Anuranjita Kumar is head of human resources, global banking, EMEA, at Citi – a global financial services company
Candidates who are knowledgeable about our products and who are well prepared make the best impression: In general I would say that the level and calibre of CVs is increasing and making it more difficult to differentiate. We give importance to the cover letter and numerical test as a way to differentiate. A trend I am seeing is that we are come across candidates who are increasing knowledgeable about the products they are applying to and are prepared.
Graduates need to demonstrate the following, especially at the interview stages:
- Preparation: know why banking appeals, why Citi, research, be up to date and put into practice the desire to obtain a job or internship.
- Attitude: demonstrate a desire to learn, integrate, achieve and be team players.
Shona Matthews is head of strategic implementation at the Chartered Institute of Bankers in Scotland (CIOBS) - the oldest banking institute in the world and the only remaining banking institute in the UK
Think about what all employers want - and show them that you have it: It is important that when applying for roles, the employer understands the correlation between the skill and knowledge you have amassed during your academic career, alongside any jobs undertaken to support yourself. These might include; the ability to write well, to produce quality reports, undertake analysis, to think creatively/logically, to work to deadlines and to self manage. Think about what all employers want and that is to find an enthusiastic employee that is quick to learn and therefore quickly contributes to their business and adds value to their team.
Jhan Burger is a specialist financial markets lecturer at Kaplan - a UK provider of accountancy and financial training
Get up to speed on some of the basic jargon: A qualification will never guarantee anything, but if you are coming from a non-financial background, then it would serve you well to get up to speed on some of the basic jargon and structure of this fragmented and complex industry before hitting those interviews. One of the ways to do this is to explore some of the benchmark CISI (Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment) and CFA UK qualifications. Often these are qualifications that you can complete in a matter of months. They have the added benefit of illustrating to employers your interest and saves them from having to pay for you to do it if your job is one that requires a demonstration of competence to the FSA.
Laura Raznick is head of student careers liaison at ESCP- Europe Business School
Join your finance society at university: As a first year, lots of financial companies will offer the chance to take part in insight days during the spring break. These events are a great way to understand more about the different divisions. Also, join your finance society at university as they will have many guest speakers coming to talk about the different areas and will arrange visits to companies. Another good resource for understanding more about the industry is The Gateway - a bit like the FT for students.
Amanda Haig is the graduate HR manager for Allianz Insurance – an international financial services provider
A relevant degree isn't always essential - I'm on the lookout for the best all round graduate: For some of our schemes you will need to have a related degree but, for example, the CMT scheme you can apply with any degree. I don't just look at the internships that you have completed but at all jobs and responsibilities that you have undertaken. We look at things like customer service experience, working under pressure, your leadership of groups and your involvement in societies. I am always on the lookout for the best all round graduate that has lots of different experiences and shows flexibility.
Dr Robert Webb is course leader at postgraduate level at GCU London - Glasgow Caledonian University's new postgraduate university college based in Spitalfields which specialises in banking, finance and risk
Don't disregard working in academia: One thing I would note to all those looking for a job in the financial services industry is not to disregard academia - there is a real dearth of academics in the area of banking and finance - mainly due to the prospective salaries in the City. However, universities are having to offer better salaries to the right candidate. One drawback is that you will need a PhD which can be expensive, although there are bursaries out there for you to study. The job can be varied and include teaching, liaising with industry and research into key topics.
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