Assistant Relationship Manager Review

Supporting my relationship manager to look after our portfolio of commercial customers. This includes assisting with queries, providing an excellent customer experience and supporting with the lending process. I also spend 20% of my working hours studying towards my apprenticeship and completing any mandatory learning required for my role.

Coming from a retail environment, I had a strong background in providing customer service however this has been developed and tailored to speak to commercial customers rather than high street consumers. My time management skills have been refined and I feel that I am able to prioritise my workload well. My resilience has improved throughout my time in the role as my knowledge has increased.

I was welcomed into the team and felt comfortable straight away. My colleagues have been very supportive of my development and have been very encouraging. The culture of the bank allows me to see a clear career path and I feel very motivated to progress through my apprenticeship to get a full time role within the bank. It has been quite stressful working throughout the coronavirus crisis however this has allowed me to be 'thrown in the deep end' and as a result of this I have learnt things I probably wouldn't otherwise.

The induction was very welcoming and a great start to working in the bank. The apprenticeship did not begin until I had been in the role for 4 months which I think is longer than it should have been. Due to being a new starter I did not have many responsibilities or jobs in the first 4 months and feel that I would have benefited from having apprentice work to focus on. Now that my work load has increased, I sometimes find it difficult to put time aside. My line manager is very supportive of my apprenticeship program and regularly checks in with me to make sure that I am managing okay. I also have regular chats with my apprenticeship coach who provides valuable feedback on work and helps if I am unsure of something. The time given to complete the missions allows time for planning and I never feel overwhelmed or rushed to finish something.

My manager has regular check-ins with me and always asks if there is anything I need. Due to home working, I was concerned that I may feel isolated however the support I have received has been fantastic. I don't hesitate to pick up the phone if I need something. The feedback I have received has been great which is really encouraging. My apprentice coach also checks in frequently and is only a phone call away if I need anything.

My tutor/coach is very friendly and approachable. I receive quick responses if I email and I don't hesitate to pick up the phone if I have any queries regarding an assignment or feedback. I have received a lot of praise on the work I have done and my coach takes a genuine interest in my progression and development. I have enjoyed the apprenticeship work so far and am looking forward to completing the program.

I have completed the banking exam required to be successful within the role. The studying required for this has allowed me to have a better understanding of the regulations, ethics and history within the banking sector. I can apply the knowledge I have learnt within the role which makes the job easier to do. The apprenticeship missions (customer relationship management) have allowed me to reflect on the work I have done and will help me to create a portfolio of evidence which will be helpful in an interview when applying for a permanent assistant role. As I was brand new to the banking sector, the apprenticeship has been invaluable as I have gained so much knowledge around processes, products and laws.

Due to the corona virus, this has been put on hold however prior to remote working, there was regular networking events held within the building which was a great opportunity to build relationships with other professionals. The bank allows our team to spend 3 days out of the office a year to help charities. I am a digital advocate for my team which has gained me respect within the team and I have become somewhat of an expert. This helped me to find my place within the team as a lot of my colleagues have been working for the bank for many years. Our team has a good bond and we regularly go out for lunch together on Friday's and go out after work for social events.

Yes

There is a clear strategy to help apprentices develop and progress within the bank. There are many benefits available to employees such as dental insurance, health care, bike to work schemes, discount on shopping etc which is rewarding. Although the banking sector doesn't have a great reputation, it is good to be a part of rebuilding that reputation and I feel that I make an impact on this each day. I have made some great relationships within my direct team as well as other parts of the bank and have great support around me.

There are many fantastic opportunities within the bank. Be confident and prepared for the interview. It helps to make notes so that you have examples ready to share if asked. The bank uses a STAR framework (situation, task, analysis, result) so it is a good idea to prepare this before the interview. Display good body language and stay calm throughout the application process - you will be required to do a video interview as well as a face to face interview. Give it your best go and be yourself!