Find The Best Graduate Role in Banking and Finance

With competition for employment at an all-time high within the banking and finance industry it is crucially important to stay ahead of the game when applying for graduate jobs. However, if this is your first time applying for work, you may be unsure as to how to stand out. With this in mind, we’ve pulled together some great recommendations and suggestions to kick-start your dream career - it could make all the difference!

Timing

Many graduate schemes open the application process as early as August and sometimes close as early as October. Getting your application in as soon as possible is imperative to getting you off to the best start! You’ll increase your chances of gaining a successful graduate scheme by registering with a recruiter that specialises in Finance Industry jobs, such as here at Priority Placements.

Choose your role carefully

Carefully consider the company you are applying to work for. Do they offer everything you are looking for in a career? Are they the type of company you want to work for? For example, companies do work on a highly ethical basis, ensuring the products and services they provide are fair and honest. When choosing an employer, consider their principles and values; can you share in their business ideologies?

Consider Internships

Adding an internship to your CV will set you apart from the rest. As well as giving you invaluable experience within the industry, an internship will also show you have initiative and truly care about your career.

Interview Skills

Once you’ve found your dream graduate jobs and you’ve waded through application forms, you need to prepare for one of the most important times of your career, interviews. Preparation is essential! Appearance An interview begins as soon as you enter the building so make certain that you present yourself well in both dress and introduction, remember to keep things formal. Timing Take time to answer questions, thinking aloud is a good tactic to avoid awkward silences and clarifying the question to ensure you give your best answer. Remember that the interview process is there so employers can see how you cope under pressure; get prepared by practising mock interviews with your fellow students! Your CV There is nothing more embarrassing in an interview then not knowing your past employment and education. Being able to relay your past experiences and what you’ve learnt shows you are serious about your career goals. The Employer Having an extensive knowledge of the company looking to employ you is essential. Not only does this show initiative but also shows you have a real interest in working for them. Make sure you read their website thoroughly. Arming yourself with as much information as possible and preparing for success will stand you in good stead when it comes to any employers’ final choice – allowing you to take steps towards your dream career in banking and finance with confidence.

References

Forbes.com, (2015). Forbes Welcome. [online] Available at: http://www.forbes.com/sites/alextaub/2012/09/13/five-things-you-need-to-know-about-internships/ [Accessed 29 Oct. 2015]. Hired, 5. (2014). 5 Interview Skills That Will Get You Hired. [online] Business News Daily. Available at: http://www.businessnewsdaily.com/5836-top-interviewing-skills.html [Accessed 29 Oct. 2015]. TARGETjobs, (2015). Beat the competition for investment banking graduate jobs. [online] Available at: https://targetjobs.co.uk/career-sectors/investment-banking-and-investment/394852-beat-the-competition-for-investment-banking-graduate-jobs [Accessed 29 Oct. 2015].