What I learnt during my internship at AB InBev -By Shivam Mehrotra from IIM Ahmedabad

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AB InBev has the vision of “Bringing people together for a better world.” Being the world’s leading brewer, an internship at AB InBev could pave a path for my promising and bright future. After all, which other company could provide me the kind of exposure that AB InBev boasts of?

So, when I heard of this opportunity, there was nothing that could stop me from pouncing at it.

What is the selection process for doing an internship at AB InBev?

Prior to the selection process, AB InBev gave a PPT. It was one of the coolest PPT, meant to acquaint the interested students with the company’s profile and internship responsibilities. Although the selection process comprised of just one step of Personal Interview, it was a real test of my endurance capabilities. The interviewer threw one question after another at me that were directly associated with the company's tasks. Sailing through AB InBev’s selection process was not at all easy. So, I could not control my excitement when I finally bagged this opportunity.

What was my role during my internship?

I was offered the role of Marketing and Brands Team intern at AB InBev. As a part of my project, I worked on a Brand Repositioning Strategy for 5 AB InBev brands and suggested brand activation plans for the same. Shouldering this responsibility, I had to engage in extensive market research and base my findings on a detailed analysis of consumer insights that I gauged during the process. This responsibility, at times, proved tiring and challenging. I had to put my best foot forward to do justice to this role. But fortunately, all these challenges failed to shake my confidence and I could give it my best shot. What a riveting experience it was!

What did I learn during my internship?

The extent of my role during my internship at AB InBev gave me enough room to polish my communication skills. I had pre-planned everything and tried to exploit every learning opportunity that came my way. It was quite amazing to see myself progressing slowly, taking one step at a time. I learnt to communicate effectively by breaking down a problem or a solution in clear steps. All this helped me a great deal in communicating my thought process in an effective manner. It also refined it by adding insights from the responses of other people.

What is the work culture at AB InBev?

I had to move to a different city to attend my internship at AB InBev and I was absolutely mesmerized by the city’s positive vibe. Oh, how much I wished that I had a little more time to explore the city in more depth! The best aspect of my internship at AB InBev was the informal behavior of senior executives which allowed me to learn from them better.

Yes! Yes! I would definitely love to work with AB InBev as a full-time employee. The reason behind it is simple. AB InBev is a perfect combination of a result-driven company fuelled by passionate and helpful individuals. There are a plethora of opportunities for holistic growth and development. Also, I loved the company’s unorthodox approach and would love to be a part of such a reputed brand.

What did I learn from my mentor during my internship at AB InBev?

“Shivam, this is your hustle and you have to push forward for better results". These words still resonate in my mind when I think about my mentor.  A never-say-die attitude even when you think you have achieved your goal so that it can be looked at through different perspectives was his mantra. He instilled into my mind the philosophy of never settling for something less than what you deserve. Working under his guidance was a rewarding experience that gave me important lessons for a lifetime.

On a concluding note, I wish to list a few unforgettable incidents from my internship at AB InBev. The most memorable day was when my pilot project ran and I checked my offering on Tipsy Bull's app. The applause that followed filled me with joy to the brim. And yes, how can I forgot the learning sessions with Ankit and Eshan and movie discussions with Abhirupa! Last but not least, the day my salary was credited and the happiness on my parent’s face because of the gifts I bought for them is going to stay with me forever. Thank you AB InBev for converting my dream into reality.