We caught up with Bright Network member Frankie Turner to discuss her experience of securing a graduate role at Insight Investment. Read her story and top tips below.
Why Insight Investment?
I first found out about Insight Investment on Bright Network’s website. After looking into the company more I found out that it had many of the aspects I look for in a company. From my research I found that the company appeared to have a very inclusive culture which was very integrated on all levels meaning there would be an opportunity for me to interact with senior members of staff from day one as well as being part of a very supportive company which allows graduates to do well.
This role in particular appealed to me because it is rotational. I like the fact that I will get to experience different roles within the firm straight away since this will allow me a much stronger viewpoint from which to decide where the right permanent role is for me.
What was the hardest part of the process?
I think the toughest part of the application process is the fact that the assessment centre is set over two days. Although, there were more informal parts such as a drinks reception in Greenwich, it is still quite an intense process. Luckily for me, everyone at Insight Investment was very welcoming and encouraging which made the process much less daunting.
What did you enjoy most?
My favourite part of the application process was the evening spent at the Greenwich Planetarium. It was great to get to spend an evening in such an interesting place but Insight Investment also made sure there were a lot of members of senior management, including the CEO, there for us to talk to and ask questions in a more informal setting than in the assessments the next day. Being able to get to meet those who have worked at Insight Investment for a long time really enabled me to get a feel for the company’s culture and made me much more relaxed for the next day’s assessments. It was a great way to start the process.
Were you surprised by anything in the process?
For me, the most surprising thing was how much Insight Investment value the opportunity to meet the potential graduates and get to know them as much as possible on the assessment centre. There were so many members of staff involved in the day and they made such a big effort to talk to all of us. In other application processes I’ve been a part of there hasn’t been this kind of interaction with employees and it made me see how much Insight Investment want you to be a good fit for their culture as well as the role. It was the relaxed and interesting conversations that I had with members of the company that made me realise this was the company that I felt was right for me.
What three top tips would you give to graduates applying now?
Tip 1: Be prepared
Doing significant research into the company is very important. Companies like you to know how much you know about them and about the news and current affairs they’re involved in. It’s also a great way to start a list of questions to ask and get an initial feel for whether this company is right for you. Bright Network’s Employer Profiles are very useful for this.
Tip 2: Ask questions
I know it sounds cliché but interviews and assessment centres are a great way for you to get to know the company as well as for them to get to know you. Asking questions and talking to a lot of people can help you to see whether you’ll fit in with the company culture and also really demonstrates how interested you are in the role.
Tip 3: Only apply for the roles you can see yourself enjoying
Companies can tell whether you’re truly interested in them and the role you’ve applied for. If your research into the company doesn’t make you more interested in them and excited to find out more then maybe it isn’t the right job for you. It’s so important to be happy and comfortable in your job, don’t panic and get bogged down trying to apply to as many roles as possible. Apply for those you really want and your enthusiasm will come out in your application making you a much stronger candidate.
Discover more about Insight Investment and their career opportunities here.