28 Bank of New Zealand Interview Questions (with Answers)

1.

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 New Zealand.

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

2.

What interests you about this position?

The interviewer at Bank of New Zealand 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.

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

Rachelle's Answer

"It is both the job description and the idea of working for Bank of New Zealand 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."

Anonymous Answer

"I enjoy problem-solving and drawing insights from qualitative and quantitative information. Both the job description and the idea of working for BNZ 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 data management activities, risk management, and reporting. Also, the innovative working environment motivates me to keep updating my skill sets."

Rachelle's Answer

Great job bringing the job description and responsibilities into your answer! This approach will show the interviewer that you have taken the time to research this role before attending your interview.

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3.

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 New Zealand 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.

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

Anonymous Answer

"The greatest challenge I have faced in my career was the culture of nepotism in a state-own company in my home country. It is very challenging to overcome morality based difficulties in the workplace while maintaining a positive attitude and keeping motivated. Although my director nominated me, and my colleagues knew what I contributed a lot to the company, the higher position was given to a new graduate. I overcame these feelings by focusing on upgrading my skill sets and also the consolation from my colleagues."

Rachelle's Answer

Nepotism is a challenge to overcome, indeed. It sounds like you handled the situation with utmost graciousness and professionalism.

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4.

The banking industry can be stressful. Tell me about a time when you worked in a high-pressure situation.

While working at Bank of New Zealand, 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.

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

5.

What do you want to accomplish at Bank of New Zealand?

Set some goals so that you can share how this position at Bank of New Zealand will help you to achieve them and how you will add value to Bank of New Zealand along the way.

Rachelle's Answer

"First and foremost, I want to deliver top quality service to customers of Bank of New Zealand and perform my responsibilities with best in class service. I want to work at Bank of New Zealand 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."

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

6.

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.

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

Anonymous Answer

"As I always do, to keep track of details, while engaging in conversation, I write down a few notes for myself to gather the information. This approach is helpful because when I am asked to do another thing, I don't forget any of the important details. Furthermore, this action allows me to do parallel tasks to work efficiently. So, writing notes to keep track is quite useful for me."

Rachelle's Answer

Writing down important details is a smart way to help you remember the important parts. Good answer!

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7.

Tell me about your experience in the banking industry.

Share details of your banking experience to show Bank of New Zealand you have what it takes to be successful in the field!

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

Rachelle's Answer

"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 New Zealand."

Anonymous Answer

"I have about 1.5 years of experience working in the banking industry as a research analyst. My current responsibility is to analyze overseas loans and monitor their lifecycle. I use my careful attention to detail to manage my daily tasks without error."

Rachelle's Answer

Good answer! It's nice that you added in a bit about your daily responsibilities, giving the interviewer a fuller idea of your current role.

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8.

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 New Zealand 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.

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

Rachelle's Answer

"Being in a leadership role is important to me, so I plan to be working in a management based position at Bank of New Zealand 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."

9.

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.

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

Anonymous Answer

"In all of my roles with NZ and Japan companies, I was responsible for the data analysis daily. There was never a discrepancy in my career. In my most recent individual project, I had my tasks done with high quality overnight, although the client wanted the results before the due date. I have proven myself reliable through my consistency, always showing up on time, meeting deadlines, and keeping my word."

Rachelle's Answer

It's nice that you give a specific example of your reliability while also adding in how you are reliable, overall. I have tweaked your answer a bit to make it more concise.

"In my most recent individual project, my client wanted results before the due date, so I completed my tasks overnight, maintaining high quality. In all of my roles with NZ and Japan companies, I was responsible for the data analysis daily without any discrepancies. I have proven myself reliable through my consistency, always showing up on time, meeting deadlines, and keeping my word."

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10.

Tell me about your favorite manager. What did you enjoy most about working with them?

Bank of New Zealand 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.

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

Anonymous Answer

"My favorite manager was my first manager when I worked in Japan. She was attentive and respected my ideas. I feel that many of my positive work-based skills and qualities are because of how she interacted with and trained me."

Rachelle's Answer

It's nice to hear that you had such a great experience with your first manager. It's great that you added a bit about what you learned from her management style.

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11.

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.

Rachelle's Answer

"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 New Zealand."

Rachelle's Answer

"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.

Describe a difficult problem and how you approached it.

Interviewers at Bank of New Zealand 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.

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

Rachelle's Answer

"While attending university, I was assigned a group project with a group of less than motivated individuals. My grades and performance were critical 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."

13.

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 New Zealand that you are perceptive and sensitive to the needs of others.

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

Anonymous Answer

"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 clear ideas they may bring to the team."

Rachelle's Answer

Finding ways to connect is an excellent approach. Very good response!

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14.

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.

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

Anonymous Answer

"About the accuracy of numerical analyses, I use a different way to double-check and plot figures to have views of data. For text type of work, I read again and ask for help if I am unsure of my accuracy."

Rachelle's Answer

It's nice that you gave a couple of scenarios. This answer is thorough and lets the interviewer understand your process a bit better.

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15.

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.

"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 New Zealand."

Rachelle's Answer

"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 New Zealand."

Rachelle's Answer

"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."

Anonymous Answer

"A stakeholder made a complaint that the data was wrong. 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 stakeholder was very relieved and grateful that I took the time to listen and make sense of the issue. I plan to provide consistent service in the same way when I work for BNZ."

Rachelle's Answer

You responded very well! By listening and taking action, you show the interviewer that you can handle customer issues with excellence.

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16.