27 First National Financial LP Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our First National Financial LP 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. How would you handle communication with a customer that was visibly upset?
How to Answer
In this position with First National Financial LP, you may be faced with a customer that is upset and/or mad at the situation they are in. Because of the shoes you will be filling as a Teller, you will be expected to help deescalate the situation through solid and effective verbal communication with the customer. As you answer this question, talk about your ability to remain calm, cool and collected in any situation and explain how you take an empathetic approach with any person that you will work with in this role. If you have an example of a time that you were faced with this situation, don't hesitate to walk your interviewer through that situation and how you handled it.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"Having worked in customer facing roles for my entire career, I have handled many angry customers and feel I have a great method in the way that I communicate with them. First, I start by hearing them out and letting them vent in any means that they want. From there, I calmly repeat back the key points and then begin brainstorming solutions for them. By maintaining a calm demeanor during these situations, angry customers are often able to calm down rather quickly. After I understand the customer's needs, I take all steps necessary to help solve their problem. If this entails bringing in another colleague, I don't hesitate to do so in a team based approach."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"When this happens in my current role, I make sure that any other duties I am currently working on are put on hold so I can give full attention to that customer. Last week, I was the only person on staff handling a busy lobby when a customer came in very upset with a vehicle that they had just purchased. I immediately put the phones on hold to take the time to listen to their concerns. After hearing the causes of their frustration, I had them wait in our lobby and I went and talked to our Sales Manager. He made time for the customer immediately. In these instances, providing swift action to help alleviate any further issues is the most important thing that can be done."
2. Due to the continued explosion of the digital world, First National Financial LP is becoming more virtual on a day to day basis. What job duties would you see as being fluent in this role as a Teller with us?
How to Answer
As banks have adjusted the way they do business over time to suit the needs of customers that are becoming more automated and mobile, the traditional Teller job description has certainly changed with the advancements in technology. With this question, your interview is simply looking to gauge how flexible you would be if hired for this role because First National Financial LP will be relying on the person hired this role to be highly adaptable in a changing work environment. As you answer, let your interviewer know that you are aware of how rapidly the banking industry is changing and give examples of a time or two you had to be flexible in your own job duties. Then, really put thought into what you feel are ways that the traditional Teller job role has changed and will continue to change over time.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"As my own personal banking has certainly changed to the point where I hardly visit a bank lobby any more and take care of more things online, I would venture to guess that a Teller is face to face a lot less with customers than they used to be and handling more job duties over the phone and online with customers. I would envision that on top of traditional withdrawals and deposits, Tellers at First National Financial LP are also seen as advisors to customers when it comes to different products within the bank. If hired for this role, I would be excited to be flexible and learn new duties to become a more complete member of the team here at First National Financial LP. In my current role as a Customer Service Rep, I've had to be very fluid in my job duties."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"In my current role as a Teller, I've been very adaptable over the last couple of years as my current institution moved a lot of services to a virtual format. I've received extensive training on ATM troubleshooting for customers using the ATM in our parking lot. I've also been trained on our branch kiosks and tablets that customers use for loan applications and other transactions. But because many of our elderly customers still prefer traditional in-person transactions, I've never lost my touch as a traditional Teller. If hired here at First National Financial LP, I'd look forward to being a flexible Teller that is willing to adapt with changes moving forward."
3. What has been the most stressful situation that you faced in the workplace and what did you do to ensure that you navigated that situation successfully?
