Frequently Asked Questions

Before applying to the Alumni programme

What makes mthree different from other companies?

mthree gets your foot in the door to a career in technology, business or banking. Here’s how:

Prestigious job opportunities: Such as Production Support Analyst at an investment bank, Data Engineer at an insurance company, and Anti-Financial Crime expert at a financial services corporation.
Practical training & support: We offer practical training and ongoing support, giving you the confidence to succeed in your role.
Comprehensive support system: Throughout your journey, from interviews with clients to training at mthree Academy to your role on site, we’re there to support you every step of the way.
No training fee: You will never have to pay a thing, even if you leave early.
Choose where you work: Unlike other companies, you’re in control of which location you work.
Career progression by design: The programme offers a career path with structured performance-linked pay raises every 12 months. At the end of the 12-24 months placement, the vast majority continue their careers as a permanent employee with the client company.

Why should you choose mthree, rather than applying to our clients directly?

It depends on your circumstance, but here are a few reasons why mthree might be the better option for you:

Upfront practical training: mthree provides training in the practical skills necessary for excelling in specific roles, offering a unique advantage.
Bridge to corporate world: Our trainers aim to help you transition into the corporate environment, speeding up your career progression with expert-led virtual classroom learning.
Focus on potential: Unlike many organisations seeking graduates with an existing skill set, mthree looks for potential and the ability to develop, making it easier to get started.
Alumni network: Access to a supportive Alumni network, facilitating connections with peers in similar career stages.
Long-term opportunities: A significant majority of our graduates (90%) secure permanent positions with our clients after their Alumni placement.

What do we look for in a candidate?

We look for a blend of academic achievement, passion to succeed, and personal qualities like motivation, curiosity, and communication skills.

Qualifications:

Graduate programme: Requires a university degree. Preference for practical subjects, especially STEM for tech roles and business, finance, mathematics, or economics for non-tech roles. However, we consider all backgrounds.
Non-degree programme: Demonstrated potential and passion are key.

Common qualities across all candidates:

Academic performance: Good grades are generally preferred, but exceptions exist.
Practical skills: Tech roles such as software development require basic programming knowledge.
Right to work: Must have the legal right to work in the job’s location.

Beyond qualifications:

Self-motivation: A demonstrated interest in tech, business, or banking.
Curiosity: An inquisitive nature, analytical thinking, and the ability to think outside the box.
Communication: Effective listening, collaboration, and the potential to develop confidence through our training.
Proactiveness: Eagerness to embrace new experiences, tackle challenges, and exceed expectations for career advancement.

How can you best prepare for an interview?

Read on for our three top tips to help you prepare for any interview, whether it’s with mthree or somewhere else:

Research the organisation. Explore their website, social media, and blogs to understand their culture and operations. Utilise platforms like Glassdoor for insights from current and former employees.
Know your resume/CV inside out. Be prepared to discuss any part of your CV in detail, as interviewers often focus on specific experiences or skills listed.
Understand your motivation: Reflect on your reasons for applying to the job or program. Considering both past experiences and future aspirations.

Beyond that, the preparation you need to do will probably vary according to the job, the industry or sector, the role, the team and the organisation. Just be sure to read all emails carefully, ask your contact for clarification if you’re feeling really unsure about what the process will involve, and you’ll be fine!

What sort of interview questions will you be asked?

The exact questions we ask at mthree will depend on the role or the training pathway you’re looking at, but we do tend to focus on a few key themes to understand if a career is right for you. Here’s what we’re interested in finding out:

Activities you do outside of academia that encourage your passion in the relevant area (for example technology, or getting into the finance sector).
Situational topics to explore how you work in different environments, e.g. while under pressure or collaborating with others.
Projects you’ve been involved in that didn’t go to plan, and how you resolved those issues.
Problem-solving. There’s no particular right or wrong answer to this type of question – we just want to see your thought process and the way you structure your approach when you don’t already know what to do.
Transferable skills. For example, for a software development role, we don’t just consider graduates with a background in computer science, we look at all aspects of STEM (science, technology, engineering, maths). It’s about gauging your awareness of how your current abilities could fit into your future career.

Do you need coding experience to have a career in tech?

Software development roles tend to require some knowledge of programming – but you’ll find an array of other roles in technology that anyone can get into.

Some of those roles will involve you picking up coding responsibilities on the job. This opens doors to opportunities in software development in future. You’ll also collaborate with software developers day to day, giving you a valuable window into that world. SRE/DevOps, one of the training pathways at mthree is great for this (though it always depends on the team and the workload).

Starting out in a role that isn’t pure software development doesn’t shut you off from coding forever. It might just be your route into the field.

What are the mthree pathways?

You'll work in an industry like banking, finance, insurance, retail, public sector, or technology in roles across:

Software development:
Perfect for you if you have programming experience in an object-oriented programming language. Some of the typical languages we focus on during training are Java, Python, C# or C++. The language we focus on during training is dependent on the skills required by our clients.

