The investment banking sector is fiercely competitive, so getting ahead is key. Taking part in an insight programme, like a spring week, is an excellent way to do this.
Many banks offer spring week placements to first-year uni students, which give freshers valuable experience and helps get their finance career on the fast track.
So, what exactly are spring weeks? In this guide, we’ll cover:
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What is a spring week?
A spring week, also known as an insight week, is a placement undertaken during the Easter holidays of your first year at university (or second year if your course lasts four years, not three).
An investment banking spring week involves spending your time at a bank, where you’ll learn about the work they do and the wider industry.
Investment banking insight weeks have become more important in the sector as the competition’s increased. Banks use these weeks to spot high-potential candidates as early as possible. Want to make your mark? Get noticed with a spring week spot.
What happens on a spring week?
The aim of the week is to get to know the industry and your host. So, expect plenty of information. Pens and notebooks at the ready! You’ll also spend time observing the business in action.
What exactly you’ll do will depend on the placement, but typical activities include:
- Introductions to the day-to-day business and what to expect from working in a bank.
- CV workshops and skills sessions to give you an idea of how to succeed in the industry.
- Social and networking events to help you build contacts in the bank – these are great opportunities to ask questions; plus, it gives everyone a chance to get to know you too.
- Shadowing current trainees or more senior members of staff to learn about the work done at various levels.
Some insight weeks will give you a general overview, while others drill down into specifics. So, if you’re interested in a particular area, look out for the banks that ask students where they’d like to spend their time (ie. capital markets, advisory, trading and brokerage or asset management). If you choose an area, you’ll have a more focused experience than those on a general spring week. However, if you’re not sure where your interests lie, there’s no need to narrow your options down just yet. A broad spring week will let you learn about everything – including what excites you.
It varies from bank to bank, but some firms will cover expenses for the week (eg. travel, lunch and accommodation).
Why to apply for an insight week
An investment banking spring week is an opportunity to gain experience, shadow different roles, take part in skill sessions and meet industry contacts. It’ll give you your first glimpse into investment banking. It’ll also let you see what the culture at that company is like.
A benefit of completing a spring week is that it’ll help you secure the next step (a summer internship). If you want to apply for an internship at the same firm, your application will probably be fast-tracked. Even if you decide that firm’s not for you, you’ll still be a step ahead as an insight week will look good on your CV.
Banks draw heavily from their internship pool when hiring for their grad schemes, so it's worth getting on the first rung of the ladder as early as possible.
What are investment banks looking for from spring week candidates?
Places for spring weeks are usually given on a first come, first served basis – so being speedy is recommended. But don’t rush your application. Although employers know you won’t have experience yet, they’re still looking for certain qualities.
To make your spring week application stand out, you need to show you’ve got a strong academic record (you’re at uni, so that’s a tick), analytical skills and an interest in finance. Mentioning extra-curricular activities on your CV will show that you’re a well-rounded individual too. If possible, show you’ve got proven leadership skills and that you’ll work well in a team. So, if you’re the captain of a sports team, now’s your time to shine.
Key takeaways
Investment banking spring weeks (or insight weeks) let you make your mark in finance while you’re still a fresher. You’ll learn about the industry, your chosen bank and what the day-to-day work looks like.
Spring insight weeks are competitive, but if you get your application in early (and make it a good one), you’re giving yourself the best chance of getting your career started in the Easter break.
Don't delay, apply now.
Keep an eye on our listings for the latest work experience opportunities, including spring insight programmes.