How to Answer
At times, the work at First National Financial LP can get stressful in a customer facing role and this question is giving your interviewer insight to how you will be able to handle the stress that will potentially come in this role if you are hired. In your answer, speak openly and honestly to your interviewer by explaining the situation that you were in and why it was stressful to you. Then, talk in detail about the things that you did to work through the situation to make sure that there was a positive outcome. While answering, try to give your interviewer the sense that you are not easily stressed out on the job and are able to work through high pressure situations with ease.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"Last year, my staff of nine people was brought down to five people with one termination and three other resignations in a short period of time. Given that recruiting new staff in my current field can be difficult, we worked at almost 50% staffing for two months. To avoid burnout, our manager decided the best route was to only have two of our staff on shift at a time when we would normally have three to four on at a time. This is where work became the most stressful. For me, keeping upbeat, positive and focused on all of my duties was what helped me through each work day. I really appreciated the fact that we didn't need to double our work hours during this time and my remaining team members ended up navigating this period with great success."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"A couple of years ago, my current company purchased my previous employer and there were many unknowns surrounding my job and my job duties moving forward when it was announced that the company was being sold. When I saw a lot of my coworkers in distress, I took the direction of trying to lead by example with a positive attitude. From the start, I began asking a lot of questions to our managers to try and become as educated as possible on the changes that were coming. I also tried to hear the concerns of my colleagues as well and tried to a be a reassuring person for them. In the end, the transition was great for me and I have my positive and inquisitive attitude to thank for that. During the process, one close colleague did leave the company in fear of what would happen and they still regret that decision to this day."
4. If hired for this role here at First National Financial LP, how would you manage your daily tasks on the job to ensure that your work is completed in a timely and efficient manner?
How to Answer
Your interviewer is posing this question to gain insight into how you use resources and technologies to keep you on track in your work and to also get a sense for how you prioritize the small details in the work that you do. As you answer the question, be very specific as you describe your ability to multitask many duties throughout a given work day and talk about the tools that you use to keep yourself on track in your work. As you talk about this process for yourself, don't lose sight of your focus on the small details in your work and discuss why doing things in detail is important in the work that you do. Make sure to talk about real world examples that you've used in the past that you feel would be helpful in this role as a Teller with First National Financial LP.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"I consider myself to be highly organized in my work and I do this by using my calendar
and task functions within Microsoft Outlook. I schedule time each day for my daily tasks and it doesn't take me very long to have a quick understanding for how much time is needed to complete the routine tasks on a daily basis. I always make sure to allow for enough time for each task to be done as thoroughly as possible. Then, for the tasks that pop up from time to time, I always make sure that I add those to my to do list quickly."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"In my current role, I print a daily checklist of my duties and begin working on that list as soon as my day starts. Some of the tasks have a prerequisite task that day, so I have my checklist prioritized by needs from the top. I have found this method to be extremely useful in helping me make sure that my duties are handled each and every day and I wouldn't hesitate to utilize something similar if hired for this role with First National Financial LP"
5. What ideas could you bring to First National Financial LP to help grow revenue in this branch?
How to Answer
If hired as the next Branch Manager at First National Financial LP, 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 First National Financial LP, 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 First National Financial LP 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."
6. At First National Financial LP, 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 First National Financial LP, 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 First National Financial LP, this ability would greatly help your customers that are in need of personal banking advising."
7. What is the highest level of mathematics that you completed during any of your schooling?
How to Answer
Working as a Teller for First National Financial LP will require you to have pretty basic math skills and the ability to count cash in an accurate and efficient manner. For this question, your interview will be looking to hear that you have completed at least some levels of high school math and did so with ease. In your answer, while you discuss what levels of math that you have completed during your education, be sure to explain how your mathematical skills will be able to apply to the job that you are interviewing for. Make sure that your interviewer walks away from your conversation confident in your abilities.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"As you can see from my resume, I have an Associate's Degree in Marketing and during my coursework at XYZ Technical College, I took both college level statistics and financial accounting courses. With both of these classes, I am confident in my ability to handle and count large sums of cash and also operate account software if required for the job here at First National Financial LP."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"During my final year of high school a few years ago, I completed my final semester of Algebra II with an A- grade. Through my years of Algebra I and Algebra II during high school and with my retail experience prior to this interview, I feel comfortable with all of the accounting related duties that I would handle in this role with First National Financial LP."
