CMB Intern Review

The work I did over the course of the placement gave me a valuable insight into the day to day operation of the bank and how it interacts with its customers. I did a variety of tasks as well as taking part in a project designed specifically for the interns.

I worked for my line manager but as part of a wider team. I was made to feel very valued on day one and appreciated the effort they put in to make me feel at ease, especially at the beginning when it can be overwhelming. I made good bonds with the team around me and got the opportunity to network outside it.

My line manager set out a plan for me at the beginning of my internship and then changed it according to what I wanted to achieved later on in the placement. This meant that I had control over what I worked on and was able to achieve the goals I set myself.

I undertook enough work to feel like I was busy and constantly had tasks to do however I did not at any point feel too busy or under stress to finish anything. My team were very accommodating to what I had going on at any one time and so I was able to balance everything very well.

This greatly depends on the manager you are given, however I was set work by various members of the team which meant that I had a great deal more responsibility than the other interns I knew. I also believe that the internship gives you the opportunity to seek more or less responsibility depending on how much you ask for it.

As well as gaining technical skills relating to the finance sector, I have also learnt a wide range of softer skills that come from working at a corporation as large as HSBC. I improved my teamwork and networking skills whilst also improved my professionalism. These skills are so important in the workplace and I am glad that I have gained them.

The atmosphere is very formal and is open plan meaning that you can network very easily. The people are all very cheerful and happy to say hello or help. Although it is all open, the teams are very segregated and people tend to only speak to the people around them.

The placement was very well organised, however it does depend on the plan that your line manager sets out for you. I was able to chose the work that I took on which allowed me to achieve my goals however some other managers were a lot more restrictive in the work that the interns were set.

The company invested highly in the training they gave us, both technically and with the soft skills they equipped us with. We had a two day introduction at the beginning which helped to take the nerves away and a development day in the middle which was a nice way to catch up with the other interns.

The future prospects are appealing and it is very common to see the grads further up in the company. People are keen to continue moving and gain new experiences within the business which shows how driven the people are. A lot of people I encountered have been here for a significant period of time which shows it is a good organisation to work for.

The social scene among the other interns was very good. The organised socials were very enjoyable and there is a strong focus on bonding with your cohort. I was lucky in that I was placed in London, where naturally it was very social, however I should imagine if you are placed out in smaller offices it could become quite lonely.

I worked in London and commuted in from a town outside. This was very expensive and did eat significantly into my wages. I'm not sure that you would comfortably be able to afford accommodation in London on the wage they give you. In other areas however it would probably be acceptable.

Naturally London has a very extensive nightlife and there is something for everyone. I was limited somewhat by the fact that I commute in rather than living in London however I do feel like I saved a considerable amount of money. The nightlife in Birmingham where most of the events are held is also extremely good.

There are plenty of opportunities to get involved in extra activities and HSBC actively encourage it. You do feel like you are contributing to the company but also to charity as well. We did a social responsibility day to raise awareness for Alzheimer's society which was really rewarding and allowed us to give back to the community.