Roll up your sleeves! The courage to change and be flexible

What did you do before joining ING and what are your current responsibilities?

Before I started at ING, I got a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Business Psychology. During my studies, I did several internships and student jobs in HR and Recruiting at different companies. After completing my Master’s, I worked for a short time as a recruiter at McKinsey before joining ING. 

How did you hear about ING’s International Talent Program (ITP) and why did you choose it?

To be honest, I never really planned to work at a bank. But I was interested in doing an internship and when I searched I quickly came across ING’s ITP. In the end, I chose ING for two reasons: firstly, the ITP includes a rotation abroad, which really appealed to me. And secondly, the vibe at the interview won me over, which was even more important to me. 😊 

What rotations have you already done? Which project or topic was a highlight during your rotations?

My first rotation was in HR IT Change & Project Management. I supported the implementation of Workday and a new HR ticketing system. My second rotation was with the HR Business Partner team, where I advised our managers and senior management on HR strategy issues. The last rotation was with the Talent & Learning team in the USA, where I supported topics such as onboarding, diversity & inclusion and summer interns. I learned a lot in each rotation and always had a lot of fun – but the highlight was being able to take on a lot of responsibility with the HR Business Partners. 

Were there any challenging or difficult moments during your time as a trainee? How did you solve them?

Yes, absolutely. A traineeship is not always a walk in the park. Every few months, we have to learn about completely new topics and find our place in new teams. This is definitely challenging and sometimes exhausting. What kept me going was how helpful everyone was. But also the fact that each trainee was assigned an experienced mentor with whom we could talk openly about anything. As I wasn’t the only trainee, it was helpful that we were all in this together and could support each other. 

As part of the ITP, our trainees also complete a rotation abroad. Where exactly in the USA did go? What experiences did you have there?

I had the amazing opportunity to spend my rotation in New York City. It was an incredible time and I’m so grateful to have experienced it. The local team was very nice, helpful and fun. Apart from the topics I was working on, I also had a lot of time to explore and experience the city in all its facets. This time abroad helped me grow professionally, but also personally: I learned to trust life more and become more resilient. 

How do you feel about ING’s corporate culture here in Germany? And during your stay abroad? Are there any differences?

The corporate culture in Germany is characterized by our Orange Code, i.e. our values and behaviors. This is clearly noticeable as everyone is helpful, friendly and approachable – right up to the Executive Board. I had the exact same experience in New York, where I immediately felt comfortable and at home in my team. The biggest difference I noticed was the way we work. While in Germany we’re more relationship-oriented, taking time for coffee, lunch and small talk before meetings, Americans are more task- and goal-oriented. While they’re always friendly, they can’t wait to get down to business and get the job done right away. 

There is an international network for ITP trainees. What experiences have you had with this?

In January, we spent a week in Amsterdam with all the trainees from twelve countries to improve our social and banking skills in workshops. We also had a lot of time to network. I found it very helpful to see that we were all dealing with similar issues, that we could share ideas and help each other. I also have the impression that we all tick in a similar way and live up to our Orange Code. 

What do you think applicants should bring to the ITP? What advice would you give them?

Of course, there are criteria that need to be met. But apart from that, it’s important that anyone who’s interested definitely enjoys learning and has a lot of motivation – because it won’t always be easy and you’ll have to work hard at times. I think it’s especially important to be open to change and to be flexible. Each rotation brings new topics and you have to adapt to different people.  

What tasks await you after the ITP?

I’ll continue as an expert in the Talent & Learning department in the Frankfurt office. I’ll primarily be responsible for developing our internal talent and onboarding new employees. I’m very excited and looking forward to it! 

Is there anything else you’d like to say? 😊

Absolutely! 😊 I can wholeheartedly recommend ING as an employer. Not only are there a lot of cool benefits for employees (budget for home office equipment, work bike, learning budget, health budget and more), but there are often fun sweepstakes and promotions. Last year, for example, I won tickets to the Parookaville Festival, including glamping and alpaca yoga at the festival’s ING Village. And this year, tickets to the German national basketball team’s test game before the Olympics. Plus, there are all kinds of great events for employees, such as barbecues, the J.P. Morgan Run or a Christmas market in the ING courtyard.