The BRMA Mentoring Program – You couldn’t ask for a better outcome!

My initial thoughts going into the program were mixed having participated in several previously, not through BRMA though. Robert’s situation and background gave me pause as I had overcome similar challenges throughout my career and after several conversations, we decided to give the program a chance.

Robert knew exactly what he wanted, and we worked to together to outline his objectives. Using the BRMA structured methodology and documentation as a guide, Robert outlined the items that were important to him.

Robert had 2 primary objectives.

1. What can I do to get noticed from a resume perspective?
2. Once noticed, what would help me get hired during interviews?

The first problem to overcome was Robert having mainly a technical background and always getting pigeonholed away from BC/DR, where he wanted to be, back into the System Administration role. For this item, we worked on his resume, highlighting the BC/DR elements, and toning down those technical elements which went through several iterations for each phone interview.

The second problem was how to prepare for the in-person interviews. Working with another BRMA member, Robert received information about a bank position. We reviewed several items on his resume and I suggested that Robert get the FDIC Handbook and become familiar with it. Different regulators have specific language that would be beneficial to at least know during an interview. Robert followed that advice, studying the handbook, excelled during the interview, and was ultimately hired. The bank later stated that they were impressed that he knew the terminology and was able to discuss it during the interview was the reason he got hired.

At this point, even though there was still 2 months left in the mentoring program, it was decided to stop to let Robert focus on his work. Robert was doing well at the bank and was given several key projects that would take most of his time.

From my point of view, the program was a success. Utilizing the BRMA program methodology in part we were able to quickly identify Roberts primary objectives which ultimately led to the mentee finally getting into a profession that he wanted to be in. It was a pleasure having Robert as a Mentee.

Robert continues to excel at his new job.

Regards,
Matthew Rhodes