With banks such as Toronto-Dominion Bank holding assets of over 1.7 trillion Canadian dollars, it can be said that the banks in Canada are thriving, and so is the job market. As a result, both long-term and temporary positions are coveted. As an employee, you get some benefits on the finance side, as well as valuable insight into managing your finances. It is also an excellent, specialized role to add to your resume. So it’s only right that we have tips for those looking for banking jobs in Canada.
What Are The Positions In A Bank?
You need first to be aware of the position you should apply for. Each position is different in terms of duties and expertise and rewards uniquely in terms of salary. Therefore, before you opt for a job, analyze your qualifications and which role interests you the most.
Broadly, the roles tend to be:
- Bank Manager – A bachelor’s degree at minimum in fields related to finance.
- Accountant- A bachelor’s degree in financial fields. Best if you have one in accounting.
- Teller- A high school diploma at the least. Your chances of securing a position increases if you have completed your college education.
How To Secure A Banking Job
In addition to your educational qualification, securing a banking job requires you to have a strong resume and, if possible, a previous gig in a similar position. So let’s find out what else you can do to ensure you get that job.
1. Find A Bank Looking For The Role You Want
Start locally by asking people you know or browsing through job websites. You can also create search engine alerts so you will be the first one to know anytime a bank posts a new opening. If you know bank employees, you can ask them whether the firm has any openings.
2. Hit The Apply Button
You have your resume and experience ready. What about that cover letter? Research the firm you are applying for. Look at the kind of jobs the position handles explicitly and the work culture prevalent in the organization. Then, tailor your pitch to it. This would let the employers know you are enthusiastic and passionate about the position.
3. Build Your Brand
Get on those social media sites and start leaving anecdotes about your expertise. If you have an experience similar to the one required for a banking position, relate your story to that. Let professionals notice you and know you are good at your job. Attending events and workshops is also a good idea to get employers to see you.
4. Follow Up
If you don’t get any response after handing over the application, even after two weeks, contact the hiring manager. The wait time is enough that way, and the manager realizes that you are interested in the position. You can further research the position and ensure you are prepared for any technical or interpersonal questions in the waiting period.
Final Thoughts
Anyone looking forward to a bank job should be good with computers and people. If you are disciplined, have an analytical mind, and can multitask, even better. These are the skills your recruiter is looking for, so make sure you develop those.
About the Author
BCjobs.ca is Western Canada’s largest job board, and host of “Innovators” a weekly podcast interviewing top recruiters in BC and across Canada. Check out our recent interview with Justin Laufer, Senior Director of Operations at Carbon60 (Podcast link) and Anna Sainsbury, Chairman and Founder of GeoComply (Podcast link).
