Business Specialist Review

I work in a branch and look after small business customer (turnover less than £2M) My job involves opening new accounts, providing lending and organising events to support our business customers and their growth. I also pop out to current and potential customers in the region to improve bank relationship and offer support

I have developed my communication skills. Interacting with a wide variety of customers and colleagues on a daily basis I am able to adapt to my audience and communicate effectively. I am also able to network extensively internally and extensively and this is a new skill I have developed.

I feel well supported in my programme and am given lots of opportunities. I don't feel at a disadvantage by being an apprentice and in fact feel I have more opportunities open to me within the organisation as a result. I am only at the early stages but I am looking forward to seeing my self grow.

My programme is clearly laid out and I know every event and milestone occurring during my programme for the next 4 years. This means I am able to plan my work schedule around these. I am given a study day a week to complete all the work associated with my programme. This means that my workload is manageable alongside my "day job"

The apprenticeship team within the organisation are incredibly supportive. I have a direct contact I am able to go to should I have any problems and they are very supportive of my needs. The programme is new for the organisation but as colleagues awareness grows so has support from my colleagues.

I have a talent coach who is always on hand should I require any extra support. We have regular skills workshops hosted by the training provider and I have found these useful in supporting my study. The degree providers material is extensive and informative and I have found the material provided and delivered thorough. It has given me all the knowledge required to excel at my qualification.

My qualification has so far provided me with extensive knowledge of banking/economics that I was previously completely naïve to. This knowledge has provide invaluable to my role and I have been able to explain things to experienced colleagues as a result. I feel that the two marry perfectly.

There are a variety of networks within the organisation to be involved in including religious, sports and everything you can imagine. I have attended events hosted by different societies including a Diwali celebration. There are also a number of networking events I am able to attend and grow my network. The organisation focuses on wellbeing and these extra curricular activities.

Yes

I am not treated like an apprentice (in a negative way) the stigma associated doesn't exist in HSBC. I am championed and supported by my colleagues. My development is overseen and supported by many key stakeholders. I am valued by the organisation and genuinely believe that this is not just a stepping stone but a leap in to a career in the bank.

Applying for such a large international bank like HSBC can be a daunting process. But HSBC look for a variety of staff and views to be the successful organisation it is. I was unsure if the skills I had would be right for a bank but they really do value different backgrounds and perspectives. Give it a go. Apply and be yourself! You have nothing to lose but perhaps an awful lot to gain!