27 CIB Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our CIB 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. 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 CIB. 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 CIB.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 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 30th, 2020
2. The banking industry can be stressful. Tell me about a time when you worked in a high-pressure situation.
How to Answer
While working at CIB 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.
1st 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."
2nd 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."
3. Suppose you were on the job here at CIB 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 CIB.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"If in this situation on the job here at CIB, 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 CIB cares about their financial well-being and is willing to help them moving forward."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 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 CIB so I could be resourceful in working with customer complaints."
4. 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 CIB.
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."
5. In working with financial data here at CIB, what are the steps you would take in the data validation process as part of your work?
How to Answer
Your job as a detailed and proficient Data Analyst requires you to take proper steps in the data validation process to ensure that data used is accurate and clean. Bad data in the financial industry can have a costly impact and your job will be to ensure that doesn't happen. For your answer to this question, discuss the importance and your method for both data screening and data verification as part of the validation process. Also, be sure to talk about any programs that you utilize during the validation process.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"With any large analysis project and performing data validation, my first step is to create a detailed plan for the data needed. This plan will define the required data to be validated and set the way for the remaining steps. The next steps are to validate the information in the database and then the formatting of the data. Finally, prior to validating the data, sampling needs to be done to ensure that a small sample meets the requirements of the project. Being very proficient with many validation programs, I consider myself very proficient in both QuerySurge and Datameer but remain open to learning any new programs here at CIB."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"Here at CIB, your Financial Advisors rely on the most accurate and up to date data to present to clients and I would take great pride in my job as a Data Analyst to provide the best data possible. To validate data, the two important steps I would take are data screening and data verification. I am very confident in my ability to work with algorithms that screens large sets of data for their accuracy. On top of that, I have worked with a few of the different data verification programs like Experian and Sage Intacct."
6. 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 30th, 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 30th, 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 CIB, 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."
7. As a Personal Banker at CIB, 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 30th, 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 30th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"If hired for this role at CIB, 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 CIB with each individual's needs because I've done this in both the automotive sales industry and the food industry."
8. What are one or two of the aspects that you think you would love about our Teller job at CIB?
How to Answer
While your interviewer is asking this question to verify that you understand the role and life with CIB, 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 30th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"The biggest thing that I am most excited for in this role at CIB 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 CIB."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 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."
9. What ideas could you bring to CIB to help grow revenue in this branch?
How to Answer
If hired as the next Branch Manager at CIB, 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 30th, 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 CIB, 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 CIB 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 30th, 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. At CIB, 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 CIB 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 CIB with an open mind and open heart.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 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 30th, 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."
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 CIB."
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. What are your thoughts on working in a position here at CIB that had a lot of routine tasks each day?
How to Answer
A position as a Teller with CIB 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 30th, 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 CIB 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 30th, 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 CIB, 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."
13. Why do you want to pursue a career in the banking industry?
How to Answer
Before your interview, take some time to think through your career goals. CIB 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!
1st 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."
2nd 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!"
14. What do you want to accomplish at CIB?
How to Answer
Set some goals so that you can share how this position at CIB will help you to achieve them and how you will add value to CIB along the way.
1st Answer Example
"First and foremost, I want to deliver top quality service to customers of CIB and perform my responsibilities with best in class service. I want to work at CIB 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."
2nd 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. In your mind, why is it important that CIB focuses on customer service?
How to Answer
The customers are the lifeblood of a bank and without them, CIB 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 CIB. 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 30th, 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 CIB, I'd look forward to helping be this differentiating factor for existing and future customers."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 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 CIB 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 CIB."
16. What statistical analysis tools do you have experience working with?
How to Answer
As a successful and resourceful Data Analyst, your interviewer at CIB is expecting you to be knowledgeable and well-versed in the many tools available to you. In your answer, be sure to show diversity within particular programs like SAS and SPSS while also explaining that you are very proficient in Microsoft Excel. On top of the programs, talk about any experience you have with programming and database language like SQL and Python.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, most of my analysis is handled in SAS and I've really grown to appreciate the program's ability to to manage large data sets and create predictive modeling in the financial field. From a past job, I have experience on SPSS and also with the SQL programming language to build robust databases. Of course, I have received expert level training in Microsoft Excel and consider myself a master of the program."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"Having been in the field for over 15 years, looking back at the technological advancements in the tools that we use is very amazing. I consider myself very fluent in both the Sisense and KISSmetrics programs. I also have a good amount of experience in Crystal Reports."
