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In our NORMAPeople series, employees from around the world talk about their day-to-day work, how they came to the company, and what they like about their jobs.
Thomas Maser is a working student for HR & Integrity at NORMA Group’s headquarters in Maintal, Germany. In this interview, he talks about his daily work routine and the challenges that come with a working student job.
Thomas, how long have you been working at NORMA Group?
I have been here as a working student in the HR department since the beginning of the year.
What are your tasks?
My tasks include supporting my colleagues in all HR-related issues. My work starts with the first step of the hiring process, namely recruiting. I also work on various projects for our HR Business Partners worldwide and am responsible for the general administration of HR topics. Last but not least, I plan and supervise my own smaller projects.
And what do you like best about your job?
I particularly enjoy supporting our HR Business Partners with their projects and carrying out smaller projects on my own. I really appreciate having the opportunity to contribute my own ideas. It allows me to earn something new every day and to make an important contribution to a project.
The work I do for NORMA Group is varied and covers a wide range of different topics. I am in constant contact with colleagues from different departments around the world.
Are there any special aspects about being at NORMA Group as a working student?
What was really special is that from the very first day, a great deal of trust was placed in me. I was immediately introduced to all areas of activity and am part of the team.
What are you studying and what is the connection between your studies and your work at NORMA Group?
I have been studying business psychology since last year and am currently in my third semester. My studies are providing me with both the basic business knowledge that you need in a company and the interpersonal aspects that are so vital for the HR department.
What challenges do you face studying and being a working student at the same time?
Time management is challenging – it requires planning skills to balance studying, work, family, friends and free time. Studying full-time while working part-time at the same time is not for everyone. But it is possible to learn how to better combine the two.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to be a working student at NORMA Group?
Basically, I would advise any applicant to take a close look at the job posting and to individualize the application, which consists of a cover letter, resume and references, to the specific position. I would, however, advise against a classic cover letter. Instead, I recommend attaching an individual letter of motivation to the application. The key to success is being well prepared for the subsequent interview. Because NORMA Group is an international company, it also doesn’t hurt to brush up on your English skills if necessary.
Being a working student at NORMA Group gives you the opportunity to learn soft skills as well as to gain knowledge and practical experience in an international working environment. This is a great benefit for both professional and personal development.
You work in HR. Is the application process for working students different from other employees?
There are some minimal differences in the application process for working students and other employees. This is mainly because applicants who are still studying have often had few opportunities to gain work experience. Therefore, in such cases, the focus is on the applicant’s qualities, abilities and soft skills.
And finally, please complete the following sentence: I work at NORMA Group because…
…it is an international company and, because of that, I have the opportunity to work with colleagues from different areas and cultures. In addition, my tasks are varied and diverse. I have the opportunity to plan and carry out my own projects – there are no limits to my creativity. I also have great colleagues at my side who support me and encourage my further development.
