The theme for 2023 is ‘skills for life’ and is all about showcasing how apprenticeships can give young people the tools they need to successfully navigate the workplace.
For over ten years the CISI has been supporting young people through apprenticeships, which, says CISI CEO Tracy Vegro OBE, "have an important part to play in the future of financial services, helping build the UK’s future workforce and providing the necessary skills and talent refresh."
At CISI headquarters we’re lucky to have three keen young apprentices currently working with us. Najibah and Nevaeh work in our customer services team and have been with us for three months. They answer customer queries by email, phone, and live chat. Najibah is taking a business administration course alongside her role. Toby works in HR and has been with us for just over a month. He liaises with interview candidates, agencies, and hiring managers, and helps with longer-term projects. He is studying the level 3 Fundamentals of Financial Services, and his level 3 HR support qualification.
They have all gained valuable experience and were happy to share why they had chosen to join the CISI and what they have learned.
What drew you to the finance sector?
Toby: I’m intrigued by the way the world revolves around money. It’s a key factor in daily life. Although I don’t intend on having a career in finance, I am really enjoying my time in human resources.
Nevaeh: It is closely connected to everything we do. There also seems to be an increase in international jobs available in this sector, and the potential for career progression is very appealing.
Najibah: I previously studied economics and business and I have always had an interest in finance. I hope to be able to continue my venture into the sector, but I would also like to explore different fields.
What skills have you learned during your time here?
Najibah: I have already become more adaptable with learning how to navigate inboxes and going through the standard operating procedures. I also feel I have improved my soft skills, like understanding how to interact with customers in a professional manner.
Toby: I’m picking up organisational and interpersonal skills as well as the ability to work to deadlines. I intend to have a career in HR and these skills will be fundamental in this field for tasks like setting up interviews, and liaising with candidates and colleagues.
Nevaeh: The main skill I have learned is structured discipline. I have developed a routine that can vastly benefit me in the future with the way I work. I have also improved my interpersonal skills with how I communicate and adapt. I must also say I have proudly built on sector knowledge by studying for my level 3 Fundamentals of Financial Services qualification.
What do you enjoy most about your apprenticeship?
Najibah: I am always learning something new, whether it’s through my job role or the business administration course. Once I complete a task independently, it feels very rewarding to see the progress I have made.
Nevaeh: I love working on one of our inboxes which deals with organising resources for the Africa regions. Other perks include my co-workers, the HQ location, and treats I have received!
Toby: One of the best things about being here is the people. Everyone has been so helpful and generous with their time.
What are some of the challenges you have faced?
Nevaeh: For me, it’s keeping conversations on track. When taking calls, people want information and not a long chat, which is hard for me to do as I am very talkative.
Najibah: Initially it was overcoming the idea that I am going to make mistakes. I sometimes set unrealistic expectations for myself but I realise that part of being an apprentice is that you can always ask for help and you won’t be judged. I now feel more confident with my work thanks to my team’s help.
Toby: I am quite introverted and I do not always like being decisive because I am nervous about the consequences of making a mistake. However, while being here, I have been able to push through this fear and I am quite proud of that.
What developments would you like to see in the sector going forward?
Nevaeh: I hope to see it become more sustainable and helpful. To me this means sharing advice more openly, spreading the wealth, and educating youth about financial services like debt management and so on.
Would you recommend taking an apprenticeship at the CISI?
Nevaeh: Yes. This is a place where you feel inspired and can find your calling. An environment like the CISI means you can just walk into the CEO’s office and ask for help. Honestly, just be yourself. If it is something that you really want to do to get ahead of your peers, just do it. You are young and you have time to figure it out.
Toby: To people contemplating an apprenticeship, I say just do it. It helps you get into an industry that you might otherwise find difficult to enter.
Najibah: Yes, but make sure you choose a field you have a passion for. Talk to a variety of people, attend apprenticeship fairs, and join programmes where you can get shortlisted to find out more about industries that offer them.