27 Bank of the West Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Bank of the West interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. Do you have any experience or knowledge in detecting counterfeit cash or checks?
How to Answer
Over the years, the banking and retail industries have had to invest a lot into the detection of fraudulent checks and counterfeit money as fraudsters have become more and more savvy in the making their counterfeit currency look more real. If you don't have direct experience working with the different detection techniques, be sure to do as much research as possible prior to your interview to speak knowledgeably about the different ways money is being counterfeited and the steps banks are taking to counteract it. If you do have knowledge and experience, be sure to talk about they things you've used to help prevent the passing of counterfeit money up to this point in your career.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"During my time working as a cashier in high school, I have used the counterfeit pen for bills that were $20, $50 and $100. As well, I have received briefing on new currency when it is released, like the new bills with the holographs in them. If hired for this role, I'd look forward to being trained and learning more about the advancements in counterfeiting and how this role would help negate that."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"While I don't have hands on experience handling cash or check transactions in my prior work, I am familiar with the ways that the treasury department is marking bills now to prevent counterfeiting. I would know how to look for specific watermarks on each bill, the raised printing and the color-shifting ink on the numerals in the lower right corner. If hired on the team here at Bank of the West, I would want to learn more about fraudulent checks and what measures I would need to put in place in this role to help ensure that none passed through my hands."
2. What is the greatest challenge you have faced in your career so far? How did you overcome it?
How to Answer
Consider sharing a professional challenge or a situation you overcame in school. Bank of the West wants to hear about the situation and the action you took. Interviewers also want to hear about results. Give an example that demonstrates your perseverance and proactive approach to facing a challenge or conflict.
1st Answer Example
"When I was working for my last company, we had a drastic shift in leadership that required the organization to adapt quickly to new ways of doing things. This required me to tap into my ability to lead change management for my work and my team. To make this process smoother, I scheduled frequent updates with my team, peers, and leadership to ensure all deliverables were being met on time and the transition to new processes was being handled with the utmost professionalism not to impact the level of service our clients received. It was a great learning experience for me and the entire organization."
2nd Answer Example
"The greatest challenge I have faced in my career was the culture of nepotism in my previous position. It is very challenging to overcome morality based difficulties in the workplace while maintaining a positive attitude and keeping motivated. I overcame these feelings by getting to know my co-workers on a more personal level. Making strong connections with others, who were facing the same difficulties as I was, was very helpful."
3. If hired for this role with Bank of the West, how would you handle a large workload of clients working through a mortgage process?
How to Answer
At the heart of this question, your interviewer is looking to find out how you manage a busy workload by having you talk about your organization skills on the job. In your answer, talk about the skills you have and the tools that you use to stay organized and on-track while handling a large workload. Don't hesitate to talk about the software programs that you use and any other tactics that you use to ensure that all deadlines are met and no issues occur with clients because of too large of a workload. In the end, your interviewer wants to walk away from this question knowing that you'll be able to provide top notch service to the clients of Bank of the West.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I'm able to handle a very large workload with my ability to stay organized on the job. If you could take a tour of my office, you'd see that I maintain a neat and clean desk with a very organized file cabinet of my current workload. If I need to shift gears and move on to work with another client, I can easily access information on the fly and keep moving. I also utilize my Outlook calendar to set deadline reminders to stay on track of closing deadlines and paperwork requirements and the tasks function within the program helps me stay right on track with all of my clients I am working with at a given time."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"During my time working a large client load as a mortgage consultant, my success was due to my efficiency and organization on the job. If hired for this role with Bank of the West, my efficiency would be very high because of my experience with the entire mortgage loan closing process and my ability to handle certain challenges quickly with that experience. From there, my organizational skills within the loan process software I have experience with kick in to help me keep each client on track with their loan process."
