However, when it comes to a leading retail bank's management training programme, getting accepted is not easy. Competition is fierce as the programmes offer a secure entry into the working world, with starting salaries as high as $17,500 a month.

Additionally, banks consider management training programmes a long-term investment. If they are not satisfied by the standard of the candidates, the positions remain vacant.

To secure a place on a management training programme, applicants need to pass a rigorous screening process that includes aptitude tests, interviews, exercises and group discussions.

So what can candidates do to stand out from the crowd? First, they need to know what the banks are looking for.

The consensus is that, in addition to an excellent academic record and general commercial sense, trainees need to have an ability to think logically, put forward ideas easily and be good with people.

Trainees move between different departments and need to adapt effectively, taking the initiative to learn the ropes as quickly as possible. In addition, they must be able to communicate effectively in Cantonese and English.

The next stage is preparation. A candidate will be expected to show commitment to a banking career by demonstrating a real interest in and knowledge of banking, specifically the bank the candidate hopes to join. This may sound obvious, but not all applicants go to the trouble of doing their research.

'You would be amazed how many people don't actually know we have a website or, if they do, have not looked at it,' said Anna Sampson, head of resourcing and talent management at Standard Chartered Bank.

If applicants are not properly prepared, they will waste their and the bank's time. Candidates should look at websites, read annual reports and make every effort to broaden their knowledge of the commercial world.

Yvonne Chan, senior staff relations manager at Hang Seng Bank, said: 'I highly recommend that university students read newspapers every day and regularly read magazines to keep informed about what's happening around the world - not just in Hong Kong, and not just the news about film stars. They have to digest the information, think and form their own opinions.'

Another way to gain a competitive advantage is by sitting the licensing exams needed to sell insurance and to learn about financial planning while still at university. Extracurricular activities also work as an advantage as they demonstrate organisational skills and drive - being able to handle studies and contribute to university or community activities at the same time.

Banks, however, look for applicants who have taken a leadership role in these activities, not just taken part.

'I see a lot of candidates who give me a one-page list of the societies and associations they have participated in,' Ms Chan said.

'But they only participated, they never took up a role to contribute to these societies or associations. They just enjoyed the benefits.'

Hang Seng Bank senior manager, head of staff training and development HR division Janice Li said: 'We are looking for future leaders, we are not looking for future workers. You need to have had exposure to develop your leadership skills, your interpersonal skills or your thinking and planning. So when trainees come to us and say they have got very good leadership skills, we say, 'show me'.'

The first interview offers only a brief opportunity to stand out from the crowd so it is vital applicants have a clear idea of what they want from their careers and are proactive in putting across hopes and aspirations.

This is also the time for applicants to present relevant information about themselves not covered by the questions.

A group interview requires a more diplomatic approach, with interviewees required to show confidence and make an impression, but not at the expense of others.

Ms Sampson said: 'We never look for someone who, at the cost of others, wants to stand out.' The trick is to avoid talking for the sake of it, to make sure that what you say is worth hearing, and to listen to other candidates.

First impressions are also important. 'You notice people who look you in the eye, stand up to meet you and move forward,' Ms Chan said.

Posture and clothing can also give a lot away about a person. The banks are looking for a sense of seriousness, for someone who can gain people's trust and project a high-calibre image.

Stella Lau, head of human resources at Shanghai Commercial Bank, sees many applicants who arrive for their interview unsuitably dressed. 'I would expect them to dress like an executive,' she said.

how to get noticed

Start early - get involved in extracurricular activities while still at university.

Do your homework - know about the company and the industry.

Wise up - read the newspaper every day.

Appearance counts - dress as smartly as you can for the interview.

First impressions count - stand up, shake hands, look your interviewer in the eye.

Interview techniques - offer information about yourself, ask questions and listen.