Inside the Jana Spring Banker Program – Training Modules Explained

The Jana Spring Banker Program, officially known as the Aspiring Bankers Program, is a collaborative initiative between Jana Small Finance Bank and Manipal Academy of BFSI. Designed to nurture the next generation of banking professionals, this 3-month program equips graduates with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to excel as Personal Bankers. With a focus on customer-centricity and industry-relevant training, the program offers a robust pipeline to a rewarding career with Jana Small Finance Bank. Here’s an in-depth look at the training modules and what makes this program a launchpad for aspiring bankers.

Program Overview

The Jana Spring Banker Program is a 3-month course costing ₹99,000 (plus taxes), structured into:

• 1 month of campus training at Manipal Academy of BFSI in Bengaluru, with a ₹10,000/month stipend.
• 2 months of on-the-job training (OJT) at Jana Small Finance Bank branches, with a ₹20,000/month stipend.
  Upon completion, candidates join Jana Small Finance Bank as Assistant Managers in the role of Personal Bankers, with an annual salary of ₹3,40,000 plus performance-based incentives. The program fee is fully refunded within two years of employment, making it a financially viable option for graduates.

The program is open to individuals with a graduate degree, focusing on building a talent pipeline for Jana Small Finance Bank, particularly in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Its training modules are designed to align with the bank’s customer-centric ethos and the evolving demands of the banking industry.

Training Modules Explained

The Jana Spring Banker Program combines theoretical learning, practical application, and hands-on experience to create well-rounded banking professionals. Below is a breakdown of the key training modules based on available information and industry-standard banking programs.

1. Banking Fundamentals

Objective: Provide a strong foundation in core banking concepts.
Content:

• Overview of banking operations, including savings accounts, fixed deposits, loans, and other financial products.
• Understanding the role of small finance banks in promoting financial inclusion.
• Basics of digital banking, including online banking platforms and mobile apps.
• Regulatory frameworks governed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

Delivery: Classroom sessions at Manipal Academy of BFSI, using case studies, presentations, and interactive discussions led by industry experts.
Why It Matters: This module ensures participants grasp the essentials of banking, preparing them to handle customer queries and transactions confidently.

2. Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Objective: Develop skills to build and maintain strong customer relationships.
Content:

• Techniques for effective communication and active listening.
• Strategies for identifying customer needs and offering tailored financial solutions.
• Handling customer complaints and resolving issues professionally.
• Building long-term relationships to enhance customer retention and loyalty.

Delivery: Role-playing exercises, group discussions, and simulations to mimic real-world customer interactions.
Why It Matters: As Personal Bankers, graduates will focus on customer acquisition and retention, making CRM a critical skill for driving revenue and customer satisfaction.

3. Lead Generation and Sales Techniques

Objective: Equip participants with skills to drive business growth through sales.
Content:

• Identifying potential customers and generating leads for banking products.
• Cross-selling and upselling financial products like loans, insurance, and investment options.
• Sales pitch development and negotiation skills.
• Understanding sales targets and performance metrics.

Delivery: Practical workshops and mock sales scenarios, with feedback from trainers.
Why It Matters: Personal Bankers are responsible for revenue growth, and this module prepares participants to meet sales targets while maintaining a customer-first approach.

4. Account Management

Objective: Train candidates to manage customer accounts effectively.
Content:

• Account opening and maintenance processes.
• KYC (Know Your Customer) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) compliance.
• Monitoring account activities and identifying opportunities for additional services.
• Managing documentation and ensuring regulatory compliance.

Delivery: Hands-on training with real-world case studies and exposure to banking software.
Why It Matters: Accurate and compliant account management is crucial for operational efficiency and customer trust.

5. Digital Banking and Technology

Objective: Familiarize participants with digitized banking services.
Content:

• Using digital platforms for transactions, customer support, and service delivery.
• Understanding cybersecurity and fraud prevention in digital banking.
• Leveraging data analytics for customer insights and personalized offerings.
• Introduction to Jana Small Finance Bank’s digital tools and apps.

Delivery: Interactive sessions with technology demos and practical exercises.
Why It Matters: With Jana’s vision to be a leading digitized bank, this module ensures participants are adept at using technology to enhance customer experiences.

6. On-the-Job Training (OJT)

Objective: Provide real-world banking experience.
Content:

• Practical application of classroom learning in Jana Small Finance Bank branches.
• Shadowing experienced bankers to learn daily operations.
• Handling customer transactions, resolving queries, and managing sales targets.
• Exposure to branch operations, including cash management and compliance checks.

Delivery: 2 months of supervised OJT at Jana branches, with mentorship from bank staff.
Why It Matters: OJT bridges the gap between theory and practice, preparing candidates to transition seamlessly into full-time roles as Personal Bankers.

7. Soft Skills and Professional Development

Objective: Enhance interpersonal and professional skills for career success.
Content:

• Effective communication, teamwork, and leadership skills.
• Time management and prioritization in a fast-paced banking environment.
• Professional ethics and workplace etiquette.
• Stress management and adaptability in dynamic scenarios.

Delivery: Workshops, group activities, and feedback sessions.
Why It Matters: These skills are essential for building rapport with customers and colleagues, ensuring long-term career growth.

Unique Features of the Training

• Customer-Centric Focus: The curriculum is designed with the customer at the heart of every transaction, aligning with Jana’s commitment to exceptional service.
• Expert-Led Training: Delivered by Manipal Academy of BFSI’s industry experts and Jana Small Finance Bank professionals, ensuring relevance and quality.
• Immersive Learning: Combines classroom learning, simulations, and OJT for a holistic experience.
• Incentives for Excellence: Top 20% performers receive an international trip as a sales incentive, and the top 10% are groomed for leadership roles in the CEO and MD club.

Program Benefits

• Assured Career Path: Graduates join Jana Small Finance Bank as Assistant Managers, with a clear trajectory for growth. Top performers can be promoted within 18 months.
• Financial Support: Stipends during training (₹10,000/month for campus, ₹20,000/month for OJT) and full program fee reimbursement within two years of employment.
• Prestigious Certification: A Post Graduate Diploma from Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), enhancing employability.
• Financial Assistance: Available for the top 20% of deserving candidates, subject to internal guidelines.

Considerations for Applicants

• Eligibility: Open to graduates with any degree, making it accessible to diverse candidates.
• Cost: The ₹99,000 fee (plus taxes) covers training, tuition, boarding, and lodging for the 1-month campus training. Candidates must cover travel and accommodation during OJT.
• Selection Process: Involves a Level 1 written test (verbal, analytical, numerical ability, written English, and listening comprehension) and a Level 2 online panel interview with Manipal and Jana stakeholders. An application fee of ₹250 + GST is required.
• Location Flexibility: Postings are based on vacancies in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, requiring openness to relocation.

Why Choose the Jana Spring Banker Program?

The Jana Spring Banker Program stands out for its intensive, customer-focused training and guaranteed job placement with a leading small finance bank. By blending classroom learning with real-world experience, it ensures graduates are “first day, first hour” ready for their roles. The program’s emphasis on digital banking, CRM, and sales aligns with the evolving banking landscape, while its financial support and reimbursement policies make it accessible. For graduates aspiring to build a dynamic career in banking, this program offers a structured, rewarding pathway to success.

Ready to embark on your banking journey? Visit Jana Small Finance Bank’s Aspiring Bankers Program page to apply and learn more about this transformative opportunity!