4. What are one or two of the aspects that you think you would love about our Teller job at Bank of the West?
How to Answer
While your interviewer is asking this question to verify that you understand the role and life with Bank of the West, this is your opportunity to sell your skills and abilities to your interviewer as well. As you prepare for this question, think of your best skills that you find the most enjoyable to yourself and match them with the aspect of this job. As you answer, speak with passion about the aspects you will find the most enjoyable and explain why those aspects will be vital to your success in this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"The biggest thing that I am most excited for in this role at Bank of the West is the opportunity to now interact with customers on a face to face basis. As a people person by nature, I've felt so held back working for the last four years with customers over the phone. My positive attitude and friendly approach would be a huge asset to your customers and I would make it a priority to always be that smiling face that people encounter when they come to handle their personal business at Bank of the West."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"After talking with my cousin that has been a Bank Teller for her entire career, I know that I would love the variety and problem solving aspects of this job. I would look forward to the fact that no two workdays are the same and that I'd be working with individual customers with every transaction. As a person that thrives thinking on their feet, working with unique customers would give me the opportunity to help them troubleshoot issues and find solutions for them."
5. What are your thoughts on working in a position here at Bank of the West that had a lot of routine tasks each day?
How to Answer
A position as a Teller with Bank of the West will entail many job functions that can get repetitive from day to day and your interviewer is looking to hear that you are able to perform these tasks with focus and ease each day that you are required to. As you prepare for and answer this question, be sure to talk about past positions where you've thrived with routine tasks. As well, keep your answers focused on the positive by explaining why these routine tasks are important and how you always pay attention to detail no matter how mundane a task may be.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"I would have to say that I handle routine work very well. In my current role, a majority of my day is handling routine labeling and shipping tasks. By staying in the moment and remaining focused in my work, I ensure that I take all necessary steps each and every time to ensure that my customer's needs are satisfied each and every time. In this role, the customers at Bank of the West rely on accuracy and timeliness and I would be able to bring that in any duty that I was tasked with."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"For me, an end goal, customer focused approach is important in any work that I do and it is extremely important for very routine tasks. While my current position has a lot of routine tasks that I handle every day and week, understanding why these tasks are important helps me to stay on track and on time with them. If hired to join the team at Bank of the West, I would make sure that the focus of my orientation would be for me to understand how each job duty positively influences customers that I interact with."
6. What do you know about our services here at Bank of the West and why do you feel we'd be a great place to work?
How to Answer
With this question, your interviewer is looking to see that you have done your prep work and research on the company for this interview while also looking to hear why you feel they are set apart from their competition in the banking industry. Most banks have very similar operating structures and company cultures, so be sure that you try to differentiate Bank of the West from their competitors in your answer. If possible, try to relate your answer to the organization's mission statement and or core values that would be found on their website.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"As a well known and reputable bank, I have heard from many friends and family members that your checking, savings and loan services are top notch. As I researched a great place to begin a career as a Taller, I was really attracted to your core values of making a difference and taking ownership. As a person that has the desire to be emotionally invested into my work, these are two things that I hold near and dear to my heart as well. If given the chance to join the team here at Bank of the West, I would give it my all to e accountable to your customers in making a small difference in their day."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"What I really love about Bank of the West and what draw me this role here is your commitment to community service and being an advocate for the lower income class of our society. Many people with lower income and poor credit are often not given the same financial opportunities as others and I really feel great about the things that you do to be better for them. As well, I am firmly rooted in community service and would be all in with these efforts if given the opportunity to join the team here at Bank of the West."
7. Tell me about your favorite manager. What did you enjoy most about working with them?
How to Answer
Bank of the West wants to hear what excites you and keeps you motivated in a co-working relationship with your boss. They are interested in your values and want to hear about your experience developing relationships with managers.
1st Answer Example
"I love my current boss because she leads with a collaborative and team-oriented style. We have regular team huddles to provide ongoing communication about process changes or upcoming events."
2nd Answer Example
"My favorite manager was my very first manager when I worked at Company X. She was attentive and spent a lot of time mentoring me. I feel that many of my positive work-based skills and qualities are because of how she interacted with and trained me."