17. If working here at CIB 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 30th, 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 CIB, 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 30th, 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 CIB, I wouldn't hesitate to take this same approach on the job if I found a better way of doing things."
18. How do you stay organized?
How to Answer
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.
1st Answer Example
"I prioritize my workload against deadlines to stay organized, always putting the needs of customers first."
2nd 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."
19. 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 CIB will look to you to be an effective part of this process as their next Branch Manager.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 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 30th, 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."
20. Among the common issues that are faced by Data Analysts in their work, which one or two problems do you feel really challenge analysts in the financial industry?
How to Answer
While the challenges faced by general data analysts makes for a pretty long generalized list, this question is allowing your interviewer the chance to see your critical thinking skills by having you talk about which challenges you feel will be critical in the financial field. While there isn't necessarily a right or wrong answer in this question, make sure that you are able to speak intelligently about your answer and provide ways with how you can meet the challenges in your work with CIB.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"From my two years of experience as a Data Analyst in the financial industry, of course the common issues of overlapping data and duplicate entries did come up. But I've found the biggest issue to be the collection and implementation of real-time data to be the biggest hurdle. With markets continually changing on a daily basis, I've had to be diligent about updating reports for my advisors that I work closely with because what may be valid and real one day may be out of date the next."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"Having some very close contacts that are already working in the financial field in data analysis, I understand that manual data tracking can be a pain point due solely to the time needed to complete. Being highly educated in automated processes and utilizing machine learning in other industries, I think the knowledge I could bring to the team here at CIB would really help advance your data analysis practices within my first six months on the job."
21. What do you know about our services here at CIB 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 CIB 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 30th, 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 CIB, 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 30th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"What I really love about CIB 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 CIB."
22. Describe a difficult problem and how you approached it.
How to Answer
Interviewers at CIB 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."
23. 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. CIB 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."
24. 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. CIB 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 CIB 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."
25. 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 CIB 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 30th, 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 30th, 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 CIB if hired for this role."
26. At CIB, our Personal Bankers work with clients from all different walks of life. How do you handle working with many different personalities throughout the day?
How to Answer
As a Personal Banker with CIB, you will be dealing with a wide variety of clients and your interviewer will be looking to hear that you are able to tailor your approach to working with many different personalities while maintaining a knowledgeable and professional approach with each person. In your answer, be sure to stress that you have the patience to work with all different types of people effectively and the calmness to handle customers that are demanding or full of questions. If you have an example of a role you've held in the past where you've worked with customers, feel free to bring examples of times you had to work with differing personalities first hand.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"In my current role in sales, I work with customers from all different economic and cultural backgrounds. My personality really suits a sales based role well because I have the ability to personally connect with any person that I work closely with and I do this with a very friendly, yet professional approach. I take as much pride in selling a lower end product to a person with lower socioeconomic status as I do in selling a product to the CEO of a large company. I've been in both of those situations and as long as the customer leaves satisfied with a smile on their face, I know it was a job well done."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"I really pride myself on my ability to work effectively with many personality types and people from different backgrounds. In my current role as a Financial Advisor, I work with clients that range from C-Suite Executives all the way down to entry level employees making close to minimum wage. I have the ability to connect with and relate to any individual on a personal level as this is so important in the financial field. If hired here at CIB, this ability would greatly help your customers that are in need of personal banking advising."
27. To get to know what type of leader we'd be hiring at this branch of CIB, how would you describe your management style?
How to Answer
With your interviewer looking to hear your thoughts on what type of leader you will be, make sure not to use generic labels of different leadership styles. Rather, try and remain focused on your ability to build and maintain an effective team based atmosphere as the success of any branch at CIB will rely on the Branch Manager's ability to do so. From there, talk about your specific skills and abilities that will really be able to foster that team atmosphere to promote branch growth and employee satisfaction moving into the future.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"I take a very well rounded approach with my team that is both personable and professional and I've honed this approach through my time and experience as a senior leader. I take the time to get to know my staff and their work preferences so I can effectively delegate work as needed. I know that I am the authority for my team and I always keep an open door policy for them to approach me when needed."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"I consider my management style to be a very adaptive one and I say adaptable in that I am able to cater my approach to each unique team member and each unique situation. I pride myself on promoting a fully functional team environment and I like to allow others to be part of the decision making processes. But when necessary, I can make crucial decisions and communicate those decisions with my team in an educational and firm manner."