What They Don’t Tell You About Banking Jobs
When I first joined the banking sector, I thought success would depend on hard work, performance, and dedication. And while that’s partly true, I quickly learned that there’s another layer to this profession—internal politics.
It’s not something they teach you in training or mention in job interviews, but it’s there, quietly influencing decisions, shaping careers, and frustrating even the most hardworking employees.
Let me share some stories and insights about how internal politics impacts banking professionals and what you can do to navigate it.
The Harsh Realities of Internal Politics
1. Promotions Aren’t Always Fair
I remember a colleague, Ramesh (name changed), who was one of the most efficient employees in our branch. He’d been consistently achieving his targets and even went above and beyond to help others. But when the promotion results came out, his name wasn’t on the list.
The reason? The interview round. While Ramesh excelled in his work, another candidate with stronger connections got through. It wasn’t about performance—it was about who knew the right people.
This isn’t an isolated case. Internal politics often overshadows merit, especially in subjective processes like interviews.
- What You Can Do:
- Focus on building relationships alongside delivering results.
- Keep a record of your achievements to highlight your contributions during appraisals or promotions.
2. Unions Aren’t Always Just
Many bankers join unions hoping they’ll fight for justice and fairness. And while unions can be helpful, they often have their own biases.
I once met a young banker, Priya, who wanted a transfer closer to her hometown. She followed all the required procedures and approached the union for support. While her request was genuine, it was denied because she wasn’t “connected” to the right people within the union. Meanwhile, another employee—less deserving but more aligned with the union leadership—was granted a transfer to the same location.
- What You Can Do:
- Understand the dynamics of your union but stay neutral in their politics.
- Build a network that extends beyond union representatives to include management and peers.
3. The Burden of Hard Work
In banking, there’s an unspoken rule: the harder you work, the more work you’ll be given. It sounds like recognition, but it often feels like punishment.
I experienced this myself during my early days in banking. I would consistently meet my targets ahead of schedule, and instead of acknowledgment, I was handed additional tasks. Meanwhile, colleagues who barely met their quotas were left alone.
This creates a cycle where top performers feel overworked and underappreciated.
- What You Can Do:
- Set boundaries. Politely but firmly communicate your workload capacity to your manager.
- Delegate tasks where possible and focus on high-impact activities.
Why Does This Happen?
1. Power Dynamics
Banking is a hierarchical profession. Decision-making often rests in the hands of a few individuals, making it easy for personal biases to influence outcomes.
2. Competition Over Collaboration
With limited promotions and opportunities, employees are often pitted against each other rather than encouraged to work as a team.
3. Lack of Transparency
Processes like transfers, appraisals, and promotions are rarely transparent, leaving room for favoritism and hidden agendas.
How to Navigate Internal Politics
1. Build Your Reputation
Your work speaks for itself, but your relationships amplify your voice. Build a reputation for being reliable, approachable, and solution-oriented.
2. Stay Professional
Avoid engaging in gossip or office politics. Focus on solutions and maintain a positive attitude, even in challenging situations.
3. Focus on Growth Beyond Work
Sometimes, the best way to rise above internal politics is to create opportunities outside of it.
- Learn new skills, start a side hustle, or explore personal development.
Take Charge of Your Career
Internal politics is frustrating, but it’s not unbeatable. By focusing on your growth, building genuine relationships, and staying professional, you can carve a path to success despite the challenges.
Remember, you don’t have to do this alone. Join the Bankpediaa Elite Group to connect with like-minded professionals and gain strategies to navigate the complexities of banking.
Let’s work together to ensure that internal politics doesn’t hold you back.