8. What would you do if you saw a colleague breaking company policy? What if they were stealing something as little as $5?
How to Answer
While this may seem like a question with a very obvious answer, your interviewer is looking to hear that you value honesty and integrity in any environment that you work in and that you'll do all you can do to promote that within the team at Bank of the West. As you answer, talk about ways in which you've shown honesty and integrity in your work while making it clear that you'll do the right thing if confronted with these situations while working at Bank of the West.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
Answer Example
"In any situation where I saw a colleague being unethical and breaking company policy, I would confront them right away in a professional manner. Using my best judgement, I would escalate it to a manager if necessary and would absolutely do that in the case of theft. Last year, a coworker of mine was excluding necessary steps of our nightly cash counting procedures. While she may have likely still been doing things accurately in the end and just trying to save time, I talked to her about the importance of taking all necessary steps in regard to accuracy. She thanked me for my input and always used our steps from that point forward."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
9. What ideas could you bring to Bank of the West to help grow revenue in this branch?
How to Answer
If hired as the next Branch Manager at Bank of the West, one item that you will be continually tasked and evaluated on is your ability to help grow revenue at the branch through new customer acquisitions and increased sales of banking products. This question gives you the chance to cite your revenue growing skills and how you will apply them to the banking industry. Prior to your interview, be sure to do your research on growth and revenue in the banking industry and think of a creative way or two that can really sell your interviewer on your ability to help drive increased revenues at the branch you are interviewing with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"While I will always be a firm believer that traditional marketing techniques are key to creating new business and revenue, an outside the box approach can always be vital as well. Here at Bank of the West, I would make it a priority for frontline staff like Tellers to be trained in advanced sales skills to help upsell customers in their regular conversations with them. Customers of Bank of the West typically see the frontline workers the most and Tellers are most likely to steer your customers towards revenue generating products."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"Over the past five years, I've become more entrenched in data analytics in my current role to help drive revenue and I think the banking industry can surely use data analytics to help predict customer trends. With the rapidly changing service combinations that banks put out, data analytics could be key in helping predict customer preferences and that data could be put to use to put out the most preferred packages for future customers."
10. Customer service is the name of our game at Bank of the West. If hired for this role, how would you be able to provide the best customer service possible to our clients?
How to Answer
While following all of the steps of a mortgage process and handling client inquiries along the way is the foundation to success in this position, you will be relied on to provide the best customer service possible to all clients because the mortgage section at Bank of the West is just one small piece of the pie in their business. If a client feels like they weren't handled with respect and compassion, they could take all of their business elsewhere and see an impact financially because of it. To show that you can provide top-notch customer service in this role, talk about how you provide a personalized experience for the clients you work with and talk about the interpersonal skills you possess that make this possible.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"With any customer that I work with, I take the time to get to know them and listen to their thoughts, concerns and questions right from the start. I like to hold what I call an intake session to listen to all of these things. After hearing each customer out, I then talk about what I can do to alleviate their concerns and answer their questions right from the start. From that point forward, my customer service skills go the extra mile by staying in constant communication with my clients through either email or phone because I feel that over communication is important right from the start. As human, we have a desire to know what is happening all of the time and I make time to do this for my clients. Last, my customer service starts and ends with a positive attitude and a smile on my face. I take pride in being a front facing representative of my company and work my tail off to ensure that customers know that my company is there for them."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"In my experience, provide the best customer service comes down to doing the little things right. While often overlooked by some in our industry, a smiling face and simple conversations to get to know your customers can go a long way towards building a foundation for a great long-term relationship and I don't take these little things lightly. Even though I may be experiencing a huge workload or stress somewhere else on the job, I am focused and happy when I am face to face or on the phone with the client. At those times, they deserve 100% of my attention and focus and they get that every single time."
11. How do you respond to problems that require a quick solution?
How to Answer
You may experience a variety of issues related to customers or technical issues while working in the banking industry. Give an example that demonstrates your confidence and your strength as a decision maker and a problem-solver.
