Commodities - Not sure what to do after internship

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a roadmap to help you navigate your path in commodities trading after your internship:

1. Maximize Your Internship Experience

• Build Relationships: Commodities trading is highly relationship-driven. Use your internship to network with traders, analysts, and other professionals on the desk. Demonstrate your interest and eagerness to learn.
• Learn the Fundamentals: Absorb as much as you can about the oil and gas markets, trading strategies, and risk management. Ask questions and show initiative.
• Showcase Your Value: If possible, contribute to projects or tasks that highlight your analytical skills, market understanding, or ability to solve problems.

2. Position Yourself for Full-Time Roles

• Target Trading Development Programs (TDPs): These programs are a great way to break into physical trading. Companies like Trafigura, Vitol, BP, and Shell offer structured TDPs that groom candidates for trading roles.
• Recruiting Process for TDPs:
  • Application: Typically involves submitting a CV and answering market-related or strategic questions (e.g., risk management or investment ideas).
  • Interviews: Expect multiple rounds, including technical questions, market scenarios, and behavioral assessments. Some firms may also include case studies or group exercises.
  • Preparation: Research the company’s trading focus, understand their markets, and be ready to discuss current events in commodities.

3. Leverage Your Internship for Networking

• Stay Connected: Keep in touch with the professionals you meet during your internship. They can provide insights into the industry and may even refer you to opportunities.
• Expand Your Network: Attend industry events, join commodity trading forums, and connect with alumni or professionals in the field.

4. Develop Relevant Skills

• Market Knowledge: Stay updated on oil and gas markets, geopolitical events, and macroeconomic trends.
• Technical Skills: Learn Excel modeling, VBA, and Python for data analysis. Familiarize yourself with trading platforms and tools.
• Certifications: Consider certifications like the Energy Risk Professional (ERP) or courses in physical trading to strengthen your profile.

5. Alternative Paths

• If TDPs are highly competitive, consider roles in logistics, trade finance, or operations at commodity firms. These roles can serve as stepping stones to trading desks.
• Internships or roles at commodity producers, consumers, or brokers (e.g., Marex Spectron) can also provide valuable experience.

6. Plan Ahead

• Before Your Internship: Research the desk you’ll be joining, understand the basics of oil and gas trading, and brush up on technical skills.
• After Your Internship: Reflect on your experience, identify areas for improvement, and start preparing for TDP applications or other relevant roles.

By focusing on networking, skill-building, and strategic positioning, you’ll increase your chances of breaking into commodities trading full-time. Good luck!

Sources: Physical Commodity Trading, Fashionably Late: 6 Steps for Off-Cycle Recruiting, Q&A: I'm an Agricultural Commodities Trader, Q&A: I'm an Agricultural Commodities Trader, Correlation between top degrees and a career in commodities