“I am really happy with how things are shaping up”

Starting a career doesn’t always go the way we plan — sometimes, it leads us somewhere even better. For Aanchal Joshi, an alumna from Apeejay School of Management (ASM), Batch 2025, specialising in Marketing and Operations Management, the journey took a new turn when she secured a placement at Edelweiss as a Relationship Manager. Today, she manages client portfolios, guides investment decisions and is confidently navigating the world of financial sales — a field she initially never thought of pursuing. In this conversation, she shares how she prepared for her placement, the skills that helped her excel, and her advice for juniors stepping into the corporate world.

Read edited excerpts:

Can you describe your typical workday at Edelweiss? What does your role involve?

At Edelweiss, my core responsibilities revolve around client acquisition and portfolio management. It’s a target-based role, where each month I have specific goals to achieve. I advise clients — especially senior and ultra-senior investors — on investments that can enhance their existing portfolios.

For example, we offer Structured Products, a market-linked investment option for those who want higher returns like the stock market — but without risking their capital. These products come in variants, so if someone prefers safer returns or wants to avoid market volatility, we have suitable options for them too.

You specialised in marketing. How did you feel when you received a placement in financial sales?

Honestly, I never imagined myself in finance or sales. But Edelweiss is a top wealth-management firm with a strong reputation in the industry. So, I told myself — “Give it a shot!” Today, I’m really happy with how things are shaping up.

Since this wasn’t your background, how did you handle the interview?

The questions were mainly about communication skills, pitching and client handling. I had prepared basic finance concepts like mutual funds and insurance, but what truly helped me secure the role was my ability to connect with people.

Later, Edelweiss trained us for 2–3 months, introducing us to their financial products and research tools — so I could build expertise while working.

How did ASM support you in your placement journey?

ASM prepared us for real corporate challenges, not just theory. We had role-plays and sales simulations, mock interviews and networking events, internship exposure and software workshops, seminars with hiring companies and daily placement preparation really boosted my confidence.

What advice would you give to your juniors?

Be curious and open-minded. Don’t restrict yourself only to your specialisation — sometimes the best opportunities are outside your comfort zone. Keep building skills through internships, projects, LinkedIn networking, and start early instead of waiting for placements.