Ready to kick-start your career? It's even better with the right support!
One thing is certain: remote advisory services are on the rise. It’s also an exciting profession that’s constantly evolving, and one that requires proper support. Grégory experienced this first-hand after finishing his studies. Here’s a look back at his first few months in a remote advisory centre at BNP Paribas Fortis.
Starting your first job can be exciting, but also a bit stressful. It raises questions like, will I be up to the job? Can I use the skills I learned at university? Who will help me if I need it?
After graduating, Grégory asked himself the same questions when he landed a job as a commercial advisor at BNP Paribas Fortis' Easy Banking Centre (EBC) in 2016. The EBC is a remote agency accessible by phone, email and videoconference.
Targeted support
“To be clear, I knew absolutely nothing about being a commercial advisor when I was hired, but the challenge really appealed to me,” recalls Grégory. Fortunately, he was able to benefit from targeted support from trainers, his manager and colleagues. This was perfect for quickly gaining experience and specific skills while building his network.
“For the first few weeks, I went through a series of theoretical training sessions that were essential for my new role. It was intense but really interesting. I learnt the basics of being a commercial consultant, starting with how to conduct an interview with a client,” he explains.
Daily exchange
Once he had this initial foundation, it was time to put it into practice. “There's always a bit of anxiety during the first meetings with clients, but that's part of the learning process,” says Grégory. He was also able to count on the unwavering support of his manager and colleagues.
“In the first few weeks, I had regular meetings with my manager, which were opportunities for discussion and individual coaching,” he explains. “I had a lot of questions, but I'm glad I asked them as soon as I had the chance - it helped me progress quickly.”
And for the little tips and tricks of the trade, all he had to do was ask his neighbour... “I got a lot of support from my colleagues. That's the advantage of working at the Easy Banking Centre: you're never isolated, you're always sharing and learning on the job! It's really enriching”.
What does Grégory like about his job? “It's the combination of consulting and digital expertise. It's also a very topical role, evolving with client behaviour and expectations,” he replies. “We advise clients remotely, but we're a long way from the call centres of 20 years ago. Our expertise is a real added value: we support clients at every key moment in their lives and help them achieve their goals. In a way, we're their financial coach.
Ready for the future
Year after year, Grégory builds on his skills and acquires new expertise, allowing him to broaden his professional horizons. Today, he is a Private Banker at James, advising individual clients on the management of their assets, still within the Easy Banking Centre. “If I'm where I am today, it's clearly because of the support I've received at every stage of my career. Of course, you have to be curious, take the plunge and put your heart and soul into your job, but the recognition is well worth it,” he concludes.
What about you?
Are you interested in being advisor? Are you comfortable with new technologies and enjoy working in a team? Your personal journey at the Easy Banking Centre is about to begin. It starts here!