1st Answer Example
"I can think quickly and can do mental math, problem-solve, and mention other products and services to offer the customers. In the case of an urgent matter, I trust my instincts and can quickly evaluate situations to recognize the next steps and act accordingly. I feel secure in my ability to think and act quickly while I'm working in ABC position for Bank of the West."
2nd Answer Example
"When faced with a situation where a quick solution is required, I will rely on my training, my memory, and my instincts. I am confident in my ability to find a solution to last minute, or unexpected, problems."
12. The next Branch Manager that we hire here at Bank of the West needs to be adaptable and flexible as our market demands change over time. What have you done in recent years to promote your own personal and professional development to promote adaptability
How to Answer
To remain successful in a continually changing environment, Bank of the West will expect you to be a flexible and adaptable leader in this role to help ensure the success of the branch into the future. To help drill down to your ability to do this, your interviewer is looking to get insight on how you have handled your own professional development to remain adaptable to your job. Prior to your interview, be sure to consider all of the training and development that you've done over time and talk about a thing or two that really exemplifies your will and desire to get better at your work and, in turn, the success of your organization.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"Last year, I participated in a training seminar in my current industry that focused on providing excellent customer service in the digital age and the training really helped focus my mindset moving forward as a manager. I pulled several great marketing and customer service tactics that would be great in many industries, but I also feel that they'd be excellent in the banking industry."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"Over the past five years, I've had some great training on employment law, ethics and presentation skills that will all be relevant to this role. But for me personally, the greatest thing that I've done with my family is volunteering at the local food pantry. While it has taught my children many valuable lessons, I have taken a great sense of humility from this time into my work life."
13. We pride ourselves on teamwork here at Bank of the West and this role in Client Services relies on teamwork. What are the top qualities you would bring to a team based atmosphere here?
How to Answer
At the heart of this question falls your interviewers need to determine how well you will work with others on the team at Bank of the West. You will be working with high level advisors and managers that are under a lot of pressure to perform in their jobs and your communications with them will either alleviate some of that stress or add to it. To ensure that your interviewer walks away from your conversation knowing that you are a team player that keeps the end goals of the company in mind, focus your answer on your effective communication skills, your knowledge of everyone's role on the team and your knowledge of what your role on the team will be.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"As with any team that I have worked on in the past, my priority is knowing that everyone has an important piece in the overall success of the team. In customer service, this is knowing who to contact with the right questions and who to guide customers to when needed. This ensures that our work is done efficiently on our end of things and that our customers are handled efficiently and effectively. If hired here at Bank of the West, my first goal would be to get to know everyone on the team that I would work with, what their roles are and how to best communicate with them."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"My top quality is my ability to communicate, both verbally and through writing. I have excellent interpersonal speaking and listening skills and my past colleagues have always appreciated this. Here at Bank of the West, your clients would appreciate this in my work as well. I am a very efficient and effective written communicator as well and this would be very beneficial at a company like Bank of the West, where your offices are spread throughout the country and I can imagine that email communication is vitally important."
14. In your mind, why is it important that Bank of the West focuses on customer service?
How to Answer
The customers are the lifeblood of a bank and without them, Bank of the West wouldn't be able to thrive or possibly even stay open for business. With this question, your interviewer will be most interested in hearing why you believe that customer service is important for this role as a Teller and then hear what skills you will help bring to this role. As you prepare for your interview, be sure to think about your prior customer service experience and think of ways that you can draw upon that experience in this role with Bank of the West. In the end, make sure that your interviewer walks away from your conversation confident in your ability to provide the best customer service possible.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"Having worked in retail for all of my career up to this point, I have customer service engrained in my brain and know I have the skills necessary in this area to be the best I can be for your customers. I have to be knowledgeable about products, pricing and options to be able to answer any and all questions that come my way. I also need to be a great communicator and have excellent listening skills to really get to the individual needs of each customer. In the banking world, I imagine that competition between institutions is fierce and often the main draw between your institution and a competitor is the excellent customer service that you provide. If hired at Bank of the West, I'd look forward to helping be this differentiating factor for existing and future customers."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"Customers in any industry have become more tech savvy and self aware now more than ever and the service they are provided is often the key determining factor in where they take their business. I'm sure that Bank of the West puts a lot of time and resources into training staff in customer service skills. Coming into this role, I have a lot of extensive training in customer service. In the past few years, I've attended online and in-person trainings on telephone customer service, upselling skills and the generational gaps in customer service expectations and would love the opportunity to showcase my skills with your customers here at Bank of the West."
