How to Move from Back Office to Front Office + GIVEAWAY WORTH OVER £1,350!

Summary

In this video, Alison Hyken offers valuable advice for individuals looking to transition from the back or middle office to front office roles in investment banking. Key tips include strategically applying to multiple divisions, focusing on operations and risk for easier transitions, networking effectively, and being patient. Alison also emphasizes the importance of outperforming in your current role and highlights the opportunity to upskill through Financial Edge Training, which offers recognized certification programs. Additionally, viewers can enter a giveaway for a chance to win access to these career-boosting courses.

Takeaways

• 😀 Diversify your applications by applying to both front and back office roles to increase your chances of securing an offer.
• 😀 Research different investment bank divisions that align with your skills and interests, instead of basing your decisions on hype or movies.
• 😀 Working in the back office can be a strategic first step, especially if you aim to move to the front office later.
• 😀 Back office roles like operations and risk are more closely connected to front office positions and provide a natural pathway for transition.
• 😀 Being a top performer in your current role is crucial for standing out when applying for front office roles later on.
• 😀 The first 2-3 years of your career are a time for exploration—don’t worry if you’re not immediately in your dream role.
• 😀 Keep an eye on your company’s internal mobility portals for job openings, as these often appear before external job postings.
• 😀 Networking across different divisions of the bank is vital for learning about new opportunities and increasing your chances of moving to the front office.
• 😀 To prove you're ready for a front office role, invest in upskilling by taking relevant online courses like those offered by Financial Edge Training.
• 😀 Take advantage of career development opportunities like online finance certifications to improve your profile and enhance your chances of breaking into front office roles.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video?

The video focuses on providing advice for individuals looking to transition from a back office or middle office role to a front office position in investment banking.

Is it possible to move from the back office to the front office in investment banking?

Yes, it is definitely possible. With a strategic approach and patience, individuals can move from back office or middle office roles into front office positions.

What is the first tip for securing a front office role?

The first tip is to apply strategically. Don't just apply to one division like trading or investment banking, but diversify your applications to both front office and back office or middle office roles. This will increase your chances of getting an offer.

Why is it recommended to apply to multiple divisions in an investment bank?

Applying to multiple divisions allows you to diversify your chances of securing an internship or job offer. Even if you don't land a front office role, securing a position in a back office or middle office role can still help you transition into the front office later.

Which back office divisions are best suited for those wanting to transition to the front office?

The two key divisions that are most connected to front office roles are operations and risk. These areas work closely with the front office, making them ideal starting points for a later transition.

Why are operations and risk departments ideal for transitioning to front office roles?

Both operations and risk management have direct interactions with the front office. Working in these areas gives you exposure to the front office's processes and culture, making it easier to transition when the opportunity arises.

How long does it typically take to transition from back office to front office?

It usually takes around two to three years to transition from a back office or middle office role to a front office position. It's important to be patient and strategic during this time.

What should individuals do to increase their chances of being hired for front office roles?

Individuals should aim to outperform in their current back office or middle office role. Being a top performer makes you a more attractive candidate for front office opportunities when they become available.

What role does internal mobility play in transitioning to the front office?

Internal mobility is crucial for identifying front office opportunities early. Many positions are posted internally first, giving employees who keep an eye on the internal portal a head start in applying.

Why is networking important when transitioning to a front office role?

Networking is essential because it can help you learn about new opportunities and make connections with people in the front office. Strong relationships with individuals across different divisions can open doors to new roles.

How can Financial Edge Training help individuals looking to transition to the front office?

Financial Edge Training offers recognized online courses that help individuals upskill and demonstrate expertise in finance. Their certifications, which can be added to LinkedIn, make candidates more attractive for front office roles by showcasing their commitment to learning.

What is the giveaway associated with this video?

The giveaway includes free spots in Financial Edge Training’s investment banking micro-degree program and asset management courses. Participants can win by liking the video, following Financial Edge on Instagram, and commenting on the video with their desired course and why they deserve it.