How PostFinance makes the job application process a positive experience

“PostFinance not only offers attractive employment conditions, but also a positive job application experience,” says Dominique Roth, who started as a Content Marketing Manager at the financial institution in July 2023. Nimisha Kasamkattil is pleased that the recruitment process is perceived in this way. As a People Attraction Partner, she is enthusiastic about the candidate experience. “As a team, we’re constantly thinking about how we can improve the process.” From selection to onboarding: at every stage, there is potential for modernizing recruitment, optimizing processes and making the job application process at PostFinance even more pleasant for candidates. In this interview, the two women talk about the current situation and employees’ experiences in their first 90 days at the dynamic company.

Dominique, you’ve been working as Content Marketing Manager at PostFinance since July 2023. How did you hear about the job, and why did you apply?

After 13 years with the same employer and training in content marketing, I was looking for a new challenge. I saw a job advertisement for PostFinance on jobs.ch. The storytelling and content marketing role really appealed to me. I also have several friends who have worked at PostFinance and have only positive things to say. So I decided to try my luck.

Nimisha, it wasn’t only Dominique who was lucky, but also PostFinance. You were involved in the recruitment process as a People Attraction Partner. What appealed to you about Dominique?

I can still remember the conversation with Dominique well. During the interview, she was open, authentic and convincing about her motivation for the job. She answered my questions and gave me concrete examples of what she has done so far and what she has achieved. It was a pleasant and interesting conversation. We got to know her better and she won us over.

What do you generally look for when selecting new employees, and what can you recommend to candidates?

We start the recruitment process by clarifying the job profile and discussing with the manager what experience and skills they are looking for. We word the job advertisement accordingly. I then compare the dossiers I receive with the job profile I’m looking for. We’re also interested in applications from candidates who don’t yet meet all the requirements. Thanks to our Talent Relationship Management, if we have to turn down a candidate for a particular position, we can, with their consent, find them another role with us – possibly even a more suitable role. Motivation and an open dialogue are key in the interview. It should be a matter of getting mutually acquainted. That’s why I advise candidates to be authentic and think about what they say. And also to ask questions during the interview to find out if both sides are a good fit. Candidates can do particularly well if they impress us with their skills and abilities and explain how they want to realize their potential in their job and at PostFinance.

What is the recruitment process like at PostFinance, and what is important for you in the process?

Candidates can apply online, either through our job portal or through other channels such as LinkedIn. Together with the manager, we decide who is to be shortlisted. Once the shortlist has been made, the first interview takes place directly between the manager and the potential employee. The main aim is to get to know each other, to introduce the candidate to PostFinance, to show them what the job entails and to explain what their day-to-day tasks will involve. The second interview goes into more depth. We assess their professional qualifications, and depending on the role, we may carry out assessments as part of the application process or offer the opportunity to meet the team on the premises. Once the decision is made, the manager informs the candidate whether their application has been accepted or not. Our goal is to fill the vacancy with the right person. 

Dominique, how did you find the job application process?

Very simple, very quick and very positive. As Nimisha already explained, I was able to submit my documents online. I was contacted just a few days later and invited to an online interview with the manager and the team. Luckily, I wasn’t expecting a classic interview, but rather just a chance to get to know each other. About a week later, I had a second meeting with the manager and Nimisha. This exchange was also open and pleasant. I particularly appreciated the transparency regarding the salary. After I’d accepted the job offer over the phone, I received written confirmation of my employment and resigned from my previous job at the end of March. I then received all the documents – including the employment contract – by e-mail and was able to sign online.

You started at PostFinance on 3 July 2023. What was your first day at work like, and what was your experience of the culture in your first 90 days?

I was a bit nervous on my first day at work. But many of the team were there and gave me and another colleague who started at the same time as me a warm welcome. First, my workspace had to be set up, and then there was a tour of the building. Each team member introduced themselves and outlined their responsibilities. Our colleagues have taken us under their wings as mentors and sparring partners. Of course, the open and constructive culture at PostFinance also helps. Everyone is understanding, solution-oriented and strives to do the best possible at all times. Contributing your own ideas and opinions is not only tolerated but encouraged. I find the mindset really cool, and exploring the new work world is very exciting.

Would you recommend people who are interested to apply for a job at PostFinance?

Staff who are unfamiliar with the bank have to get used to all the abbreviations, as I did, and it took me a while to find my way around the large premises. But no one should be put off by this. PostFinance is a fantastic employer and takes care of its staff. And what I particularly like is that everyone works together towards the same goal and on an equal footing.

Nimisha, what do you particularly appreciate about PostFinance?

PostFinance is a modern and an attractive employer. In addition to the excellent employment conditions, I particularly appreciate our corporate culture. The uncomplicated and appreciative way of interacting with each other is very appealing to me. I enjoy the fact that I can shape and actively contribute to many things. We are allowed and able to make a difference. I appreciate all this and much more about PostFinance.