Don Said:

I am interested to pursue a career in Retail Banking, what course or program do I take in school?

We Answered:

Finance, Accounting, Marketing, Business Law

Adrian Said:

What careers are good for someone with banking experience?

We Answered:

If you are definitely changing industries; look for one that is growing. Every industry needs Sales first; without it there is no revenue.

The banking industry is in consolidation (fewer companies and positions). However if you are set on banking, compliance is the way to go. Ever since de-regulation, the junk bond era, mortgage defaults, and bak failures; the demand for this skill is increasing. After all the govt does not want to own the big banks, so they are in the middle of increasing regulation and oversight.

An MBA helps put you on a level playing field with other applicants. Once you make up your mind look for other credentials or licenses that are in line with your specialty. Get in touch with other professionals in the field to get more info.

If you do sales in banking, you would be qualified to work at other financial institutions (brokerage houses).

Dolores Said:

What is the best retail bank to work for as far as compensation and career development and advancement?

We Answered:

Start your own Local Bank. You sound like you may have the skills and knowledge necessary to do this. Most of the regional banks seem to be rather tight on employment right now, and as such may not be a good immediate move.

Doing your own Bank, or really business, is the best way to move forward financially. Just have to be willing to take the step.

Derrick Said:

How beneficial is the CFA designation in switching careers?

We Answered:

From my experience, it might help a bit, but I would say a MBA from a good BSchool should do the job. There are plenty of level 2 and 3 candidates working in Retail Banking and in the same position than you. The competition is insane for IB, Hedge Funds and PM jobs.

The best way to start in the business is to know people in those firms and try to get an internship. IB is like the Mafia, the only way you can make it is to know people and do all the dirty job (like working 80h/week). Just doing the CFA won't open any door.

Ethel Said:

Is it any good working for a retail bank as a customer advisor?

We Answered:

Hi!

Yeah, if all you want is someone on your back 24/7 wanting to know why you didn't sell the little 85 year old lady - who wanted to know your opening hours - a pension!!

Seriously, many years ago I worked for a major Building Society as a Customer Advisor, and everything was based on selling (or rather mis-selling) products to anyone and everyone whether they needed it or not.

Also, you need to be a major a*sehole to get promotion (and I've worked with a load of 'em), so if you're one - then you're well on your way!!

Hope this helps!!!

Carolyn Said:

How I can find a part time position in a retail bank?

We Answered:

I suspect that you will find this difficult. There are a lot of regulations over working directly with the public for a financial institution and they tend to use full time staff for weekend working so ensure high quality. Nevertheless you have a right to ask and I would go to a bank branch near you (one for each main bank) and ask for the contact details for personnel and ring them.