Injecting fun into internship
Feruni prepares its trainees by exposing them to work-life balance
INTERNSHIP programmes are aimed at preparing students for the corporate world by giving them exposure to actual work life.
To make it fun and interesting, Feruni Ceramiche Sdn Bhd has incorporated the company’s culture, core values and pillars of happiness into its internship programme.
Established in February 2016, the programme took in 12 interns last year, including two from Cambodia.
“This platform allows interns to discover and develop their passion and skills as well as increase their confidence. Opportunities are created for everyone and we make sure to do what we love while making a positive impact to our community,” says Feruni talent agent Teresa Thoo.
The internship programme is Thoo’s brainchild and is structured to ensure the interns get practical experience and have the right attitude.
“More importantly, it enriches their learning journey while they are still young. They will know what to expect, what to do and how to make things happen,” she explains.
She stresses that Feruni is a place where talent is cultivated.
Thoo is happy that their interns have grown from the time they first came onboard, noting that two from last year’s batch became permanent staff.
Feruni’s internship programme takes place throughout the year with an average duration of three months depending on the universities or colleges the students come from.
The interns will be put through a group interview to understand their personality and character so that they can be placed in departments based on their subject of study and strengths.
The homework and evaluation of each task for the interns are conducted through an app that is automatically synced. The app allows supervisors to upload programme structures, make announcements, assign tasks and deadlines and conduct performance evaluation while interns keep track of their daily tasks, understand the learning modules and supervisor’s expectations and receive marks.
The interns also attend training classes on customer experience and visit the tile production warehouse for a better understanding of Feruni’s products.
Business studies students Tan Kelvin and Tan Hui Shan, both 22-year-olds from Sunway University, were placed in the marketing and branding division.
“It is a learning curve for us as we are not glued to a certain task. Instead we get to be involved in many other important projects too,” Kelvin enthuses.
He is also happy that both he and Hui Shan were entrusted to take ownership of Feruni’s social media accounts.
“They trust us to handle certain things that not many companies do with their interns. We are always encouraged to ask questions which our supervisors will eagerly teach and share,” he adds.
Hui Shan notes that the workspace provides a conducive environment to work in.
“There are no barriers between the seniors and interns. We are all treated equally and are able to communicate with the staff without feeling like they will judge us.
“Even Datuk CC Ngei has casual chats with us and we feel comfortable talking to him. Feruni likes to keep things fresh, which makes us feel good and excited to come to work,” she says.
Another intern, business management student Careen tan, 22, has been placed with the culture team where she assists the happiness officers during Feruni’s weekly tour and contributes ideas to promote happiness in the office.
“This is suitable for me because I get to do different things every day and it is fun that I get to prepare surprises for my colleagues,” says Careen.
The interns were also automatically included into clubs at Feruni including the Gourmet School, Fit Factory and Literati Club. Careen enjoys being in the Gamer’s Den Club since she likes playing pool.
“Feruni keeps things lively for everyone because we spend almost the entire day in the office,” she comments.
Interns are given monthly allowance, leave and medical benefits as well as certificate of appreciation for their contributions.
Those interested can find out more about the internship programme at Feruni’s website.