How to Apply for the Discovery Internship Programme: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Discovery Internship Programme is designed for recent graduates looking to gain practical experience in the financial services sector. This program aims to equip participants with essential administrative, organizational, and customer service skills. Before you begin, ensure you have a Grade 12/Matric certificate and a university degree, as these are the fundamental prerequisites for this opportunity.

Step 1: Understand the Internship Role and Responsibilities

Action: Thoroughly review the internship description, focusing on the core duties and expectations.
Expected Outcome: A clear understanding of what the Servicing Administrator role entails, including specific tasks and the overall purpose within the Servicing team.
Mistakes to Avoid: Skimming the responsibilities section, assuming tasks are similar to previous roles without confirming, or not understanding the specific Discovery Invest products mentioned.

• Key Responsibilities to Note:
• Processing all functions within the Invest servicing team.
• Gaining knowledge of all Discovery Invest products.
• Assisting with queries via telephone and email.
• Ensuring feedback is provided and tasks are not left unattended.
• Handling ad-hoc tasks assigned by management.
• Building relationships with financial advisors and colleagues.

Step 2: Assess Your Qualifications Against Requirements

Action: Compare your academic background and personal attributes to the stated requirements for the internship.
Expected Outcome: Confirmation that you meet the minimum educational qualifications and possess the personal attributes and skills Discovery is seeking.
Mistakes to Avoid: Overlooking the importance of personal attributes, assuming your existing skills are sufficient without self-assessment, or not having your Grade 12 and degree documents readily available.

• Essential Requirements:

• Grade 12 / Matric certificate

• University degree

• Key Personal Attributes and Skills:

• Questioning techniques

• Customer Service Orientation

• Conflict handling

• Good communication skills

• Relationship building skills

• Results orientation

• Assertiveness

• Positive attitude

• Commitment

• Time management skills

Step 3: Prepare Your Application Materials

Action: Gather and prepare all necessary documents for your application, including your CV and any other requested information.
Expected Outcome: A polished and complete application package ready for submission.
Mistakes to Avoid: Submitting an outdated or poorly formatted CV, not tailoring your CV to highlight relevant skills and experiences, or missing the deadline due to procrastination.

• CV Preparation:
• Ensure your CV is professional, up-to-date, and highlights your academic achievements and any relevant work or volunteer experience.
• Emphasize skills mentioned in the internship description, such as communication, customer service, and organizational abilities.
• Consider using a CV builder tool if you need assistance creating a professional document.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Action: Navigate to the application portal and complete the online application form accurately and thoroughly.
Expected Outcome: A successfully submitted application for the Discovery Internship Programme.
Mistakes to Avoid: Filling out the application form hastily, making typos or errors in personal details, or failing to attach required documents.

• Application Process:
• Click the “Apply Now” link provided.
• Complete all sections of the online application form with accurate information.
• Upload your prepared CV and any other supporting documents as requested.
• Review your entire application before final submission to catch any errors.

Step 5: Follow Up and Stay Informed

Action: Monitor your email for any communication from Discovery regarding your application status and stay updated on any further requirements.
Expected Outcome: Timely awareness of your application’s progress and prompt response to any requests from the recruitment team.
Mistakes to Avoid: Not checking your email regularly (including spam folders), assuming no news means no progress, or not being prepared for potential interview stages.

• Staying Updated:
• Regularly check the email address you provided in your application.
• Be prepared for potential follow-up questions or requests for additional information.
• Keep track of the application closing date, though it is not specified in this instance.

Next Steps

Once your application is submitted, you can continue to build your professional profile by exploring other opportunities and refining your skills. If selected, you will embark on a valuable learning journey with Discovery.