You are here

Company: CIBC

Position: Financial Services Representative, Telephone Banking

Employed: 13 months

Where did you go to school? Which program did you attend?
I studied Business Administration at Wilfred Laurier University and Mortgages and Housing Finance at Centennial College.

What drew you to your current position?
After acquiring my Mortgage Agents Certificate, working for a bank seemed like a natural choice. Through CCRW's Workplace Essential Skills Partnership (WESP) program, I had the opportunity to network with CIBC's Diversity Outreach Consultant. I received interviewing tips and job referrals though CIBC's Career Access Program (CCAP) for persons with disabilities, which was instrumental in helping me obtain my current role.

Tell us a bit about your responsibilities.
As a Financial Services Representative, I provide customers with superior customer service by meeting their immediate banking needs such as bill payments and balance inquiries. While servicing their needs, I recognize sales opportunities and actively promote the products and services that matter to our customers.

What is the most challenging aspect of your job?
In responding to my clients' transactional needs I want to make sure that I deliver what matters to them. That means understanding what they are looking for and providing them financial solutions that best meet those needs. When I do this, my client achieves his or her goals faster and easier and CIBC builds a deeper client relationship.

What accommodations do you use to help you succeed on the job?
Due to vision loss, I require ZoomText Magnification software on my computer as my role uses multiple platforms and software. CIBC also provides regular training; therefore I require hard copies of training materials.

Tell us about the history of your disability and how it has affected your life.
Five years ago, I started having difficulty with my vision. A visit with the optometrist revealed a condition called Diabetic Retinopathy, caused by Diabetes complications where blood collects behind the eye and causes the blood vessels to pull on the retina. This resulted in peripheral vision loss which can be limiting; I can no longer drive, something that I miss dearly. Additionally, going up and down stairs is challenging as they appear flat.

Is there one accomplishment you are most proud of to date?
In high school, the Toronto Star awarded our Team The Overall Best Yearbook in Canada. As the editor, I am most proud of this accomplishment, because it made me realize that I can be better than the norm.

What advice do you have for students looking to land their first job?
Do not limit your search to jobs only with high compensation and perks. Look for ones that show career growth potential. Also look at the company's diversity and inclusion policies and programs ' specifically the ones that are there to assist persons with disabilities.

Is there anything else you would like to add?
CIBC offers employment support to persons with disabilities through the CIBC Career Access Program (CCAP). jp
Sponsored by Rogers