15. How do you define success?
How to Answer
Think about your definition of success. Be sure to tie your answer into the success that you plan to bring to this particular position, should you be offered the role with Bank of the West.
1st Answer Example
"I define success through my ability to reach the goals that are set out for me. On a personal level, the things I wish to achieve in my life. On a work level, the targets that are set out for me as well as the professional development that I seek."
2nd Answer Example
"For me, success is achieved when I can be proud of what I have accomplished in the day, and can also be proud of the attitude that I kept while meeting those accomplishments."
16. The clients of a financial firm like Bank of the West can display an arrange of emotions when they work with our Client Services team. How would you handle a situation where a client was very angry?
How to Answer
Whether due to a large amount of money lost on the market or a client feels they were ill-advised by an Advisor, your job as a Client Services Representative will at some point or another deal with a very angry client. For this answer, your interviewer will be looking to hear that you do what is necessary to stay calm and stay focused on finding a resolution. If possible, use a specific example of a time you had to do exactly this and explain how effective communication was critical in making the situation right for the client.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"As you can see from my resume, I've spent the last three years in customer service relations for a large insurance company. As you can imagine, a large majority of my customer interactions were with upset customers. I've been called names that I can't repeat here in this interview and my key to working through these situations was to remain calm and not take things personally. Like the financial world, the insurance business is a very life altering experience and a loss or damage to an item is very stressful. I tried to put myself in the customers shoes, see things from their perspective and do my best to ease their situation. In this role with Bank of the West, these same skills would be vital for me to find solutions or the right person to talk to if needed."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"First and foremost, an active listening approach is the first step to lowering the tension from an angry customer. A couple of months ago, we had a very angry customer come onsite to complain about a defective product that cut his hand pretty badly. The customer came onsite to complain even before receiving emergency care, which was apparent that he needed. First, I let him release his anger and it was not a pretty sight. Then I calmly repeated back what he had said and then explained what our policy allowed me to do at that time. Looking back, my sincere approach and calm demeanor helped calm him down and later that day, my manager had a formal complaint sent to the manufacturer and we were assured that they'd be in contact with the customer."
17. If a customer at Bank of the West had increased savings as their main personal financial goal, what steps would you take with them to get them started down the right path?
How to Answer
As you look to interview for a Personal Banker position with Bank of the West, be sure to expect a question or two that really digs into the technical abilities that you would bring to the position in the form of a hypothetical situation that you will likely face in this role. This question is allowing your interviewer to gain insight into your knowledge of sound financial savings philosophies so be sure to talk about important aspects of a customer's finances that can impact their ability to save. As you answer, express that you would use a logical, yet tailored, approach with each customer in this situation.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"After I had done my due diligence in getting to know the need's of the customer, my first step would be educating them on setting a personal budget that allows for savings. I would take a keen look at their monthly income versus their monthly expenses while also taking into account their variable spending on a monthly basis. Often, by simply doing this, customers are dumbfounded by how much wasteful spending they have going on in their lives. While the customer makes the final decisions on how to best handle, I can use my expertise to help guide them on their savings journey."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"The first and most important step to this process is helping the customer truly see their financial situation by delving into their income and expenses. Based on that analysis, the customer then decides which of the factors of income and expenses can be altered to help increase their savings. From there, I would work with them on the best methods for saving and would take a personalized approach to recommending savings accounts or money market accounts with Bank of the West."
