Why did you apply to Deutshe Bank?
I was inspired to apply for Deutsche Bank after visiting their Women's Insight Day. I was surrounded by people who were incredibly intelligent, friendly and willing to share their story at the firm. I was also empowered by their diversity initiative and focus on women empowerment which was very important to me in my career pursuits. I applied for the Wealth Management team as I had a huge passion for the fast-changing financial markets and relationship-building and this role allows me to embrace that. Innovation and technology is also key to the ever-changing role of a wealth manager and I aspire to help transform the way Deutsche Bank connects with its clientele, bridge the gap with the younger generation tech-driven clients and utilise technology for better investment decision-making. Also, I was really excited when I saw each floor at Deutsche Bank is filled with a plethora of beautiful art collection!
What was the hardest part of the application process for you?
The most challenging aspect was initially figuring out which area to specialise in the investment bank - Buy side or Sell Side. After dedicating time to research and participated in various networking events e.g. Office insight days, Spring, Bright Network events and speaking to various individuals and mentors, I learned that I was most suited to the Buy Side - Wealth and Asset Management. The assessment centre was also challenging as it was the final stage that determined your success in securing the role. I prepared wholesomely by reaching out to previous interns in my university, thorough research and reading books/articles about the industry and making sure I stay updated with the news everyday. I was very focused from during the recruiting season (September-November) and am really glad the hard work paid off!
How was the process overall, and what was your favourite part?
The process overall was actually my favourite out of all my other applications due to the more "personal" experience. I maintained a positive outlook in working through the whole process - cover letter, psychometric tests, phone interview and assessment centre. My favourite part is actually getting to know the people at Deutsche Bank from the get-go. I remembered I had meaningful conversations with everyone I met in the bank, from the reception, HR coordinator to the interviewers. The assessment centre which consisted of a wealth management individual case study and organisation group case study was also really fun, it was great learning more about the role and how I can add value to the organisation. I loved how the interviewers not only wanted to test my numerical, analytical and commercial awareness but also wanted to get to know me as a person. The conversations were incredibly engaging for me and were in line with my innovative and entrepreneurial mindset!
What are your 3 top tips for students just like you apply to…?
My 3 top tips for securing a role in an investment bank are:
1. Don't fear, just apply and do it early.
- A lot of students including myself was at one stage thinking " I am not clicking the submit button until I am ready." Trust your capabilities, do sufficient preparation and submit it as many places are on a rolling basis. The quicker you get a reply, interview, assessment centre, the more spaces available for you. However, this doesn't mean blindly submitting an application. It is extremely important to personalise your CV/application/ cover letter to every organisation (Get someone to review it for any mistakes, 30sec view rule for CV), practice psychometric tests (I used JobTestPrep) and reach out to alumni, previous interns and participate in networking events to understand what differentiates the organisation you're applying to.
2. Follow the markets everyday, especially innovation.
- The interviewers are able to differentiate applicants who just started reading the news on the week of their assessment centre/interview, compared to applicants who has been following the markets, news and politics. I feel its important to read not only about what's happening in the financial industry but also other sectors as they are all interlinked and understand how this impact to the economy and the organisation/division you applied to. To any division you are applying to, make sure you very familiar with the latest updates and news about the industry. This be very helpful in interview discussion and group case study rounds as you can demonstrate your commercial awareness and stand out from the group.
3. Be yourself.
- Embrace your best self and showcase your personality. I believe this is what differentiates a successful candidate. During the assessment centre, I was very enthusiastic, friendly, focused, confident and always had a smile on my face no matter how challenging the day was. Remember during interviews, "the airport test" - don't forget the small talk, be professional, friendly and build a relationship with your interviewer as they are also trying to see if you can fit in well with the team (Imagine if they have to spend hours in an airport with you, would you be a person that is interesting enough to keep up a conversation). I remembered in one of my interviews, we were talking about my experience of teaching Zumba and joked how we can host a talent show with the wealth management team at Deutsche Bank! And finally, ask questions at the end, they are not only interviewing you but you are interviewing the bank to see if the culture and organisation fits you. It is a two-way street for a successful professional engagement. So don't fret if you did not get the role, a wise friend shared this with me "It's not rejection, it's redirection". Don't give up and do as many personalised applications to as many organisations as possible - every experience count and will definitely help your next one!