Competition gives banker vital energy
Customer interaction provides the job satisfaction that Outstanding Young Salesperson Award (OYSA) winner Alan Wong seeks.
A relationship manager for HSBC commercial banking, Mr Wong, 24, joined the bank three years ago armed with a bachelor of science degree.
Trained in one discipline, he said he had no regrets about moving into another very different field.
What is it that motivates Mr Wong, and sets him apart from his rivals?
Why did you choose this career?
Banking is the only industry that can offer me a wide scope of learning opportunities. Every company has to arrange finance and, therefore, comes to banks. My bachelor studies were of a highly analytical nature, and I later found this to be not exactly my cup of tea.
Choosing HSBC was an abrupt decision. I have no regrets about taking up a more interactive job in a front-line position.
Why did you choose HSBC?
Compared with other banks, HSBC offers the best management development programme. I appreciate the diversified learning opportunities offered here.
What does your day-to-day work encompass?
I am primarily responsible for about 50 relationships, which have loans with HSBC. My daily work consists of three parts.
The first is to maintain a good service standard for customers by handling their every request on a daily basis.
The second is to grow my portfolio income by conducting sales in terms of customers' new borrowing needs and other wealth management opportunities.
Lastly, I comply with external and internal rules and regulations, which includes regular reporting to senior managers on portfolio status and compliance issues.
What part of your job gives you the most satisfaction?
The interaction with customers to build relationships and selling give me great satisfaction.
Is this a long-term career commitment?
Sales is actually a highly mobile career, so I will try to seek the highest reward [both monetary and non-monetary] offered me from time to time.
So far, what HSBC can offer is of good value, which I do not believe other institutions can compare with. I also treasure the sense of loyalty to a giant corporation like HSBC.
What motivates you to succeed?
My motivation is usually driven by competition. I need competition as my 'bread and butter' to perform. I am always prepared for failure in competition. However, the process gives me the most energy.
How will the award help your career in the long-term?
It gives me recognition for my selling skills and supports my career progression in relevant areas. The creative selling section helped me improve on my interaction with customers.