18. Where do you see yourself in five years?
How to Answer
If you are a recent college graduate or starting a new career, you may or may not know where you'd like to be in five years. Bank of the West wants to see that you think about the future and are actively working towards your goals. Better yet, they want to know how working for them will help you accomplish your goals! Share how this job will help you get one step closer to achieving your goals.
1st Answer Example
"I plan to continue working in the banking industry as a branch manager, working my way up through attending training and participating in your leadership development program. I am excited to start out in ABC position because I am confident that it will help me achieve my goal and broaden my skill set."
2nd Answer Example
"Being in a leadership role is important to me, so I plan to be working in a management based position at Bank of the West in the future. I will achieve this through continued education and leadership training while also proving my value to you through my everyday work ethic."
19. If working here at Bank of the West in this role and you found a more efficient way of handling a job duty or process, what steps would you take in order to ensure that your idea was heard?
How to Answer
Business process improvements are sought on a consistent basis in any industry and the banking industry is now exception. And because many of these process changes are initiated by frontline employees like Tellers, your interviewer is looking to hear that you will always have an open eye toward seeing improvements. As you answer this question, while there is no right or wrong answer, use a methodical approach in answering how you would approach this situation hypothetically. If you have a time that you did just this, be sure to explain that to your interviewer as well and walk through your thought process in that situation.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"In any role that I've taken on during my career, I take all of the extra time and effort that I can to learn every aspect of the job. This lets me really dissect every piece of a process and enables me to look for better ways of doing things. If I were to find a better way of handling a duty or process here at Bank of the West, I would likely first run my idea by a colleague or two to ensure that my thought process was sound. Then, I wouldn't hesitate to bring my idea up to my supervisor where I would explain my thought process and what the benefits would be."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"In my current role, I did just this a few months ago when I noticed that our triaging of incoming phone calls with customers wasn't as efficient as it could be. On my own, I started documenting incoming calls and tracking the number of times a caller had to be transferred to get to the correct person. Based on a couple of week's worth of data, I was able to draft a new routing system based on customer needs and take this to my manager. Even though it didn't take much extra effort, the work definitely paid off in regard to internal efficiency and customer satisfaction when we implemented a new system after some tweaking to my draft. With Bank of the West, I wouldn't hesitate to take this same approach on the job if I found a better way of doing things."
20. Describe a difficult problem and how you approached it.
How to Answer
Interviewers at Bank of the West like to see employees coming up with creative solutions. Problem-solving skills are highly regarded within the banking industry. Use an example that explains the complexity of the situation. You can also use the job description as a guide for some of the challenges you could encounter in this new role. Try to keep it relevant and relatable to the position.
1st Answer Example
"I took a client call that had a history of poor customer experiences with the organization. One after another, the customer was left frustrated on our banking processes and voiced their concerns in a manner that was unpleasant. I took the initiative to listen and understand their frustrations, then partnered with the different departments in the company to resolve the concerns and save the customer relationship."
2nd Answer Example
"While attending university, I was assigned a group project with a group of less than motivated individuals. My grades and performance were significant to me, so I approached the group with a leadership and mentorship mentality. I uncovered what motivated everyone on the team and took the initiative where others would not."
21. Suppose you were on the job here at Bank of the West and a customer came in to complain about a fee charged for an overdrawn account. How would you handle the situation with that customer?
How to Answer
As a Teller with :company, an important job expectation will be for you to handle customers that come to you with issues. While their issues can stem from a majority of reasons, your interviewer wants to know that you have the wherewithal to handle these situations with patience and a sense of calmness. As well, they'll be looking to hear that you have the ability to pull from the resources available to you to help resolve the situation. As you answer the hypothetical question, don't hesitate to draw upon past experiences where you've handled customer issues directly and use your experience in those to help project how you would handle similar situations with Bank of the West.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"If in this situation on the job here at Bank of the West, I feel it would be most important to hear the customer out and let them explain their situation. Then, I would talk about the bank's policies on overdrawing accounts and explain that there is no wiggle room within those policies. Most importantly, I would make it my responsibility to connect the customer with any available resources to help them prevent similar situations in the future. This helps the customer know that Bank of the West cares about their financial well-being and is willing to help them moving forward."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"In my current job, I often have to work with customers face to face when they enter our store with issues and I would take the same approach here that I do with them. First, I listen intently to their complaints and actively listen by explaining to them what I heard. Then I have to use my best judgement at hand to consider how to move forward to resolve their complaint. If the issue was a bad product, I follow our return policies and assist the customer as best as I can. If their issue involves our service, I direct them to the appropriate manager to resolve their situation. If hired for this role, I would work hard from the start to learn the ins and outs of all aspects of Bank of the West so I could be resourceful in working with customer complaints."
