With FO banking role being the flavour of the month, we tend to receive many resumes whenever we post an opening. Logistically it is challenging to interview more than 10 or so persons.

Here's some of the defining characteristics which stand out when we review resumes to select interviewees-
- relevant internships with prestigious firms (proves the candidate knows what he/she is in for from a work expectation, working hours etc perspective & as a qc check as well cos its not easy to get these internship)

- first class honours (upper 2nd ok if other traits are spectacular)

- track record of academic success (spectacular A lvl results, RJC/HC etc, prior scholarships)

- standout performance in cca (national lvl sportsman, president scout, student council president, etc)

- international contest winner for relevant topic

Of course, not all candidates will have all of the above, but many will have 3 to 5 of the above traits, with the internships being perhaps most important, with academics closely behind, then CCA after. Exceptional CCA performance may get you a look as well.

To be honest, we are very impressed with many of the people we are unable to interview, but the degree of competition out there is mind boggling. Suspect its because the media has really played up FO banking jobs in recent years so there is more interest these days.

Hope this helps.

Rgds