Insight attendee Review

There were many different aspects to the day, including business games that were both stretching and enjoyable. There were the obvious sections of the day filled with information but these were split up with networking breaks. All in all there was a real emphasis on the experience being both informative and enjoyable.

The event had the feel that it was put together very well. Even though there were many attendees to the event organiser, each person was more than happy to help, with them being just as interested in you as you may be in them and the bank. I met several people in a friendly environment.

Although the event only lasted a day, it really did give a sense of what skills that I would need to develop further in my approach to applying for jobs and fitting into the workforce. This has helped with writing CVs, knowing what the bank are looking for in applicants; and made me realise the level of team work and motivation required for a job in the bank.

The structure was very clear and well thought through. There were breaks in-between each section of the day, filled with networking or general coffee breaks. Even though it was the bank's first attempt of hosting this event, you couldn't tell! Each so called 'boring' information filled slide show section was sandwiched between games and Q&A.

Generally, there was a relaxed atmosphere, I never felt under pressure in any situation. My advice would be to go along with an open mind and a relaxed approach with a view to get as much out of the day as possible!

Obviously over just one day it is hard to give a high rating for this. However, the organisers and bank's workers seemed genuinely enthusiastic about making sure everyone had a good experience, answering any questions you may have. I felt like they really wanted to give us attendees the inside information that could really help with applications to graduate roles and internships. It was just hard to invest on a greater level over the course of a day.

The networking helped with this. There were several opportunities set out to ask the workers from different sections of the company about there roles and day to day workload. This ranged from monetary policy teams to fiscal policy to HR. There was also a Q&A session in the afternoon with lots of interesting questions asked and answers given. I came away from the day satisfied that I knew what I wanted and needed to know for when I start applying for internships at the bank. Again, this was limited in the sense that we never went into the office space as it was a day event

On a basic level, it helped me decide that I will be applying to the bank for an internship as I was impressed by the day and the feel of the firm. It is the type of firm I would like to work for as workers seem satisfied. However, I will also be keeping my options open and applying to other, similar firms.

The bank have promised to reimburse my expenses up to a certain amount. However, this maximum reimbursement was not even half the travel fee I incurred to attend the day as I live outside London. Also, a month and a half later I am yet to receive the money. I have emailed the HR department on the matter and I hope it is resolved soon!

The bank catered for networking very well. Over lunch, in afternoon breaks and after the event many of the bank's workers came to the event and were only too happy to answer questions. They were very honest, friendly and actually interested in the attendees too. Have lots of questions prepared and do not be scared for email addresses to help get a foothold in the firm. I got two employees email addresses.

As above, networking opportunities were near perfect. I not only met many employees but also event attendees.

There seemed to be many events and exclusive facilities for employees to use. This involved a gym, tennis courts and events like BBQs. They seemed to be for a reasonable price too. The employees emphasised this more than the organisers which is always a good sign!! However, I am not sure how this compares to other similar sized firms.

Personally, I left the event after having a great time, fun and informative, with it clear in my mind that I will apply for an internship with the bank. I had the feel that the firm was right for me and I was given enough information to know that the work they do would greatly interest me. Although this may not be the case for everyone, I think this insight day will give you enough information to make a decision on this.