Significant Career Lesson From a Capital Risk Executive at a Major Bank
Ryan, a Capital Risk Management Executive, learned early in a banking career that "it pays to execute flawlessly on whatever work you're given," even if it seems menial, as mastering the small tasks leads to bigger opportunities. Furthermore, Ryan advises to "definitely volunteer" for projects that align with skillsets, even outside immediate responsibilities, as this can lead to valuable experience and connections, helping to advance a career.
Career Development, Entry-Level, Actionable Tips, Real-World Examples, Volunteering
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Ryan Almquist
Capital Risk Management Executive
Major North American Bank
Wake Forest University
N/A
Business Management & Admin
Finance (Banking, Fintech, Investing)
Strategic Management and Executive
Video Highlights
1. Flawless execution on assigned tasks, even if seemingly menial, is crucial for career advancement. Demonstrating competence in smaller responsibilities leads to more challenging and rewarding assignments.
2. Don't be discouraged if your initial job doesn't fully utilize your degree. Focus on mastering fundamental tasks as a foundation for future growth.
3. Actively volunteer for projects that align with your skills, even if outside your core responsibilities. This proactive approach can lead to valuable experience and networking opportunities with future managers.
Transcript
What is one lesson that you've learned that has proven significant in your career?
One lesson I learned earlier on was when I joined my first bank. Pretty shortly thereafter, I learned that it pays to execute flawlessly on whatever work you're given.
In an entry-level job, you may not always be given work that stretches you. It might be a little more menial at times. But if you show your manager that you can do the small things well, you'll start to get better and better assignments and grow that way.
So, don't get discouraged if you're not fully leveraging your degree in your job. That will come at some point, but first and foremost, you've got to do the small things well.
As an extension of that, I would also recommend volunteering if you see something you think you'd be good at. One way I helped move my career forward in my first job was, I saw a project that came up that used the skillset I developed in my internship very well.
I raised my hand to get involved with that, and I worked with the lady who became one of my future managers. So, I'd say definitely think about ways outside of your specific job responsibilities that you can contribute, because it might help you down the line.
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