Habilidades para la búsqueda de empleo - Cindy Reza - BBVA

Introduction to the Session

Welcome and Introduction

• The session is introduced by Khan de Flores, Secretary of Linkage at the Faculty of Sciences, UNAM.

• Cindy Lizbeth Reza is introduced as a special guest from BBVA, with a background in psychology and over 8 years of experience in talent acquisition.

• Cindy expresses gratitude for the opportunity to speak and welcomes attendees to the employability session.

Objectives of the Session

• The session aims to discuss BBVA's actions as an employer committed to developing young talent.

• Key topics include tips for job searching and common mistakes made during active job searches.

• Emphasis on making the job search experience positive and satisfying for participants.

BBVA's Commitment to Talent Development

Overview of BBVA

• A video presentation about BBVA is planned but faces technical difficulties initially.

• Cindy highlights that BBVA is undergoing constant transformation, aiming for a brand without borders that reflects responsibility towards society.

Global Presence

• BBVA operates in over 30 countries with approximately 126,000 employees and nearly equal gender representation among its workforce.

• The company recently celebrated one year since rebranding itself globally under the name "BBVA."

Corporate Structure and Facilities

Corporate Offices in Mexico

• In Mexico, BBVA has around 36,000 employees across three corporate centers including Torre Reforma, which features eco-friendly certifications.

• Torre Reforma is noted as the second tallest skyscraper in Mexico City with modern amenities like a helipad.

Employee Amenities

• Inside corporate offices, various activities and spaces are available for employee enjoyment.

Overview of Employee Amenities and Company Culture

Employee Facilities and Services

• The cafeteria features large orange towers and a buffet-style menu, offering a wide variety of desserts and meals for employees.

• Additional amenities include a spa providing massages of varying lengths (10 minutes to an hour), as well as beauty services like manicures and haircuts available for both women and men.

• Recreational areas are available, including games like foosball, allowing employees to de-stress during their workday. A medical service is also provided at no cost, featuring general practitioners, gynecologists, and psychologists by appointment.

• There are designated quiet areas for employees seeking solitude or relaxation without interruptions. These spaces promote tranquility amidst the work environment.

• Knowledge-sharing spaces host multidisciplinary groups and conferences aimed at fostering collaboration among employees.

Company Mission and Values

• BBVA's mission emphasizes accessibility to opportunities in the digital age while committing to social responsibility, environmental sustainability, and educational support within the country.

• The concept of "web experience" is introduced; it focuses on understanding customer needs deeply to provide tailored solutions that make clients feel heard and valued.

• This web experience extends internally; talent acquisition teams strive to understand business needs beyond just filling vacancies by engaging with hiring managers about team dynamics and expectations.

Enhancing Candidate Experience

• The recruitment process involves thorough engagement with candidates from application through onboarding. This includes clear communication about interview processes to reduce uncertainty for applicants.

• Continuous support is offered throughout the candidate journey, ensuring they receive feedback before interviews so they know what to expect when meeting potential employers.

Focus on Productivity and Quality of Life

• BBVA prioritizes productivity by establishing clear objectives that enhance employee quality of life. Clarity in goals allows better task management within corporate settings.

Values and Teamwork at BBVA

Core Values of BBVA

• The first value emphasized is "the customer comes first," highlighting the commitment to understanding and addressing client needs with kindness and support.

• Empathy is crucial; when handling talent acquisition, it's essential to put oneself in the client's shoes to strategize effectively.

• The value of "thinking big" encourages innovation and diverse perspectives, pushing beyond expectations to create new opportunities for clients.

• Delivering high-quality products that exceed client expectations involves considering various alternatives during candidate selection processes.

• Team spirit is vital; members are encouraged to assist each other, fostering a sense of belonging and shared responsibility.

Commitment to Teamwork

• Collaboration extends beyond individual roles; team members should proactively offer help across different areas within the organization.

• Effective recruitment not only fills vacancies but also ensures candidates add value and can grow within BBVA, contributing positively to its development.

• Values are visibly displayed in the workplace as reminders for employees, reinforcing their importance in daily operations.

Engaging Employees with Values

• An annual event called "Values Day" promotes awareness of company values through engaging activities designed for all employees.

• Activities include team-building exercises where participants share experiences related to core values, enhancing understanding and camaraderie among staff.

