Bank of America Interview
Questions

6. Tell us how you keep your knowledge current with ongoing changes in the banking industry. Due to the competition within the banking industry, Bank of America strives to stay relevant by adapting their products and services to meet customer needs. Consider reading some news articles, press releases, or blogs, to learn more about the industry. Here is an answer example: "I am interested in learning about helping my customers with their investments. I like to read financial blogs to stay on the cutting edge of latest trends. I also enjoy reading the latest books with a financial scope and listening to financial advice. I also follow Bank of America on Twitter and keep abreast of relative headlines." Here is an answer example: "I am an avid reader, and my top go-to books for banking related knowledge are A, B, and C. I also listen to a few investment-related podcasts on a weekly basis. I understand the importance of staying on top of the latest trends and news in the banking industry."7. In your opinion, what are the benefits of banking with Bank of America? The interviewer wants to be assured that you have done your research on Bank of America. Review their website to find out more about their products and services. Here is an answer example: "I always have a great experience whenever I visit one of your branches. As a customer of Bank of America I am impressed by the consistency and care of the bank tellers. I also love how easy it is to access my account online and make updates to my credit card whenever I travel. The level of service that is demonstrated in Bank of America values is evident." Here is an answer example: "After researching Bank of America products, and what your customers are saying, I believe that the benefits of banking with Bank of America include low fees, no fuss banking, and no sales pitches. Your organization is genuine and has an interest far beyond the bottom line."8. Tell me about a goal you achieved. What steps did you take to get there? The banking industry offers a variety of opportunities to those who are motivated. Bank of America is seeking individuals who think about the future and aspire to be successful in everything they do. Think about something you accomplished through hard work and dedication. Here is an answer example: "Early in my career, I strived to get to know the banking and thrifts systems from a 360-degree view. I worked hard to partner with my peers in learning how their roles contributed to the whole organizational flow. I set a goal to become head teller within the first five years of working in this industry. I hope to continue that career path with Bank of America and am excited for the opportunity to do so." Here is an answer example: "A few years ago I set the goal to complete my Bachelor's in Finance while working full time. I achieved this in just four years, through spending a lot of time in online studies, between working as a bank teller. I am very proud of the discipline and dedication I was able to put towards this goal."9. Out of all of our products at Bank of America, which one would you be most likely to use? Why? Learn as much as you can about what makes Bank of America stand out above other financial institutions. Their reputation is their customer service. They offer a comprehensive spectrum of financial products, so if you are interested in investments, find out more about what they offer. Knowledge is power! It will impress your interviewer and give you an advantage in the interview process! Here is an answer example: "I would be interested in opening a savings account through Bank of America. I want to buy a house in the next two years, and I would greatly benefit from talking to one of your financial advisors about it. It's nice to know that I can do my banking, investing, and get a loan in the same place that offers the support I will need to make those big decisions!" Here is an answer example: "Of all your products, I would be most likely to open a mortgage with Bank of America because your rates are incredible and you make the rules surrounding lending easy to understand."10. Tell me about your cash handling experience. Share some of the details of your experience in cash handling, which are relevant to the position. Here is an answer example: "As a bank teller, I have handled cash as a part of customer transactions for the past two years. I am experienced with deposits, savings withdrawals, cashing checks and issuing traveler's checks. I am excited to learn more about Bank of America cash handling procedures." Here is an answer example: "The majority of my cash handling experience includes my time in retail. I was a cashier at Store ABC for three years. As far as the banking industry goes, I have some experience in handling cash from my three months with Bank XYZ."11. Give me an example of how you keep track of details while engaging in conversation. Multi-tasking is a great skill to have within the banking industry. Share a situation that demonstrates your ability to handle the daily tasks of a busy banking environment. Here is an answer example: "A customer came into the branch with multiple requests. To ensure that I addressed each of their needs, I wrote down a few notes for myself to gather the information. This was also helpful because when I needed to answer the phone in the middle of the transaction, I didn't forget any of the important details and I was able to resolve both requests promptly. All the while, I kept the customer engaged and made sure their banking experience was enjoyable." Here is an answer example: "To keep track of transaction details, while engaging in conversation, I will ask the customer questions or repeat what they are saying to me. This helps me to commit their needs to memory while still appearing engaged, and in the moment."12. How do you stay organized? Staying organized is essential to make sure that you are thorough and pay attention to details, to keep customers happy. It is also necessary for accomplishing your daily tasks behind the scenes. Share a few tools that have helped you stay on-task and on-time. Here is an answer example: "I prioritize my workload against deadlines to stay organized, always putting the needs of customers first." Here is an answer example: "I work closely with my peers to share responsibilities and ensure key tasks are delegated out, should there be an important deadline to consider."13. Tell me about a time when you demonstrated you were trustworthy. To show Bank of America that you are reliable share an example from your work experience that is relevant to the position. Here is an answer example: "In my last role, I was responsible for reconciling the banking at the end of the day. Last month, there was an overage, and I demonstrated my true character by reporting this to the management. Together, we partnered to research where this happened and collaborated to coach the team member who caused the error. We adjusted the accounts accordingly." Here is an answer example: "Every successful day in the banking industry is an opportunity to show that I am trustworthy. In my five years within banking, I have never been involved in a discrepancy."14. What do you want to accomplish at Bank of America? Set some goals so that you can share how this position at Bank of America will help you to achieve them and how you will add value to Bank of America along the way. Here is an answer example: "First and foremost, I want to deliver top quality service to customers of Bank of America and perform my responsibilities with best in class service. I want to work at Bank of America because I want to become a financial advisor. Starting out as a professional banker will give me valuable experience resolving client account issues and providing financial assistance, from investments to savings and travel advice." Here is an answer example: "My primary goal is to achieve a leadership position within the banking industry. To do this, I will continue my related education and take any training opportunities that come my way."15. Tell me about your experience in the banking industry. Share details of your banking experience to show Bank of America you have what it takes to be successful in the field! Here is an answer example: "When I worked as a bank teller, I learned how to deal with difficult customers and