The GCC held an event with a panel and moderator from Bloomberg, the financial data software company. Bloomberg provides a financial data analysis service to a variety of clients. They routinely improve their software to provide the most accurate and insightful information to their clients. They described themselves as having the following key facets: data, analytics, news, communications, execution, and service.
With regard to their climate, the culture is fast-paced, social, and collaborative. They also display a commitment to diversity with their nine employer resource groups (ERGs)/affinity groups. The organizational structure is relatively flat with opportunities for growth and collaboration across many departments. On another note, a senior friend who used to be a representative for Bloomberg shared that full-time employees are not paid very well which is why she chose to decline their offer and go work for a consulting firm after she graduates.
The moderator and panelists both gave advice on applying for jobs at Bloomberg. The most important factors are demonstrated interest, displayed through internships, clubs, portfolios, relevant coursework, hobbies, et cetera, and the aptitude to learn. It seems that most, if not all, of the positions, are begun with a rigorous training program so an internship here yields remarkable results. Further, they stressed the unimportance of one’s major (with panelists with degrees including Psych/Neuro, Econ, and American Studies). They shared that no technical proficiency is required for most of their jobs but that experience in data analysis and Excel are wonderful additions to one’s resume. For more practicalities, the moderator emphasized matching your resume to the job description. He said that all Bloomberg postings are specific and comprehensive so matching the two is helpful and efficient. There are a variety of sophomore opportunities but the bulk of internships are reserved for juniors/rising seniors.
And, while these internships can lead to full-time employment offers, only a quarter of the incoming Bloomberg full-time employees is filled by interns meaning there is hope yet if you cannot secure an internship. Once working at Bloomberg, they offer a multitude of opportunities for self-study and professional growth. All employees have access to LinkedIn Learning, Bloomberg University, and the opportunity for tuition reimbursement for courses/degrees relevant to their work.