Foundations of SRE:

An ideal SRE/Production Support Analyst has good coding skills and enjoys problem solving. SRE/ProductionSupport (also called Application Support) is like healthcare for technology. It’s responsible for making sure systems and applications run smoothly by identifying problems and deploying smart solutions.

Business operations and banking services:

Perfect for you if you have a genuine interest in Banking and Financial Markets. Ideal candidates must have excellent verbal and written communication skills; A curious mindset, keen to learn and upskill.

Before you start training on the Alumni programme

Is there a training bond?

There's no training bond. You may have heard about a training bond at other organisations that use a similar model to mthree, so it’s understandable if you’re worried. But please don’t let it put you off the idea altogether!

At mthree, not only do we think training bonds are unfair, but we don’t see the need for them in the first place. That’s because our program is built around trust – and around our ability to match you with opportunities you’re excited about. This means you won’t ever be charged if you decide to leave, whether during training or during your placement with a client.

What will you be expected to know from day one?

Very little! As a specialist in bridging the skills gap, our industry-aligned training helps you translate academic theory into execution.

The only training pathway that needs some prior knowledge is software development. For all others, we look for people who’ve studied a practical subject with transferable skills, and a genuine interest in the industry or role.

What happens if you don’t get placed into a role before the end of your training?

The way we work with clients varies. Sometimes graduates interview for a specific Alumni role before they start their mthree training, and sometimes we place them during or after the training.

It’s true that roles aren’t always guaranteed. However, it’s worth noting that we’re investing in you by training you up, and we only make a return on our investment if you then go on to work with one of our clients. That’s why getting you sorted out with a great placement is a top priority for us.

In short, the vast majority secure a role. But if this doesn’t happen, you will have been paid to learn practical skills that will support your career elsewhere.

Can you pick the location of your job?

Yes, you can choose where you will or won’t go. When you apply to mthree, we have a discussion with you about the locations you’re open to.

We work with organisations across the country of your application and can have available roles in a number of locations. We will advise you of those open roles/demand and get your location preferences.

You can also be completely “geo-flex”, i.e. willing to relocate and work anywhere which opens up wider opportunities. We ask that you be honest and do not commit to this unless you are fully prepared to work in those locations.

The more locations you highlight that you’re 100% committed to, the higher the chance of being assigned to a role with mthree and our clients. This is because you get access to more opportunities across multiple locations. But we will never place you somewhere you don’t want to be. We always take your preferences into account before putting you forward for roles.

Globally our clients’ main locations tend to be cities. For example, New York, Montreal, London, Glasgow, Budapest, Krakow and Bengaluru.

During training and being put forward for opportunties

How is the training delivered?

Training is conducted through live sessions with our in-house trainers via Microsoft Teams; as well as offline self-study time to avoid zoom fatigue.

There are approximately 10-25 graduates per training cohort (a great opportunity to interact and network with alumni from very similar backgrounds and goals.) Each training program is put together by our trainers and is aligned specifically to the pathway best suited to the candidate. The overall training will consist of morning stand-up calls, afternoon wrap-up calls, code-along with the instructor during our technical training, 1-1 appointment with trainers if needed, individual projects, group projects with peers, mandatory quizzes and assessments, and additional content provided through our LMS.

Our trainers are here to help you translate your degree into what employers need. This means building up your skills while teaching you new skills targeted to the role you’re going for. The result? You’ll be ready to fly from day one. It’s more than just tech training. All pathways cover vital professional skills and industry knowledge. You’ll also get access to online training materials to help you continue building skills relevant to your role throughout your placement.

Should you require any adjustments during the training, please reach out to your recruiter to discuss the options available to you. All conversations will be confidential and will never directly impact your standing with us.

Once I start training, when will I start being put forward for interviews?

This can happen at any time

However the many interviews will come towards the end of the training period and after you’ve finished. The training itself is an important aspect that helps our Alumni secure their placements, so it’s sensible to get as much of it under your belts as possible before moving forwards

What happens at the end of training if I don’t have a role?

You will remain in our talent pool and we will continue to seek the right role for you

We will continue to engage with you, keep you updated and prepare you for upcoming interviews and starting your career. There is also lots of additional content for you to continue to upskill after training. mthree isn’t able to guarantee that we will be able to secure a place for candidates with our clients, but our Talent Pool team works hard to present you with as many opportunities as possible.

Will there be interview prep sessions?

You will receive interview guidance and assistance with preparation for each interview

Since we have experience placing candidates with our clients, we use our prior experience to help ensure you will perform at your best. Though we expect you to put in the work and follow our guidance in preparing for your interview.

Will I be able to choose what roles I go forward for?

It’s important to understand that the more you limit yourself, the longer it will take to find you a position.

We are firm believers that an open mind goes a long way, and that getting your foot in the door is the most important step of your career. We’ll guide you and give you advice, but we’ll never force you to go for something you feel you cannot commit to.

Can I interview for multiple roles at the same time?