22. In your own personal life, what banking products do you use and what benefits do you see in using them?
How to Answer
With this question, your interviewer is seeking to first see what types of banking products you are familiar with by having you talk knowledgeably about the products that you use. Then, under the surface, your interviewer will be looking to see how you can help sell similar services to the customers at Bank of the West if you were hired for this role. As you answer the question, try to take a salesperson type of approach by highlighting the features and benefits of the services that you utilize with your current bank. Explain how they help you become more effective and efficient with your finances to really help your interviewer see that you have the sales type of approach if hired for this position.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"First and foremost, I was very glad to jump onboard the online banking format from its inception. The online format allows me to transfer funds between accounts and even deposit checks remotely without having to take a trip to town to the physical bank. On top of online banking, I definitely use online loan application services as well. I have found them to be super easy and timesaving for me as I imagine they are for your customers."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"I've really found it helpful to have all of my personal finance items with one institution. That includes loans, credit cards and checking accounts. And recently, I've learned to take great advantage of both MMA and CD accounts with my institution. I just really love the ease and convenience of this aspect and would be a great advocate of this for your customers here at Bank of the West if hired for this role."
23. As a Personal Banker at Bank of the West, how would you select products to suggest to our customers?
How to Answer
At the heart of the role of a Personal Banker falls your ability to use your sales skills and customer service skills to match products that best suit each individual customer's needs. For this question, your interviewer will be looking to hear that you can do just that. As you answer this question, highlight your ability to learn and know the entire catalog of financial products you would have at your disposal and then switch to your sales skills mode where you talk about tailoring packages to each individual based on their needs. To really sell your interviewer on your ability, try to use a real world example where you used features and benefits to meet someone's needs in a sales related situation.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"To do this effectively, I would rely on my ability to get to know my customers and their needs and I do this through confident and friendly conversation with them. Once I know their needs and goals moving forward, I can then take a wise approach to our product base to get them involved with the products that help them meet their goals. Last year, I did this with a customer that I had over a years worth of history with. Through both email and in-person conversations, I learned that early retirement was definitely a goal of his and I used the benefits of our IRA accounts to help him open one and thrive moving forward."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"If hired for this role at Bank of the West, my first goal would be to learn the entire package of personal accounts, savings, loans and investment products that customers here can take advantage of. Armed with that knowledge, I would then rely on my ability to get to know my customers and what they find important to them to help them grow and thrive into the future. I believe that my background in sales will help me to match the great products here at Bank of the West with each individual's needs because I've done this in both the automotive sales industry and the food industry."
24. At Bank of the West, we value diversity in our customer base and on our team. How do you work effectively with people from different backgrounds ?
How to Answer
In any interview that you experience, a diversity related question is likely to come your way. This is no different at Bank of the West because in the banking industry, customers will come from all walks of life and you will be required to work with them effectively. To give your interviewer the greatest sense in your answer, talk both about how you value diversity in your personal and professional life and give an example of a time you worked with a diverse team of people and thrived. In the end, your interviewer will be looking to hear that you will join the team at Bank of the West with an open mind and open heart.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"I am a firm believer that a diverse team and work environment benefits the greater good of the organization by bringing many different perspectives to decision making processes. My first job out of school was with a company that lacked diversity and it really struggled because of lack of new ideas and a lack of value for others. Since that job, I have worked at companies and on teams that were very diverse and I really enjoyed being able to learn and grow from others from different backgrounds than me."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"In my current position, I work with customers from all different nationalities and walks of life. As a very young adult taking this job from a small, non-diverse town, it was intimidating at first to me. But from day one on that job, I've really grown to appreciate and see that connecting with individuals that are different from me is beneficial to society as a whole. If hired in this role, I understand that I would be working with a very diverse customer base and I'd be able to do so in a very empathetic and understanding manner."
