Interview Tips

Interviews are the most effective way for us to get to know one another. Here are some tips to give you more confidence, so you can be your best on the day.

Before your interview

SHOW US

We want to know the real you, so tell us about what motivates you and drives your interest in finance; share with us why your skills and experience fit the role you are applying for. And remember, there are no right or wrong answers

KNOW US

You should aim to get a good understanding of our business before you meet us for the first time. The best place to start is our corporate website, but you should also keep up to date with the latest trends and developments in the financial sector in general

Make sure you have fully read and understood the job description of the role you are applying for. By demonstrating to us that you have researched your role, you are also showcasing your enthusiasm about finance, our organisation and your business function.

ALIGN

Our business has four core values and a graduate competency framework. We will ask you competency-based questions so we can get to know you better. Relate your experiences using our STAR framework:

Situation/Task: What was required? Remember to set the scene. Action: What did you do? Be sure to tell us why you took that action. Result: What happened and what did you learn?

PRACTICE

Ensure that you rehearse answers to common interview questions.

During your interview

SHOW US

We want to hear your thoughts and opinions. It’s perfectly normal to feel nervous, and don’t worry if you need a moment or two to think about your answers. We’d rather hear a response that is concise and well structured with specific examples, rather than something irrelevant or memorised. Make sure you listen to each question, and don’t be afraid to ask us to repeat if anything is unclear.

BE ENTHUSIASTIC

Depending on the role, there may be several rounds of interviews. If this happens, remember that all interviews are equally important – regardless of whether they are technical, with HR or with a line manager. No two meetings will have the same interviewers, so show us your passion constantly.

BE PREPARED

Come prepared to ask us questions regarding the bank, business area or the role itself. If you are offered the job, make sure you can make an informed decision by fully understanding our business and culture.

BE YOURSELF

Share with us your honest thoughts and experiences. We want to know about why you applied to ensure that you will engage well with the role, and are committed to being part of our growth story.

After your interview

DID YOU GET THE INFORMATION YOU NEEDED?

By the end of the interview, the person you were talking to will have enough information to make a decision about your application. You too should have a clear vision about our business and the position you are applying for, so that you can also make a decision about the offer. If not, ask.

THANK THE INTERVIEWER

After the interview, send a follow up email to your interviewer to thank them for their time. Also remember that this is a final chance to ask any other questions or provide more information.

EVERY CANDIDATE IS IMPORTANT

If you haven’t been shortlisted for the role you wanted, we’ll keep your application in our system. If a more suitable role comes up, we’ll get in touch.

FAQs

Eligibility

What are the minimum application requirements and GPA level?

Possess GPA of 3.3 out of 4.0 or above (or equivalent) in any discipline.

Demonstrate methodical, logical, solution-driven initiatives, with commercial awareness and a keen interest in latest finance topics as well as market trends.

Do I need a specific degree discipline in order to apply?

Apply as a recent graduate, final year undergraduate, or master’s student in any discipline.

Must be fluent in spoken and written English (additional languages are considered an advantage).

Can I apply if I need a work permit?

We welcome applications from students of all nationalities, but visa restrictions may apply depending on your country of origin.

I did an internship with you previously; will I be considered automatically for the Graduate Programme in my final year?

Yes, our internships are a central part of our recruitment process. Each year we hire interns with a view to considering them for full time roles after graduation. An internship is both your and our way of deciding whether we are suitable for each other for permanent employment.

Selection criteria

Can anyone apply for a graduate role?

Our graduate programme is intended for people who have recently completed their studies and are looking for their first full time job. If you have post-qualification work experience (apart from internships or short term assignments), you might be more suitable for one of our experienced hire roles. Visit our main careers section to find out more.

What criteria do you use to select applicants?

Our candidate evaluation process is objective, which means all applicants have an equal chance when competing for positions. We evaluate each person against 8 graduate competencies, which are aligned with our driving forces. You will undergo assessments to measure your suitability for the role. These include an online numerical test and interviews. 

Click here to take a look at our competency framework. 

Can I prepare for the tests?

You can practise for the numerical reasoning test by logging on to http://www.shl.com/TryATest/default.aspx. Other than that, the only preparation necessary is a good night’s sleep.

Application

Can I apply to more than one business area or location?

When you apply, you will have to specify one location and business area (such as Global Markets in Singapore). However, you can indicate if you are happy for us to consider you for a different role if the original role has been filled, or we think your skills are better suited elsewhere.

Can I apply for positions outside Asia Pacific?

Yes, you can. Please visit the EMEA or US recruiting websites for more information.

When do I need to submit my application by, and how?

Applications open in November for the following year’s intake for both Summer Interns and Graduates. We encourage you to take note of the specific job closing date and submit your application at your soonest convenience in order to kick off our assessment and selection process.

How long does it take to apply?

Most people take about an hour, but you can save your application and return to it as many times as you like.

What is the assessment process like?

Click here to take a look at our assessment process.

How many rounds will I have to attend?

Usually, it’s two or three, but this can vary depending on business area and location.

What if I’m studying overseas during the interview period?

In most cases, we will arrange a telephone or a video interview for you.

How will you notify me of my application status?

We will contact you via email or telephone.

Miscellaneous questions

How long is the APAC Graduate Programme?

For all graduate hires, the Graduate Development Plan lasts for 24 months. At the end of this period, we expect that you will automatically continue employment with us.

Is it possible to relocate overseas?

We are a global organisation with offices in 74 countries worldwide. Depending on your business area, there are often opportunities to travel or relocate.