the working climate is very good. As a trainee or bachelor, you feel integrated in new departments quickly and are taken seriously. The colleagues are very helpful.
And I also think the international nature of the corporation is really great. By working with colleagues from various countries, you can gather intercultural experience early on – an aspect that is very important for me.

What skills are required in order to complete the training successfully?
To be successful in the departments and in the academy, you need to have a good command of English and a basic understanding of mathematics. But personality is a lot more important than knowledge: You should be motivated, willing to learn and open for new things. It is also essential that you can work independently and deal with people you don't know. 

How do you rate career opportunities at Continental?
Career opportunities are good. Continental tries to find positions for all trainees.
I consider the trainee program to be a stepping stone for my career later on. That is why it is important during this time to acquire the necessary skills, set up a network and of course to demonstrate commitment.
I also find it positive that at Continental, you have the opportunity to work abroad and to obtain further qualifications during your entire professional life.

How important is teamwork in your everyday work?
Very important! Certain tasks or projects just can't be carried out alone. Usually, good results can't be achieved without coordinating things. That is why teamwork is also a major part of the training. For instance, there is a seminar on the topic of team building and the capacity for dealing with conflict to strengthen this skill.

How do you strike a balance between work, free time and family?
That's not a problem. Of course, there is always plenty to do, but we still have enough time off. It can become stressful only during exams, when there isn't much free time.

What do you do for recreation?
I am an active member of a music society, and we rehearse each week and often have performances on the weekends. Sport is a great counterbalance to work, and I also enjoy reading or going out with friends.