To tackle the experience gaps, structured internship programmes of various organisations are a great option for young professionals. One of the most prominent among such programmes is the IPDC Finternship.

To know more about the programme, we have talked to Md. Sayeed Iqbal, Chief Human Resources Officer, IPDC Finance PLC.

Branded as a “Gateway to the Financial Industry”, successful applicants are expected to gain exposure to key functional areas, including retail and consumer finance, SME and corporate business, risk and compliance, customer experience, sales and relationship management, business analytics and digital financial solutions.

“We believe that today’s interns are tomorrow’s leaders. Keeping this in mind, our primary objective is to create a structured pathway for developing future talent pipelines with passionate and innovative younger cohorts by providing them with real life exposure in the financial sector and at the same time strengthening our employer branding,” explained Md Sayeed Iqbal.

Mr Iqbal also added that the first stage, screening of applicant CVs, is going to be done in a different form. “Since candidates will lack work experience, our focus will be on future potential and transferable skills gained from universities.”

According to him, an error-free CV with technical skills and evidence of leadership from different extracurricular engagements is the key to getting called up for assessment tests.

Mr Iqbal mentioned that CGPA will not be the major concern when it comes to screening the applications. “Our primary focus remains on skills and extracurricular activity involvement rather than on academic results, but a minimum acceptable CGPA is required.”

After the assessment tests, there will be structured interview sessions. “We will assess communication skills, problem-solving skills, analytical skills and leadership potential to find an agile ‘cultural add’ candidate who will not only fit in but can enhance our existing culture,” said Mr Iqbal.

Through the interview, as Mr Iqbal explains, IPDC will judge how candidates display their behaviour based on the seven core values of the organisation, and how the interviewees will contribute in the future if selected.

Mr Iqbal also highlighted the key factors which will lead to rejection.

“Poor introduction of themselves, lack of positive tone and energy, lack of knowledge about the company, our products and latest news, failing to showcase engagement in extracurricular activities, academic projects, case studies, no specific career interests and aspirations, and lack of proper attire are all major red flags,” and according to him, will result in immediate rejection.

Through this process, IPDC hopes to provide successful applicants a pathway towards real-world corporate experience and an opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals, offering insight into the operations of a modern financial institution across multiple departments.

The advice from Mr Iqbal for all applicants is to display a “Will to Win” attitude, showing the potential for meaningful contribution.