Interviewing for multiple roles, to different timelines, can lead to complications

mthree have a responsibility to our clients and must remain transparent and professional in our conduct, as must you so we will manage this process and limit the number of roles to 2.

How many people go forward for each role?

Typically, we work to ratios of around 3 candidates per 1 open role

This makes your chances of success MUCH higher than if you were interviewing outside of mthree. Those odds increase significantly when we are working with our bigger clients who source for multiple roles at once

When will I know if I have got the role?

As soon as we know, you will know

Generally, the partner client will confirm within 2-3 days of the interview, but it can take longer as they seek their own internal approvals to engage. We will keep you informed and advise you as soon as we have heard from the Client.

What happens if I don’t secure a role at interview?

This can happen for a number of reasons, please do not consider it a failure.

We will provide honest feedback and help you prepare for the next interview. Looking for work can be a process and we have teams with years of career coaching experience that will help you highlight your skills, ability and personality during your next interview.

What if I secure a role outside mthree?

During training we expect your full commitment, and you should not be interviewing outside of mthree.

Following training all we ask is that you be professional and honest with us and keep us informed. We cannot continue to put you forward for roles that you are unable to take, so please advise us immediately of this or any other circumstantial change that prevents you from progressing with the mthree program.

During your placement with a client

How will your job develop over the course of your placement?

As an Alumni, your development journey begins with industry-aligned training at the mthree Academy – and there’s lots more learning to look forward to afterwards.

Once you start working with one of our clients, you’ll embark on a continuous learning programme that’s mapped to your role.
You won’t just build your technical skills. We want to develop your personal and interpersonal skills as well, so you can grow into a rounded specialist with critical business skills to help you succeed.

What support will you get from mthree once you're on site with a client?

We will help with your onboarding and organise your performance reviews every six months.

You’ll also have access to lots more mthree training content to continue your development at your own pace. Modules include soft skills like mindfulness and critical thinking as well as practical skills that relate directly to your role.
On top of that, in the client team where you’re working, you’ll have a line manager who gives you your everyday tasks. This means you’re getting support through two different avenues: from us and from our client.
Holidays planned? We just ask that you keep us updated. Please inform us as soon as you in order for us to work around the dates in terms of scheduling interviews and start dates.

How long does on-boarding take?

Onboarding into a client can take up to 8 weeks depending on client compliance requirements and information provided from yourself to initiate the background checks.

These organisations have a number of processes, check lists and onboarding requirements to complete as well as systems and building access to secure. We do our best to speed this process up and we ask for your full co-operation to complete all the necessary checks.

Any specific software required the Clinet will provide guidance on that during on-boarding/induction stage.

Do you get a benefits package?

You get guaranteed performance-linked pay rises every 12 months. The benefits we offer on top of that vary from country to country, ranging from gym memberships to life assurance to dental insurance.

What exactly will my role involve day to day?

We will usually, though not always, have a job spec from the Client.

There are occasions when the Client does not have specific roles but a general need for talent within a division and the role will evolve day to day on site. We do our best to get you all the relevant information and encourage you to ask these questions at interview.

Will you definitely be offered a contract with the client at the end of your placement?

9 in 10 Alumni are offered a permanent role with the client at the end of their placement. This means they can switch over from being our employee to their employee. Occasionally it doesn’t happen, but you’re very very likely to have the opportunity to stay on and continue your career with the organisation where you’ve been working.

If you don’t get an offer of a permanent role, we may be able to move you over to work with another one of our clients instead. (We can’t always guarantee this, but we will always do our best!)

Are you a contractor with mthree?

No, you’re employed by us as a permanent member of staff. This means we handle a lot of the tax, legal and HR aspects of your work on your behalf – unlike contractors, who are self-employed and so have to do most of that themselves.
It’s understandable if you find this confusing, we know it’s complicated.

Can you work with lots of different mthree clients?

We’re often asked this, but mthree isn’t like a traditional consultancy. It’s not project-based work where you move around from place to place – that’s not really the point.
Unlike other programs, your placement is geared around helping you grow into a specific niche. Generally as an Alumni, you’d work within one team in one organisation for 1-2 years. This is reflected in the guaranteed performance-linked pay rises that you can look forward to every 12 months.

Will I be working from home or in an office?

You will be subject to each Client’s individual policy.

As remote roles can be challenging for new employees with limited experience most of our roles are transitioning to be in person. Please be prepared to be on site at the client location if you accept a role. Though some clients will have flexible schedules that will allow you to work from home some days we encourage you to work in the office where possible to learn from your peers, fully experience your role, get access to Management and Senior Leadership, build your network and enjoy the social side of working in Clients and in major cities.

What is the dress code?

Generally, “Smart”

We would advise that you dress appropriately and professionally initially and then gauge the general dress code once on-site.

Do I need my own laptop?

Yes. During training and any remote work

When on-site you will have access to Client’s hardware and desktop computers.

mthree does not provide laptops.

Frequently asked questions