handle a variety of transactions, from ordering foreign money for travel to removing overdraft fees and educating customers on our products. I used my careful attention to detail to keep my drawer balanced and manage my daily tasks without error." Here is an answer example: "I have 12 years of experience in the banking industry, first as an administrative assistant, then a bank teller, and now; a financial advisor. I have learned a great deal along the way and look forward to putting my experience to work for Bank of America."16. Why do you want to pursue a career in the banking industry? Before your interview, take some time to think through your career goals. Bank of America is looking for motivated individuals who want to grow within the company. Share your career plans. Talk about how this position will help you achieve your goals! Here is an answer example: "I am passionate about the field of finance and accounting, mixed with an unwavering passion for quality customer service. The banking industry allows me to tap into both areas and have a lot of fun making positive customer experiences along the way." Here is an answer example: "Careers in banking run in my family! My mother was a banker and my father, a financial advisor when I was growing up. It always fascinated me how smart they both were. It's in my blood!"17. How would you respond to a customer complaint? The interviewer would like to be assured that you can professionally handle customer complaints. Give an example of a time you helped resolve a customer's issue. Here is an answer example: "A customer called me very frustrated about an issue with their bank account. I listened and told them I would be happy to help. I asked more questions to understand the problem and then suggested once I had a better idea of what might solve it. The customer was very relieved and grateful that I took the time to listen and make sense of the issue. I plan to provide consistent customer service in the same way when I work for Bank of America." Here is an answer example: "Each customer complaint is unique; however, I have been trained to handle them all with the same method. Listen, be empathetic, and use phrases such as 'If I understand your concern...' and repeat their words back to them. This method has always worked for me."18. The banking industry can be stressful. Tell me about a time when you worked in a high-pressure situation. While working at Bank of America you might find yourself stressed by customers or the fast pace of the work environment. Think of a time where you produced your best work under pressure to showcase how you shine under high-pressure situations. Here is an answer example: "When I was working as an administrator at a financial firm, I worked in a very high-pressure environment. There was one case that was highly sensitive and required me to pay extra attention to detail. I had limited time to prepare the paperwork, but I was still able to support the lawyer and the client, by staying calm and carefully providing everything they needed. I asked questions to clarify the deadlines that needed to be met and set daily goals to meet them." Here is an answer example: "Almost every day in my banking career has been filled with high-pressure situations. When I am faced with a stressful situation, I remind myself to slow down, breathe, and assess the situation before jumping in with both feet. Customers seem always to appreciate my calm and methodical approach."19. How do you check your work for accuracy? The interviewer wants to hear that you are detail oriented when it comes to checking your work. Explain the steps you take to eliminate minor mistakes and ensure your customer transactions and paperwork are accurate. Here is an answer example: "I take pride in any work with my name attached to it and therefore, always review my work before I submit it. Whether I am typing an email or handling cash, I always check my work twice and sometimes even ask a co-worker to review it first. Being detail oriented and thorough are two of my greatest skill sets." Here is an answer example: "I proof my work before sending it out, and I double check everything. I'll use a calculator when necessary, and ask for help if I am unsure of my own accuracy."20. What is the greatest challenge you have faced in your career so far? How did you overcome it? Consider sharing a professional challenge or a situation you overcame in school. Bank of America 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. Here is an 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." Here is an 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."21. How do you work in environments with people who are different from you? The banking industry thrives on team players with communication and listening skills who can help build internal and customer relations with individuals of diverse backgrounds. Give an example of how you led a team, or collaborated with a group for a school project, to show Bank of America that you are perceptive and sensitive to the needs of others. Here is an answer example: "I have worked with people from all backgrounds and personalities. Whenever I join a new team, I make a point to get to know each person and find ways we can connect. I'm outgoing and friendly with everyone I meet while respecting their different styles and any open ideas they may bring to the team." Here is an answer example: "Diversity is all around us, whether it be at work or home. I treat everyone equally and give everyone the respect and positive attitude that I would expect to receive from them."22. Describe a difficult problem and how you approached it. Interviewers at Bank of America 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. Here is an 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." Here is an 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."23. What interests you about this position? The interviewer at Bank of America wants to learn more about how your educational or professional background led you to apply for this position. Share what you are most looking forward to about the role and how it relates to your previous experience or future goals. Here is an answer example: "I enjoy problem-solving and helping people. I worked as a customer service representative in a call center for Wells Fargo when I was in college, and the experience motivated me to learn more about how to help my clients by understanding more about investing, saving, and using banking services to meet their needs. I think working as a personal banker will give me a great foundation to start my career within the banking industry." Here is an answer example: "It is both the job description and the idea of working for Bank of America that has piqued my interest. This role offers the growth and advancement that I have desired for some time now. I especially like that in this position, I would be responsible for A, B, and C. I am ready for those responsibilities in my next position."24. How do you respond to problems that require a quick solution? 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. Here is an 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 America." Here is an 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."25. Tell me about your favorite manager. What did you enjoy most about working with them? Bank of America 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. Here is an 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." Here is an 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."26. How do you define success? 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 America. Here is an 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." Here is an 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."27. Tell me about a time when you showed integrity in your work. 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. Here is an 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." Here is an 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."28. Where do you see yourself in five years? 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 America 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. Here is an 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." Here is an 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 America 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."