Assessment Criteria
Assets We Value
We invest a lot of time and effort in our recruitment process. Beyond qualifications, we also look at a number of characteristics, as well as the skills orientation of our candidates. We are looking for candidates who will build a career and future with us, therefore the right job fit is critical to you, and to us as a value-orientated organisation.
We measure the abilities of our candidates using a series of competency-based assessments. From the time you send in your application, interact with us in the interviews, to doing your assessment exercises, we will be evaluating your performance and potential as an adviser.
Here are some indicators of the qualities we are looking for:
Communication Ability
Explains and conveys information in a succinct and articulate manner
Influences others and creates a positive impact when interacting with others
Demonstrates an effective and dynamic presentation style
Adaptability and Innovation
Possesses mental agility and ability to think on your feet
Demonstrates flexibility in adapting to changing circumstances
Controls the outcomes of situations
Interpersonal Skills
Connects with people and puts them at ease
Demonstrates a genuine interest in people
Ethical/Professional Behaviour
Demonstrates sound judgement under pressure
Maintains integrity and diplomacy when challenged
Analytical Ability
Analyses problems and accurately interprets outcomes
Selects and uses relevant information to make effective recommendations
Demonstrates ease when working with figures
Organisational Ability
Demonstrates effective time management
Prioritises work commitments
Efficient in administrative record-keeping
Drive and Achievement Orientation
Originates plans and initiates action
Overcomes barriers, failure and criticism
Maintains high level of activity with minimal supervision
Displays determination, effort and enthusiasm in achieving results
Entry Qualifications
You will need to possess the following qualifications:
A Diploma or Degree in any Discipline (Banking/Finance is an advantage). Relevant work experience also welcome.
Must be Singaporeans or Singapore Permanent Residents
Posting Your Resume
We would love to hear from you. Your resume is likely our first contact with you. This is an excellent opportunity for you to tell us about yourself, in preparation for the follow-up interview. Here are some things that we would like to know. Be concise with your answers. 2 to 3 pages would be an acceptable length.
Employment History
All relevant employment history, describing the positions held and key areas of responsibility.
Emphasise accomplishments on the job
Reasons for leaving your last employment
Strengths and Relevant Skills
Your strengths in relation to how they will help you as an adviser
Specific skills that will equip you for this position – eg. able to use the Financial Calculator, at ease with public speaking, etc.
Education/Training/Affiliations
List highest level of education first
Include additional courses and training acquired
Organisational affiliation or other curricular activities
Other Useful Information
Your reasons for considering this position
Your views on financial planning
Your expectations about this career
Referees, to help us in our referral checks
Interview Tips
This could well be your first interview, or you may have done this dozens of time. In any case, you will want to create a good impression. Here are some pointers of what we value when meeting prospective career candidates.
Be punctual. It never hurts to come in earlier, to prepare yourself mentally and to focus your thoughts on the pending interview.
Establish rapport. Be positive and enthusiastic from the moment you start. Secure a good impression by being open, relaxed, but focused.
Do your research. Read up about us before you attend the interview. A lot of information is readily available on the web and in our company brochures. Having this background information will help the interview process as we interact with each other.
Provide relevant information. You will be asked to describe situations in which you have applied knowledge and skill to overcome a particular problem. Ideally, keep your answers relevant – describing the situation, what you did, and the outcome based on your actions.
Be candid with your answers. We realise not everyone is equipped with the breadth of experience required of this position. It is alright if you do not know all the answers. We do appreciate honesty. The interview allows us to assess your potential and if your personality is of the right job fit.
Come prepared with questions. This is the time to clarify, to ask questions that will help you decide if this is something that would suit you. It also helps us measure your level of enthusiasm and suitability for the position.
Leave a good impression. Enthusiasm, a positive disposition, good manners and consideration, will help make an impression. These are some of the social graces required of an adviser and demonstrating them will help make an impact, and leave us with a good impression of you. We all appreciate a good meeting; end on a good note, as well as when you come in.
The Application Process
Procedure: The application process is likely to take 3 - 4 weeks, sometimes a little longer. We will likely contact you a week after receiving your application. You will be invited to an interview and to sit for a profiling exercise. If you are successful in the first round, we will call you back for a second interview and to work on some assessment exercises. Sometimes, a third interview may be required. If you are found suitable, a letter of offer will be given subsequently.
Process Application: 1st week
1st round Interview: 2nd week
2nd / 3rd Interview: 3rd week
Letter of Offer: 4th week
Our Feedback: We appreciate the time you spend in submitting your application, as well as in attending the interviews. Candidates who do not meet our initial criteria, and interviewees who do not clear their interviews will be informed of the outcome.
Confidentiality: Your application will be kept confidential, and used for recruitment purposes only. We may disclose your details to verify or obtain information about you from third parties, including present and past employers, educational institutions and your referees. Your resume will be put on file for up to 6 months.
Queries: Should you not hear from us within the time frame given, or have a query about the application procedure, do contact us at 6220-5333 or email: hr@firstprincipal.com
