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 Can you give our readers a quick snap shot of your job right now?
I am a customer service speacialist at the Commonwealth Bank.
Basically, I do everything the tellers don't do.
I take care of business accounts, loans, credit cards, term deposits and insurance. I also make sure that needs of our valued customers are met.
Were did you start your career in the Banking Industry?
I studied year 12 at Bendigo High School and went on to study Advanced Diploma in Bussiness Marketing at RMIT University. After RMIT I completed a Bachelor of Business Marketing at Victoria University.
I began working in an accounts role as I found it hard to find jobs after I graduated from Victoria University. I stayed in that role for 18 months.
While I was working in the accounts role I got my Agents Rep in realastate. After I got my license I was offered a job in the realestate which I absolutely loved.
I stayed in the realestate only for 6 months as the hours were really long and I had to work on weekends as well. I decided to work in a steady job with set hours.
After that I began working for the Commonwealth Bank which is where I am still currently working.
What was your real motivation for working in the banking?
I always found banking interesting.
I think working at a bank there is always room to move and progress your career.
There is also alot of ongoing training, so you are constantly aquiring new skills.
What are the key challenges for those interested in entering the banking and finance industry?
You have to be motivated all of the time and you have to enjoy working with people from diverse backgrouds.
Is there a difference based upon gender?
No, there is no difference.
What do you think are the key skills a person interested in getting into banking and finance needs?
You need to be number sensitive, good at maths and have good interpersonal skills.
When you are dealing with peoples' money you need to be very accurate with your key strokes because any inaccuracies can lead to mistakes in peoples' accounts.
So you need to be very thorough and accurate. You also need to have a good memory for numbers.
What are the key subjects that young people need to concentrate on if they are thinking about one day studying or working in the banking and finance?
Maths and business based subjects.
What can parents do to assist their children in business areas - even when parents may not have a business background?
Parents can send their children to university. However a university degree is not compulsary to work in a bank but it can certainly help when you reach higher levels through promotions.
Parents can support their children in the decisions that they make as well.
What is the key business message you would give young persons today?
Do what makes you happy.
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