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You recruit people for across Europe to work in London. How important are language skills?

We have a very high intake of foreign graduates, 60-70 per cent, often with fluency in at least two languages. A second language isn’t critical to securing a job with us, but it is a distinct advantage.

What qualities make a good candidate?

Comfort with numbers really is a given working for an investment bank. It’s not necessary to have a degree in Applied Mathematics, although some graduates who work here do. Unless you’re applying to work in developing new products it isn’t essential. We recruit people who have a variety of degrees, from zoology to history.

We do insist on academic excellence regardless of the degree. We also look at A-level results, with candidates often needing to have gained at least 26 Ucas points. A 2(i) is also necessary although many successful candidates have Firsts.

This is a tough message for graduates thinking of applying and some areas of JP Morgan are more flexible about this than others.

Is it important to demonstrate interests and successes outside of university life?

Extra-curricular activities are important and we at JP Morgan are very interested in a candidate’s activities outside of university. Applicants should think about how they present themselves. This isn’t just a question of dressing appropriately for an interview, but concerns how they can make themselves stand out from the crowd.

It’s important that on the application form they present themselves as a well-rounded individual who can demonstrate personal success and leadership skills – qualities important to a successful career with JP Morgan.

What is the best way for a graduate to prepare for the application process?

Do your homework. It still amazes me the number of people who turn up and don’t know anything about the bank. The internet is a wonderful and easily accessible resource with our own website providing a huge wealth on information for applicants, so there really is no excuse not to be clued up about the company if you are invited for an interview.

You won’t be expected to regurgitate the Financial Times or necessarily have a view on issues such as EU enlargement, but if you can demonstrate some knowledge about JP Morgan and be aware if it has been in the news recently, then great.

Anything that candidates should not do?

Don’t try to bluff it. We have a very sophisticated application process and you will be found out. If you don’t know the answer to something in an interview, and this applies to any job, don’t panic and guess. It’s the worst thing when an interviewee makes something up trying to cover their lack of knowledge. If you don’t know something about the company be honest. If you prepare thoroughly you shouldn’t have this problem.

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