25. What is your experience in managing an overall performance appraisal process for your staff?
How to Answer
While your interviewer can see that you have employee management in your experience from your resume, this question is allowing you to really get into detail about what experiences you have in working through a performance appraisal process with your staff in the past. While being open and honest in your experiences, try to highlight your ability to use fair judgement in writing performance appraisals and highlight any technologies that you've used to help manage the performance of your team. As well, don't hesitate to discuss any of the difficult conversations you've had in the past with your staff as Bank of the West will look to you to be an effective part of this process as their next Branch Manager.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I manage a team of 13 employees and our policy is to conduct appraisals near a staff member's hire anniversary. I'm a firm believer that writing an appraisal takes preparation throughout the year by documenting performance. When it comes time to writing the appraisal, we use an online performance management system that makes organizing details within the appraisal really nice. I always block time on my calendar to take the time needed to focus on putting detail to paper and don't rush through it because feedback is so important to improving the performance of my entire team."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"As you can see from my resume, I have over 10 years of management experience and within that experience, I have a lot of experience in the performance appraisal processes for my staff. I take the approach of using a fact and documented based approach with my staff rather than personal opinion. Being in a very volatile and high turnover industry right now, evaluating my staff on tangible factors is very important. Throughout my career as a manager, I've had to have many difficult conversations with staff that were put on performance improvement plans based on their annual reviews and am comfortable having these conversations in a professional, yet personal manner."
26. Tell me about a time when you showed integrity in your work.
How to Answer
Integrity is best displayed through honesty and consistent moral values. The banking industry relies on employees who are trustworthy and reliable. Give an example that shows how you have demonstrated these qualities in the past.
1st Answer Example
"In my last position, I was responsible for the cash deposit on a daily basis. There was never a discrepancy, in the four years that I worked there. I have proven myself reliable through my consistency, always showing up on time, meeting deadlines, and keeping my word."
2nd Answer Example
"I show integrity in my work in everything that I do. It's important to me that my employer and colleagues see me as trustworthy, with a strong moral compass."
27. Walk me through your thought process when delegating responsibilities to others that you are responsible for. What are the important factors that influence your decisions?
How to Answer
As the potential next Branch Manager at this branch of Bank of the West, your interviewer wants to hear that you have the innate ability to delegate responsibilities among the team that you'll be managing. For this question, they'll be looking to hear that you you can do this effectively by knowing the strengths and weaknesses of your team members and also that you know the responsibilities of each role that you'll be managing. As you talk about your ability to delegate, make sure to talk about the importance of delegating for both your own efficiency in your work and in the work of your team. As well, don't hesitate to talk about your ability to train others when needed to ensure that the necessary work gets completed.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"As a manager, I have a really great history in delegating the right work to the right people in the right amount. Any time that I delegate work, it is important that I put the work in the hands of the right person and I do this by knowing the colleagues that I manager very well. If hired for this role, my immediate goal upon starting would be to get to know my team very well. I would have one-on-one conversations with everyone during my first week and would take the time to read prior performance evaluations. After I have a comfortable handle on my team, my next goal would be to divide up work in the best way possible that gets people working to their strengths."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 9th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"My first step in a decision making process to delegate work is to evaluate the task at hand for consideration. I ask myself if it is a duty that I as a manager should be handling first. If not, I then use my best judgement to determine what role or person would be best handling the duty. I ensure that I consider factors like current workloads, KSA's of my team and impact of the task to be delegated in my thought process."