Getting a job in the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is one of the lucrative job anyone can think of. Aside the fact that it has a handsome renumeration, it comes with a prestige and class that’s on it own.
Applying for job at CBN is not something anybody can wake up one morning, dust his or her curriculum vitae and begin to apply. There are some necessary rudiments you must observe before one can apply. It’s not enough to have a first-class degree from a reputable university or an impressive resumé, you must understand that competition for any job slot in the Apex bank is high and demoralizing if you’re not well prepared. If you don’t have the capacity and capabilities, it’s advised that you find yourself a suitable job in any lower bank of your choice.
Please note that the Central Bank of Nigeria doesn’t usually advertise job vacancies but there’s always a recruitment of staff going on and employment opportunities being given to people at certain points. What does this tell you? Anything is possible if only you know how to put the right foot forward.
To apply for a job in the Central Bank of Nigeria, one must do the following:
1. Have a strong educational background: It’s not enough to desire to work in the Central Bank of Nigeria, the question is, do you have the required educational qualifications for a job in the Apex bank? Except in works such as cleanereor security personnel which has a company taking care of that, other jobs in CBN are for people with good educational qualifications. Such qualifications serve as a pointer to the fact that you’ve paid your dues in the banking sector and you have learnt the rope and also willing to learn more if given the opportunity. It also shows that your career has spanned different years and hours of rigorous training which makes you suitable for the job. Such qualifications such as Master’s degree, PhD and other high-ranking certifications will help to boost your chances. Please be reminded that there are other applicants with BSC and Higher National Diploma that are also gunning for the same available job slot.
So, having a strong educational background and good qualifications can serve as the first step to consider before applying for a job at Central Bank of Nigeria. What did you study? Does it have any relevance to the available job vacancy? If yes, proceed to the next step.
2. Brush up your portfolio: This is the point where you put your qualifications and experiences in writing. You may need to employ the services of a good CV writer. You must also carry your portfolio by heart so that you can say it off-hand during the physical interview segment. The point here is that your portfolio is the messenger that must go before you to make your crooked path straight in your job application process. You have to edit and proofread your resumé or give it to a good editor and proofreader to make sure that all unwanted materials are eliminated and your resumé become the best among equals.
Another thing to note is that it’s always good to be honest and truthful. Don’t go and forge certificates just to impress the interviewers. Don’t just say you can do what you cannot do just to get the job because it will only be sooner than later, you will discovered and humiliated with dismissal.
3. Connect with the big wigs in the banking industry: Before even sending your application across, you should first build network. It’s this network of yours that will pull the strings that will put you as a staff of Central Bank of Nigeria. You have to try and attend any function or occasion where you can connect and interact, be it gala night, birthdays, funerals etc. It’s this places that you can connect freely and gain access to the industry big wigs.
These big wigs can be bank Managers, Managing Directors, Deputy managing director etc. It’s not always good to look down on people, so anyone that can call the shot in any financial institution, don’t look down on him or her even if they are not looking attractive or plush. Some powerful people prefer to dress casually or without expensive wears just to evade attention or the prying eyes of the media.
4. Go to their official website and apply: The next step is going to the Apex bank’s official website to get the application form. The application form is usually online and updated from time to time and you should be vigilant to know when there’s an update. Going to the website will warrant you uploading some of your credentials for screening and possible fixing of date for interview.
The online application will also ask you questions you need to answer for the sake of clarity and proper documentation. You may need to start making friends with people who are already working inside there and asking them questions about the routine and nature of the interview segment. You just have to believe in yourself and have the confidence that you will make it. Somethings are by luck and destiny smiling on someone’s effort. After putting all the efforts and doing all the above, you just have to pray that the universe or the light of luck shines on you.
5.Wait for invitation for interview and going if invited: After screening your credentials, you will be sent an email for a slated date and venue for an interview. The interview is strictly based on invitation as security will not allow you to cross the entrance without evidence of official invitation for interview. If you’re going to the interview, pay attention to your dress code. Dress like someone who’s already working in the Central Bank of Nigeria. Apply good cologne and take care of your hair. Do not appear at the interview looking hungry because that will definitely impact the success of your interview.
Don’t be a weapon fashioned against yourself. If possible, put up a smile through out the interview. It’s said that smile is contagious and who knows, your smile may sweep off the heart of one of the interviewers and you will be given the job.
Also, display some sort of confidence and competence during the application and interview sessions. Apply like a king who knows what he wants and what he can offer. This is because the interviewers are looking for someone with confidence and competence in the lacking area covering the job description. They should see you as a worthy fit for the job.
