13 Ways to Write a Resume for a Banking Job
1. Choose the right format: Opt for a reverse-chronological resume format, which has a strong focus on your work experience and education. This format is widely accepted and preferred by recruiters for its clear and concise structure.
2. Create a professional summary: Begin your resume with a short, yet powerful professional summary. Mention your years of experience, expertise in banking, and key achievements to immediately grab the attention of the reader.
3. Use relevant keywords: Incorporate industry-specific terms and phrases throughout your resume. This will not only enhance its readability but also facilitate an easier navigation for applicant tracking systems (ATS).
4. Highlight accomplishments: Emphasize your main accomplishments in each job position you held by using concrete, measurable results. Quantify these achievements whenever possible to create a greater impact.
5. Tailor your resume: Customize your resume for each banking job application by tweaking the skills, experience, and qualifications sections to closely match the job requirements.
6. Showcase your banking expertise: List all relevant banking products and services you have handled, such as transactions, loans, credit management, cash management, or customer service.
7. Include certifications: Outline any additional certifications relevant to the banking industry like FINRA licenses or financial analysis certificates that demonstrate your dedication to ongoing learning.
8. Keep it concise: Keep your resume’s length no longer than two pages – you want it to be easily readable while still showcasing all vital information.
9. Use action verbs: Start bullet points with strong action verbs like “managed,” “developed,” “achieved,” or “improved” to demonstrate proactive contributions in previous roles.
10. Prioritize transferrable skills: If you are making a career shift towards the banking industry or have limited experience in this field, emphasize transferrable soft skills like problem-solving, communication, and organization abilities.
11. Education section: Highlight your degree(s) and any banking or finance-related coursework that demonstrates your knowledge of the industry. Also, mention any relevant internships or capstone projects.
12. Professional affiliations: Consider including memberships with professional organizations, such as the American Bankers Association (ABA) or the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, to indicate your commitment to the banking profession.
13. Proofread thoroughly: Before submitting your resume, double-check for any spelling or grammatical mistakes. A polished resume radiates professionalism, leaving a lasting impression on potential employers.