We caught up with Emi, who shares her journey to securing a full-time role at TP ICAP.
What stood out to you about the firm you secured your role with?
One unique element that spotlighted TP ICAP for me was its position as a bridge between the financial markets and technology. As the world’s leading inter-dealer broker, TP ICAP connects the largest banks globally, providing vast liquidity and enabling trading through innovative platform offerings. I was particularly impressed by the huge range of clients and the introduction of new products. With a university background in physics, it was a natural fit for me to apply my problem-solving abilities and data-driven thinking to real-world problems, such as those that impact the global economy through dynamic technologies.
Additionally, TP ICAP has a distinctive emphasis on charity: notably the annual ICAP Charity Day, where brokers donate all their trade revenue generated for the day to charity. As someone who has always been volunteering in different ways, I am keen on giving back to the world and its communities that have supported me, whether it’s volunteering at primary schools, charity shops, or nursing homes.
Now, as a full-time employee, I appreciate the structure that grants each person autonomy and boundless opportunities for growth. Progress here is determined by one's skill, initiative, and willingness to challenge the status quo.
How did you make your application stand out?
To distinguish my application, I tailored my CV to the role, showcasing unique yet relevant skills and experiences.
During my degree, I led a group project on building a low-cost environmental air quality monitor, writing a research paper, and creating a scientific poster on our developments. I went a step further by filming and editing a video for our presentation, which was well-received by peers and professors. I highlighted my achievements by quantifying the impact of my contributions, such as improving students' maths grades and piano skills through tailored classes.
By demonstrating my ability to go above and beyond, and linking unique experiences to the role, I emphasised my strong analytical, leadership and creative skills alongside relevant expertise.
What part of the application process did you find the most challenging?
For me and perhaps most people, interviews are the hardest and most nerve-racking stage of any application. It was at TP ICAP where I began to enjoy the interview process, which consisted of a standard competency-based section and some unusual, thought-provoking technical questions related to the role I was applying for.
Throughout the technical section, I enjoyed the stimulating puzzle-like challenges which I could apply my problem-solving skills to, and had a great conversation with the employer who is now my current manager.
How did Bright Network help you secure this role?
I completed several internship applications through Bright Network and attended interview preparation seminars, as well as career-related events both on the platform and in-person around London.
Moreover, I used Bright Network’s tips and resources for applying to sector-specific jobs including those within the tech and financial sector, particularly for practicing aptitude tests in the lead up to assessment centres.
By filtering for roles in financial services and technology, it was thanks to the mailing lists that I was able to apply to TP ICAP: a firm which offered a fitting blend of both worlds.
What are your top tips for tackling tough interview questions?
My top tip for facing challenging questions is to break down the problem into logical steps and tailor your answers to the industry. I try to put myself in the employer's shoes to understand the context of the question.
For competency-based questions, know your CV and link your achievements to the required skills. It’s also important to think about the company values; at TP ICAP, performance is measured in line with the Triple A values of Adaptability, Authenticity and Accountability.
For open-ended technical challenges, stay updated on industry trends, be creative, and data-driven. Guide the interviewer through your step-by-step approach, justify your decisions, and don't hesitate to ask for clarification or a short pause to write anything down.
Did you get any feedback in the past that helped you with your application?
When I reached the interview stages and assessment centres upon my first internship applications, I was recommended the Situation-Task-Action-Reflection (STAR) approach for answering competency-based questions.
Initially, I made the rookie mistake of helplessly attempting to memorise paragraph upon paragraph. Sooner or later, I figured that it was more efficient for me to memorise key bullet points about my CV experiences and achievements, and practice talking aloud naturally to relate them to each competency using the STAR technique.
What top three tips would you give Bright Network members looking to follow in your footsteps?
First and foremost, prepare thoroughly for interviews. Know the role, industry and research the company, its culture and values - tailor your CV and cover letter to match these.
Secondly, connections can sometimes be a helpful hand and a friendly face! If there is a specific area you are interested in, do reach out to an employee at TP ICAP in that role, through LinkedIn or other platforms.
Lastly, ask questions and be yourself! Whilst it might sound cliché, I can definitely say interviews are a two-way process - so trust your skills and preparation, be curious and enjoy the conversation!