Four key takeaways from “Næringslivsdagen” at NTNU
On February 6th, VARD participated in NTNU Ålesund’s "Næringslivsdag", one of the most important arenas connecting students and businesses at Sunnmøre.
14. February 2025
The event is organized by the student organization Næringslivsutvalget (NLU) and provides students with the opportunity to meet potential employers, explore career paths, and build valuable networks.
Being present at events like this is crucial for VARD. It allows us to spark interest in career opportunities within our company, engage with students face-to-face, and strengthen our connection with the younger generation — our future employees. We are pleased to see VARD’s strong position among students at NTNU and to share insights about what it’s like to work with us.
What do students look for in an employer?
We took the opportunity to ask students about their expectations for a future employer. Here are four key takeaways from their answers:
- Strong Onboarding programs
Students value a smooth transition from university to working life. A well-structured onboarding program helps new employees feel confident and prepared for their roles. - A Supportive learning environment
An open and inclusive workplace that encourages learning and development is a priority for students. They want to feel that there is room to grow and gain new skills. - A Welcoming and social workplace
A positive work culture where employees feel included and comfortable interacting with colleagues is essential. A friendly environment makes a big difference in daily work life. - Challenging and meaningful work
Students seek diverse and exciting tasks, along with early responsibilities that allow them to contribute and develop professionally.
How does VARD meet these expectations?
VARD continuously strives to understand the needs and expectations of our talent to attract and retain them effectively. This includes staying up to date with, for example, flexibility agreements that support work-life integration.
Three key focus areas aimed at students are:
Structured programs for students and graduates
Our internship, graduate, and trainee programs provide a smooth transition into working life, combining professional and personal growth. Participants engage in development opportunities through structured training, social events, and hands-on experience. A buddy system ensures support during the first months, and we encourage employees to take on new challenges to enhance their skills.
Development opportunities
We prioritize professional growth by aligning expectations for development, leadership, and company culture. Employees gain hands-on experience and access to training programs, fostering career progression in a supportive environment. New challenges are encouraged to help individuals expand their expertise and develop within the organization.
Social
This initiative consists of 20 ambassadors from various Norwegian locations who collaborate to create diverse activities and events for employees and their families. We strongly believe in the importance of having fun at work and the value of building relationships within a large organization. To further support well-being and work-life balance, we also offer flexible work arrangements, including core hours and remote work options.
By participating in career days like this, we not only connect with students but also gain valuable insights into what the next generation expects from an employer. This feedback helps us continue to develop an attractive and engaging workplace for future talents.
Curious about a career in VARD?
Check out our career site for more information about our talent programs and available positions.
