We caught up with Sam after he secured a brilliant internship working for First Wealth and how he used networking to secure his dream role!
Why did you want to work for First Wealth?
There are a couple of reasons. I really liked their forward-thinking attitude to wealth management and financial planning. I could tell from their social media and blog posts that they were not the average and dull financial advisory firm that many, especially of my age, think of when you picture the industry stereotype. Also, being an SME meant that I woulld have greater exposure to clients as well as greater contact with key members of the team who could help me progress and learn faster than being in a large company where most wouldn’t even know my name.
How important was networking in securing your summer internship with First Wealth?
It was so important! When I was in my first year, I attended a few events held by the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investments because I knew that a room full of people already established in their careers would be perfect to speak with about my ambitions and what opportunities they might be able to offer. It is surprising how many people are more than happy to help you if you just get talking to them outside of a forced networking event at university and build a rapport.
How did Bright Network help in securing your internship?
Bright Network post loads of information about different career paths and what each one is actually like. I found this really useful to get an idea of what I may or may not be interested in during year 13 and my first year of university.
What 3 top tips do you have for other members?
- Network with everyone you can - You will never know how much someone can help you if you don’t speak to them!
- Commercial awareness - I know it sounds cliché but being aware of what’s happening and being able to contribute to a discussion not only helps you get a foot into the conversation but also shows you are thinking about things outside of just university life.
- Work experience - Getting work experience at a few investment management companies in the summer of my first year was so helpful when it came to making decisions about where to apply for internships. It also gives you experiences to talk about in future conversations.
