By Michala Wright, head of people at Saltgate
ENTERING the job market for the first time can be tough. Companies can look very similar from the outside and it is often hard to get a full picture of their culture and working environment.
As a graduate or school-leaver, you may be tempted to jump on the first offer you’re given, particularly if it is from a big brand.
But, at the start of your career, it is worth finding the right company to help you succeed.
To help your career take off, you should look for three big things at any potential employer:
1. Confidence that they will invest in your development.
2. Knowledge that you will be making an impact from day one.
3. A working environment where you can be yourself.
At Saltgate, this is core to everything we do. We have built a people-first culture with a premium on learning.
And our core values of engagement, partnership, integrity and commitment run through the company. This means that everybody feels supported to reach their potential – whether you are an experienced manager or you are just starting your career.
For example, Victoria Binet joined Saltgate at 16 as a summer intern – and hasn’t looked back since.
‘From the age of 16, I’ve always felt like Saltgate was committed to my progression,’ she says. ‘And, as the directors are on the floor with the teams, everyone is approachable – even senior directors.’
After interning, Victoria continued to work at Saltgate during her gap year and university holidays, joining Saltgate full-time as a graduate.
‘When studying, I was always made to feel part of the Saltgate team and always felt like they invested in me as a person, not just as an employee,’ she says. ‘At a junior level, I was given fantastic opportunities to work with the company directors and exposure to exciting areas of fund administration.’
Victoria is one of many graduates who have chosen to fast-track their career with Saltgate. When you join us from school, college or university, Saltgate provides you with:
• A structured career path and early career mentoring.
• A two-month paid sabbatical once you’ve qualified.
• Exposure to market-leading clients – including some of the biggest names in finance.
• Support and time to achieve professional administration or accounting qualifications.
• A competitive salary so you can earn while you learn.
What’s more, even with almost 200 people across Jersey, London and Luxembourg, Saltgate has kept the intimate, supportive spirit that makes it stand out in the financial sector.
‘I really loved the company’s values and sense of community,’ Victoria says. ‘Straight away, you feel as though you are part of a family rather than just a business.
‘It’s difficult to know if office life is for you but what surprised me was how fast-paced and varied the work is. No two days are the same.’
To find out about Saltgate’s programmes for school-leavers and graduates, follow Saltgate on LinkedIn, or go to saltgate.com/careers/.
