When skilled workers are in short supply, it is essential for companies to support young talent early. Internships and working-student jobs give students insights into an industry and how a company operates, while businesses benefit from students’ fresh ideas and academic knowledge.

Eckhard Brockhoff, Managing Partner of Brockhoff & Partner, understands this well. For decades he has supported young talent at his Essen real estate company. He currently offers interns and working students the chance to gain practical experience at the Ruhr region’s leading real estate services provider.

One is Léonard Schleich, who has worked at the company since 2018. After completing a bachelor’s degree in real estate, he is studying for a master’s in project development at EBZ Business School in Bochum. He values the opportunity to gain experience in the company’s Office, Retail and Invest divisions while studying. “It is exciting to see how much you learn in a short time and how quickly you develop your skills. The company encourages and expects independence and a structured, self-directed way of working,” says Schleich.

David Reinhardt has also worked for the company since 2018 and appreciates the variety. He particularly values interesting, flexible tasks, diverse customer contact and the dynamic team at Brockhoff & Partner. Alongside vocational training as a real estate agent at EBZ vocational college, he is studying for a BA in Real Estate at EBZ Business School. “Working here has helped me develop a practical approach and learn individual marketing strategies. It has also given me the opportunity to build a broad network early,” says Reinhardt.

Working-student positions are not the only opportunity; shorter placements are worthwhile too. Konstantin van Megen gained his first professional experience through a six-week internship while preparing for university.

“I am particularly interested in investment and office for my future career,” says the school-leaver. He was enthusiastic about his internship at Brockhoff: “During my six weeks, many different topics and approaches were explained clearly. My tasks included preparing invoices, communicating with clients and supporting relevant projects.”

What particularly distinguishes Brockhoff & Partner from other companies, he says, is its way of working. “I was impressed by the consistent work ethic from beginning to end. Precision, a focus on results and professional client service define the ‘Brockhoff approach’. I was also struck every day by the exceptional openness and trust shown to me. I do not take that for granted,” says van Megen. With new insights and experience, he will begin a bachelor’s degree in international business administration and management at the renowned WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management in autumn.