The Realities of Pursuing a Career as a Relationship Manager
While deployed in the Middle East with the National Guard, a friend suggested I apply to his bank for a role as a relationship manager, highlighting my strong soft skills and problem-solving abilities. He believed my traits would make me a great fit for supporting their customers. Eager to explore this opportunity, I dedicated the last month of my deployment to refining my resume for a relationship manager position. Unfortunately, I faced rejection due to my “lack of banking experience.” Despite my friend’s assurance that some banks might overlook this gap if my other experiences were relevant, I found it challenging to continue my job search. I ultimately shifted gears and accepted a full-time Active Duty role with the Guard as a Career Counselor focused on retention.
In my current position, I work on retaining soldiers in my battalion by connecting them with various Army programs and benefits, processing bonuses, and offering career and financial advice. I plan to continue in this role for the next few years until I’m eligible for retirement, at which point I hope to resume my pursuit of a relationship manager position. I also hold a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication, which should enhance my qualifications.
Given my background in retention (and possibly recruiting), how relevant do you think this experience will be in securing a career as a relationship manager? Are there specific certifications or degrees I should consider pursuing? Additionally, when would be a good time to start reaching out to banks to get my name out there?
One response
It sounds like you have a solid foundation for a career as a Relationship Manager (RM), especially with your skills in problem-solving and communication. Your experience as a Career Counselor in the Army focuses on retention, which involves understanding individuals’ needs, building relationships, and providing tailored solutions—skills that are essential for an RM role.
1. Relevance of Your Experience:
Your current role will indeed provide relevant experience for a future RM position. The skills you develop in understanding soldier needs, offering career and financial advice, and fostering strong relationships will translate well to the banking environment. In both roles, you’ll need to build trust and ensure customer satisfaction, which is crucial for maintaining lasting relationships with clients.
2. Certifications and Degrees:
To enhance your qualifications, consider pursuing certifications such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Certified Financial Planner (CFP), or the Accredited Financial Counselor (AFC) designation. These can provide you with the financial expertise that banking institutions value. Additionally, completing courses or certifications in customer relationship management or sales can further bolster your skills.
3. Networking and Outreach:
Start reaching out to banks and financial institutions well before you’re ready to apply. Networking is key in the banking industry. Connect with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn, attend industry events, or join relevant groups to gain insights and create connections. Engaging in these conversations now can make a significant difference when you’re officially seeking a position later.
Consider reaching out to local banks for informational interviews. Express your interest in a relationship manager role and ask about skills they prioritize and any potential volunteer or shadowing opportunities. This proactive approach can help you gain insights and make valuable connections.
4. Timeline for Application:
Since you’re planning to remain in your current role for a few more years, use this time to prepare. Focus on gaining experience, pursuing relevant certifications, and building your network. By the time you’re ready to transition, you’ll have a much stronger application backed by practical experiences that banks will find valuable.
In conclusion, your background in retention and counseling, combined with strategic efforts to enhance your skills and network, will make you a competitive candidate for a Relationship Manager role. Keep refining your approach, and best of luck as you work toward your goals!