• Participants receive small tokens or gifts as recognition for sharing valuable insights during these interactive sessions.

Development Opportunities at BBVA

• BBVA emphasizes employee development through accessible training courses—both online and in-person—across various fields regardless of job function.

BBVA's Educational Programs and Talent Development

Overview of Scholarship Opportunities

• BBVA offers scholarships for employees to pursue undergraduate degrees, master's programs, or diplomas based on their tenure. Over 2,000 employees have graduated from these programs.

Language Improvement Initiatives

• The language center provides a placement exam to assess English proficiency levels, allowing employees to start courses at their convenience.

International Mobility and Job Opportunities

• Employees can access a job portal with active vacancies both nationally and globally, promoting international mobility within the bank.

Youth Talent Development Programs

• BBVA is committed to developing young talent through various programs:

• Veranito: For students in their 3rd and 4th semesters; lasts 8 weeks starting in June in Mexico City.

• Internship Program: For final-year undergraduate students with a minimum GPA of 8; lasts 6 months starting in June nationwide.

Graduate Recruitment Programs

• Several recruitment initiatives target recent graduates:

• Trainee Program: For new graduates lasting one year, starting in June in Mexico City.

• BEAT Program: Focused on engineering graduates with programming skills (Java, HTML, SQL), also lasting one year.

Specialized Financial Graduate Programs

• Additional programs include:

• BILLY: For finance graduates with AMEAL certification focusing on credit analysis and sales.

• Banquillo: Targets finance graduates for global markets and corporate banking roles requiring higher English proficiency.

Data Science Recruitment Initiative

• The Ingenium Program targets economics graduates interested in risk management for seven months starting in September.

• The Data Program seeks mathematics or actuarial science graduates skilled in statistical modeling for data science roles beginning in January.

Evolving Selection Processes

• The selection process has evolved from traditional interviews to more experiential learning opportunities involving team projects that simulate real-world scenarios.

Company Reputation Among Young Professionals

• Studies indicate BBVA ranks as the sixth most attractive company overall among students seeking employment. It stands out as the only financial institution within the top rankings.

Corporate Social Responsibility Recognition

• BBVA is recognized for its commitment to social responsibility, ranking first among financial institutions according to various evaluations like MARCO and Employers by Jude.

Changing Perceptions of Banking Careers

Employability Tips and Skills Development

Company Values and Employee Commitment

• The speaker expresses pride in being part of BMW, highlighting the company's commitment to responsibility towards both external stakeholders and employees.

• Emphasizes that dedication and commitment are core values instilled within employees, making BMW a desirable workplace.

Understanding Employability Skills

• Discusses the importance of identifying common behaviors or mistakes candidates make during the selection process that hinder their employability.

• Aims to equip candidates with necessary tools for a successful job application process, ensuring they are well-prepared.

Hard Skills vs. Soft Skills

• Notes a shift in hiring practices from solely focusing on educational qualifications to also valuing interpersonal skills across all companies.

• Highlights that while technical knowledge is important, soft skills such as teamwork and problem-solving are increasingly critical for success in any role.

Key Interpersonal Skills

• Stresses the need for candidates to demonstrate teamwork abilities, empathy, and problem-solving skills during interviews.

• Mentions the importance of negotiation skills when dealing with clients or team members to achieve mutual goals.

Adaptability and Communication

• Points out that creativity and adaptability are essential traits for navigating changes in work environments effectively.

• Underlines effective communication as vital for professional growth, emphasizing how to express agreement or disagreement constructively.

Candidate Evaluation Methods

Assessment Center Approach

• Introduces various candidate evaluation methods including panel interviews and individual assessments used at BMW.

• Describes the assessment center method where multiple candidates collaborate on projects under observation by evaluators from different areas.

Observational Dynamics During Assessments

• Explains how candidates' interactions during group tasks reveal their competencies beyond traditional interview settings.

• Evaluators observe team dynamics such as leadership roles, idea contributions, cooperation levels, and overall project organization among candidates.

Understanding Key Competencies for SME Center Participation

Importance of Competencies

• Emphasizes the significance of understanding and preparing for competencies when participating in an SME center.

• Highlights that prior work experience is not a prerequisite; recent graduates can leverage experiences like internships or social service as valuable insights.

Utilizing Personal Experiences

• Encourages candidates to share personal experiences during assessments, showcasing how these experiences contribute to their competencies.

