Interview with Melinda Wong
Investment Accounting Index Solutions
Credit Suisse Asset Management, Zürich
You have already hosted a B360 intern several times. Another student from our partner University in Zambia arrived a few days ago. This means a lot of extra work, responsibility and personal engagement for you and your team. What motivates you to do so?
My motivation is to make the three months for the student as interesting as possible. I hope that she can gain as much experience and receive valuable insights into various Operations departments, which she can take back home.
The students from Namibia/South Africa/Zambia coming to Switzerland have not been exposed to a business environment and have never been outside their country. What are the key cultural and professional challenges that they face and how do you help them to cope?
The key cultural challenge, which the students face are the different languages (German and Swiss German) that are spoken amongst the work colleagues. The students will face professional challenges such as having to learn IT programs, which they have never seen or used before. They will have to get used to routine tasks and meet certain deadlines.
According to the B360 philosophy, the result of all efforts and activities should result/cumulate in a win-win situation for all parties involved. What is needed to make the three month internship a win-win situation for all parties involved according to the B360 philosophy/concept?
In order to make a win-win situation for all parties involved, patience will be needed. Both parties have to be willing to take the time to get to know each other and take into consideration that this is a learning process for both parties. The student should be willing to help our team members in daily routine tasks and work on projects.
How would you rate the cooperation with B360 before, during and after the internship?
I would rate the cooperation with B360 very good for the entire process of the internship because all parties involved are always kept up to date. The B360 team frequently ask us for any feedback or input during the entire time.
What is your personal advice you would like to give the student/intern for his/her future life in business?
My personal advice, which I would like to give to the student/intern for his/her future life in business, is to take every opportunity to gain knowledge in various fields and maintaining good relationships with colleagues. Being resilient, flexible and honest are also important characteristics, which are needed to be successful in today’s business world.