In the past, people looked for jobs in banks because banking used to be a stable industry. Nowadays, people look at banking and finance from a different perspective. It is now a fast-moving, demanding, but also well-rewarded industry.

No Pain, No Gain
Some people may think that they can earn easy money in this industry. But if we take a look at the career development of Jeslie Chui, Senior Treasury Product Manager, Bank of China (Hong Kong), we find that much time and effort is needed if one wants to be successful in this industry.

Chui says, “Job seekers who want to develop a career in banking and finance need to have commitment and set a clear goal.” He advises people without relevant working experience to begin in junior positions and to get professional qualifications as early as possible. “SFC Paper 1 & 4, IIQE Paper 1, 3 & 5, and MPF are the basic qualifications required.” A non-finance university graduate, Chui spent years preparing for a career in banking and finance. Now, he has obtained most professional qualifications for the finance sector. In addition, he possesses three master’s degrees and is studying for another one on China business laws. Chui is the author of 15 books mainly on different investment products.

“Commitment, hardworking attitude, long-term vision are essential qualities for people to join this industry, “ says Chui, adding that banking and finance professionals have to be proactive and like to meet and communicate with people.

Broaden Your Horizons
Although working in the banking and finance industry is not an easy job, engaging in this industry allows one to broaden one’s horizons. Chui points out that job seekers can join the industry in three routes – in banks, insurance field or as independent financial advisors. “Frontline sales staff are in the highest demand.” In terms of product knowledge, working in banks will expose you to a wide product range, whereas working in insurance field or as independent financial advisors will allow you to specialize mainly in insurance products and investment products respectively.

Get Set, Go
Chui expects the developments in this industry in Hong Kong to be promising in the near future even if the economy of the U.S. may not be good. He advises job seekers who want to join the industry to consider the branding and product range of the company, as well as support and training the company provides.

“In interviews, employers usually look for product knowledge and market sense in job candidates. So, job seekers should enhance their product know-how,” says Chui, adding that there are so many investment products and tools available on the market now and therefore job seekers, especially those who want to join as frontline staff, should learn these products.

Chui comments that engaging in this industry is like running a marathon. “You may not be able to catch up if you stop for a while. And you have a long way to go. So, job seekers have to find out if they are suitable to work in this industry. Once you have decided to join, you have to prepare for your career and equip yourself with relevant knowledge and skills.”