• Stresses the importance of researching the company’s vision, objectives, and values before interviews to enhance confidence and preparedness.

Managing Interview Anxiety

• Advises candidates to remain relaxed and authentic during interviews, avoiding comparisons with other candidates.

• Suggests focusing on individual strengths rather than feeling intimidated by others' qualifications or experience.

Demonstrating Leadership Skills

• Discusses the necessity of exhibiting leadership qualities within team settings without being authoritarian; emphasizes active listening and collaboration.

• Recommends flexibility in teamwork, encouraging candidates to consider diverse opinions while guiding discussions when necessary.

Time Management During Assessments

• Underlines the importance of time management skills in group projects, ensuring all team members are organized and aware of their roles.

• Notes that maintaining focus on project goals is crucial despite being under evaluation; effective organization leads to successful outcomes.

Preparing for Panel Interviews

Structure of Panel Interviews

• Describes panel interviews as common formats where multiple interviewers assess a single candidate's background, including education and work experience.

Researching Interviewers

• Advises candidates to research interviewers beforehand if possible; knowing their backgrounds can help establish rapport during the interview.

Engaging with Interviewers

• Encourages candidates to actively engage with interviewers by acknowledging their professional journeys, which demonstrates genuine interest in the process.

Importance of Preparation Materials

• Stresses bringing necessary materials (like resumes or portfolios), as some candidates may overlook this aspect due to overconfidence.

Final Thoughts on Candidate Presentation

Interview Preparation Tips

Importance of Being Prepared

• It's crucial to have a backup plan for interviews, such as bringing additional copies of your resume and preparing for unexpected attendees.

• Practicing a self-introduction is essential; nerves can disrupt the flow of your presentation even if you know your information well.

Building Confidence Through Practice

• Rehearsing with family or friends 2-3 days before the interview can help build confidence and ensure a smoother delivery on the day.

• Maintaining eye contact with all panel members during the interview fosters connection and engagement, rather than focusing solely on one person.

Understanding Interview Dynamics

• Individual interviews have evolved from structured Q&A formats to more conversational styles aimed at building trust between candidate and interviewer.

• Candidates should feel free to ask questions during their first contact with HR; it’s an opportunity to clarify doubts about the process.

Researching the Company

• Investigating the company beforehand is vital; understanding its culture helps determine if it's a good fit for you.

• Arriving prepared with multiple copies of necessary documents ensures you're ready for any situation that may arise during the interview.

Professionalism in Presentation

• Arriving 10 minutes early shows respect for the interview process without being excessively early, which could disrupt scheduling.

• Dressing appropriately reflects professionalism; avoid casual attire like jeans or sneakers unless specified otherwise.

Communication Skills During Interviews

• Avoid distractions like chewing gum or smoking before an interview; maintaining personal hygiene is important for making a good impression.

Interview Preparation Tips

Importance of Conciseness in Responses

• Emphasizes the need for concise answers during interviews, as lengthy responses can dilute the message and create uncertainty about the information being conveyed.

Highlighting Achievements

• Encourages candidates to discuss their accomplishments, even if they have limited experience. Contributions made during internships or volunteer work are valuable.

Projecting Confidence

• Stresses the importance of projecting confidence during interviews. Candidates should feel relaxed and secure in their knowledge to convey trustworthiness.

Maintaining Eye Contact

• Highlights that maintaining eye contact is crucial in interviews as it shows attentiveness and respect towards the interviewer, enhancing communication effectiveness.

The Value of Asking Questions

• Advises candidates to ask questions if clarity is lacking regarding job roles or expectations. This proactive approach can prevent misunderstandings later in the hiring process.

Common Mistakes in Job Applications

Understanding Application Processes

• Discusses common errors candidates make when applying for jobs online, particularly those who are new to job searching.

Importance of Accurate Information

• Warns against incomplete or incorrect personal information on applications, such as names and contact details, which can hinder communication from potential employers.

Email Address Considerations

• Advises candidates to use active email addresses rather than outdated ones (e.g., school emails), ensuring they remain reachable throughout the application process.

Salary Expectations Clarity

Job Search Strategies and Transparency

Importance of Honesty in Job Applications

• Emphasizes the need for honesty, transparency, and realistic expectations when applying for jobs. Candidates should align their job applications with their actual qualifications and salary expectations.

