It's all about money!

<div class="section1"><div class="Normal">Banking as a profession appeals for various reasons: It could be the security and attractive fringe benefits, the team work involved, interaction with customers, intellectual challenge and the responsibilities attached. Being in control of money and creating revenue could give you an enormous high. Whatever be the reason behind considering banking as a career, it demands a methodical approach, attention to detail and accuracy.Although, not all areas of banking require strong quantitative skills, yet you must be comfortable in the use of numbers if you wish to work in a bank.<br /><br />Being computer savvy and having an ability to come to grips with technology is critical for anyone who desires to enter this profession. Most banks prefer candidates who are familiar with the use of computers including Operating Computer System in DOS and Windows Mode, knowledge of word processor like MS-Word/ Word Star, and spread sheet like MS-EXCEL.<br /><br /><span style="" font-weight:="" bold="">Opportunities</span><br />Entry as an officer in the banking sector is possible for graduates in any discipline if they are prepared to tackle the ‘probationary officers (P O) examination'' conducted to fill up the vacancies in the public sector banks. At present, there are hundreds of vacancies waiting to be filled in Syndicate Bank (10.10.2004), Vijaya Bank (17.10.2004), State Bank of India (31.10.2004) and Corporation Bank (21.11.2004).<br /><br />Most of the banks invite applications from 21 to 30 year olds, with relaxation for reserved category candidates. Any graduate is eligible to apply without any basic percentage requirement, except for SBI, where an applicant should be a graduate with at least 65 per cent or more marks. SC/ ST/ Physically handicapped candidates may apply with a 60 per cent or more marks.<br /><br /><span style="" font-weight:="" bold="">P O exam</span><br /><br />Applications are usually invited around two to three months before the date of the entrance test. For someone completely unprepared, this time is sufficient to prepare and make a successful attempt if he/ she possesses basic numerical and reasoning skills, is capable in the use of English in everyday life and is aware about the current events.<br /><br />Eligible applicants have to appear for a written test. Those who qualify the written exam are called for an interview/ group discussion. The written test invariably consists of an objective type test and a descriptive type test. The latter is normally of a qualifying nature and does not count towards merit ranking. The objective type paper usually comprises a test of reasoning, quantitative aptitude, general awareness, and English language. Be prepared for negative marking for wrong answers in the objective type test. The average time allowed for attempting each question is approximately 35 seconds, so the essence of success is speed with accuracy.<br /><br />The objective type test conducted for SBI P O selection includes a psychometric test and a test of computer literacy.<br /><br />The question papers are in bilingual form except for the English test. The descriptive test consists of short questions on a given situation which a candidate has to comprehend, analyse and then express his/ her views, either in English or Hindi. It is basically a test of written communication skills and ability to logically present ideas in a concise manner.<br /><br />The group discussion/ interview is for an overall assessment of your personality evaluating communication skills and general awareness of the world with some emphasis on the banking industry.<br /><br /><span style="" font-weight:="" bold="">Career prospects</span><br /><br />Once selected, the officers undergo probation for two years during which they are put through on-the-job training which goes a long way in equipping them for a long term career in commercial banking. Entry point salaries are around Rs 12,000 per month. Performers can move on through increasing responsibilities to reach the top management cadres in the banking industry. An all India coverage and presence gives the officers recognition in society among the most ordinary to the elite.<br /><br /><span style="" font-weight:="" bold="">Specialist entry</span><br /><br />Public sector banks moreover, invite specialists from economics, statistics, computer science and engineering, agriculture, accountancy and finance to apply through a written test and interview. The written test assesses English and general awareness and knowledge of the specialisation area, among other things.<br /><br /><span style="" font-weight:="" bold="">Notification</span><br /><br />Refer Employment News issues of July 3, 2004 for Vijaya Bank applications; July 10, 2004 for Syndicate Bank; July 17, 2004 for Corporation Bank and July 24, 2004 (www.sbi.co.in) for State Bank of India.</div> </div>