How did you get the job?
I applied for the position at DB Schenker because I worked for United Parcel Service both during and after my studies. After several years in logistics, I have learned that this is a very exciting industry where I want to continue my career.
After two interviews, I finally got the job. I accepted DB Schenker's offer because I got a very good impression of the company through the interviewing process, and it seemed like a place where there are very good opportunities for personal and professional development.
What do you think were the most important factors for being offered the job?
The main reason I got this job is that I have had a common thread from studies and work.
I specialized in international trade and analytical topics, and wrote a master thesis on the effects of reduced trade barriers. Combined with work experience from both the export and import side of the logistics industry, I had a strong foundation for further development.
The course combination and the master's thesis I chose showed the employer that I had experience in the field. This has been crucial to receiving the opportunity to work for DB Schenker.
I also participated in both social and professional organizations during the study period. This shows that I am able to juggle different tasks, which may have tipped the scales in my favor.
What are your tasks in your current job?
My job is to run the operational-related communication with some of our biggest customers. I follow up our operations both internally and externally and am responsible for further developing and streamlining our production methods.
I work a lot with preparing various analyses and reports. For this type of work, the knowledge from my economy background from UiO is of great value.
I also travel to the various parts of the business that handle the products. The traveling provides practical knowledge that is essential for making good decisions regarding our operations.
How is the knowledge you acquired through studying economics relevant to your current job?
My education is of great value in my daily work, although I do not necessarily use the same models and practices we learned in the various courses.
Analytical thinking and the use of statistical tools is what have benefited me most from the studies.
Much of my work requires a great deal of competence in computing – something I gained very useful experience from through the work on my master's thesis.
Do you have any career advice for new students?
My best advice is to have a relevant part-time job. Use this to get a good understanding of the industry in which you work, as this can make you see what opportunities and challenges the company faces. Having this approach will create a strong foundation for taking the next step in the industry.
In addition to this, I recommend focusing on what you do know, rather on what you don’t know. You will not always have the knowledge the job is asking for, but you can still demonstrate the qualities you have.
Emphasize both industry-specific and general knowledge, so that employers see that you have the underlying qualities to master the job you are applying for.
(The interview was originally conducted in Norwegian, and is translated to English).