• Highlights that candidates often apply for positions without considering whether their salary expectations match the role's offerings. It's crucial to ensure coherence between current earnings and future aspirations.

Presenting Skills and Qualifications

• Advises candidates to take time filling out job portals thoroughly, despite potential frustrations. Detailed information about skills and certifications is essential for effective applications.

• Stresses the importance of accurately representing educational qualifications. Candidates should clearly state if they are graduates or still pursuing degrees to avoid misrepresentation.

Application Process Insights

• Warns against clicking options like "I am looking for my first job," as it may lead to missing important sections in the application process that capture relevant experiences.

• Encourages candidates to include all relevant work experiences, such as internships or volunteer work, as these contribute positively to their profiles during recruitment processes.

Understanding Recruitment Dynamics

• Discusses common misconceptions among candidates regarding the number of applicants per vacancy. Many assume there are only a few competitors when in reality, there can be hundreds.

• Urges candidates not to apply indiscriminately but rather focus on roles where they meet all specified requirements. This approach minimizes wasted effort and enhances chances of success.

Managing Job Search Expectations

• Explains how applying broadly can lead to disappointment if candidates do not meet specific criteria outlined in job postings, resulting in unnecessary travel costs and emotional strain from rejections.

How to Effectively Update Your CV

Importance of Updating Information

• It's crucial to deactivate your job portal if you're no longer seeking opportunities, or update your information if you want to continue participating in other processes.

• Ensure that your name, email, and phone number are correct; these minor details significantly impact the speed and efficiency of communication.

Crafting a Compelling CV

• Focus on content over design when creating your CV. While an attractive layout is important, the message conveyed through the content is paramount.

• Keep your CV updated with relevant information such as a formal photo and ensure legibility in typography. Avoid spelling mistakes by having someone review it.

Key Elements of a Strong CV

• Limit your CV to one page; recruiters often sift through numerous applications and appreciate concise presentations of achievements rather than lengthy descriptions.

• Clearly state employment history with specific dates and focus on accomplishments rather than just listing responsibilities.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoid including unnecessary personal details like references or irrelevant courses. Stick to essential contact information.

• When stating career objectives, be specific about what you offer rather than using generic phrases that lack clarity.

Academic Background Presentation

• Include only the most recent academic qualifications; avoid listing every educational level from kindergarten onward.

• Clearly indicate whether you have completed degrees (e.g., bachelor's or master's), as this can affect filtering during recruitment processes.

Honesty in Skills Representation

• Be truthful about your skills and knowledge. Misrepresenting abilities can lead to uncomfortable situations during interviews when tested on those skills.

Professional Presentation of Your CV

• Ensure that your CV is cleanly formatted without stains or disorganization; professionalism reflects preparation and respect for potential employers.

Reflecting on Achievements

Resume Writing Tips and Interview Insights

Importance of Structured Resumes

• A well-structured resume is crucial; it should include personal details, contact information, and relevant career data.

• Focus on conciseness in detailing skills and experiences; elaborate during the interview instead of overloading the resume.

Session Conclusion and Audience Engagement

• The speaker expresses gratitude for audience participation, emphasizing the session's productivity.

• Attendees are encouraged to ask questions, highlighting the interactive nature of the discussion.

Addressing Career Queries

Inclusion of Various Academic Backgrounds

• Clarification on hiring policies: while mathematicians and physicists are accepted, biologists may not fit current roles.

Communication Etiquette in Interviews

• Discusses whether to address interviewers formally or informally; suggests adapting based on interviewer cues.

Key Interview Questions and Preparation Strategies

Common Interview Questions

• Emphasizes that modern interviews focus more on competencies rather than standard questions.

Situational Responses

• Candidates should prepare for situational questions about past experiences related to leadership or achieving objectives.

Essential Skills for Data Science Candidates

Software Proficiency Requirements

• Highlights essential statistical software knowledge as a key requirement for candidates in data science roles.

Final Advice for Students Entering the Job Market

Overview of Facebook Live Session

Introduction to the Session

• The session is being broadcasted live on Facebook and will be available later on the faculty's fan page and YouTube for future reference.

• Viewers are encouraged to ask questions during the live session, with links provided for easy access.

Engagement with Audience

• The host mentions that they will follow up on unanswered questions by coordinating with Cindy to respond in the comments section of their fan page.