8. Out of all of our products at First National Financial LP, which one would you be most likely to use? Why?
How to Answer
Learn as much as you can about what makes First National Financial LP 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!
1st Answer Example
"I would be interested in opening a savings account through First National Financial LP. 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!"
2nd Answer Example
"Of all your products, I would be most likely to open a mortgage with First National Financial LP because your rates are incredible and you make the rules surrounding lending easy to understand."
9. Have you ever had to work with a difficult colleague? How did you handle that situation?
How to Answer
A potential job with First National Financial LP will put you in a branch office that has many different people, with many different personalities, working in one place at one time. It is simple human nature for their to be conflict within a workplace like this and your interviewer is looking to hear how you personally manage interpersonal conflicts with your coworkers by asking this question. As you answer, be sure to use a real life situation and talk open and honestly about how you handled the situation. Try to focus on the positive things you did to make things work out and make sure that the situation you describe ends with a positive results. In the end, your interviewer is looking to hear that you can be a true team player no matter who you work with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"In my current job, I am paired in a small office with a colleague that can be rather difficult at times. We handle a lot of work over the phone and he can be very loud and boisterous at times. On top of that, he can tend to get very upset following certain phone calls with clients. When first hired and paired in an office with him, I was taken aback by his behavior and remained quiet. One day, at the advice of our manager, I simply talked to my colleague and told him that I would be very thankful if he could tone his voice down in our office and to try and use more healthy ways of handling anger on the job. In the end, this was an approach I should've used right away as he thanked me for the feedback and told me that his old officemate was the same as him regarding how they handled frustration. With him knowing that I didn't care for that approach, he vowed to be better moving forward and things are great to this day."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"First and foremost, I consider myself a great team player and any of my current or past coworkers would echo that same thought. While I do work great in teams, conflict among people is always inevitable and I feel that I excel in working with difficult teammates. A couple of years ago, I was on a project team with a person that tried to take over meetings with their own thoughts on processes moving forward and wouldn't budge for other people's ideas. After seeing a few of our team members become visibly frustrated during our first gather, I took it upon myself to talk with this person face to face. The person became very confrontational with me and ended up berating the overall knowledge of the members of the team. I decided that I would let that conversation sink in with the individual and see how the next meeting the following week went. When the belittling and combative behavior continued, I approached the project lead the next day to see what could be done. While the difficult decision was made to remove that person from our project team, I have no regrets in the approach I took because it was good for the overall health of the team."
10. 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 First National Financial LP 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."
11. If a customer at First National Financial LP 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 First National Financial LP, 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 30th, 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 30th, 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 First National Financial LP."
12. The clients of a financial firm like First National Financial LP 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 30th, 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 First National Financial LP, 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 30th, 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."
13. Tell me about a time when you demonstrated you were trustworthy.
How to Answer
To show First National Financial LP that you are reliable share an example from your work experience that is relevant to the position.
1st 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."
2nd 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. The banking industry is built on trust and this is no different at First National Financial LP. Do other people you have worked closely with consider you to be trustworthy?
How to Answer
While the easy route for this question would be to simply answer yes and move on, your interviewer will be looking for you to talk about a specific situation or two where you proved your ability to be trusted in the workplace. Take the time to think about a time where trust was instilled in your beyond your normal job duties and explain the situation to your interviewer. Be sure to explain why the situation was important, what you learned from it and how it helps you be seen as a more trustworthy candidate for this role at First National Financial LP. In the end, remember that the ability to be trusted as a Teller with First National Financial LP is one of the premier qualities that your interviewer will be looking for in an ideal candidate for the role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"If you were to ask any former colleague or manager that I have worked with, they would all say that I am worthy of any trust you would instill in me. In my current role, my manager has given me the duty of physically transporting our daily bank deposits and has given me a set of office keys and the code to the security system as a backup to our management staff. In my five years with the organization, I have proved myself to be trusted with these duties through my error free work, great attendance record and honesty."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"I have always put it on myself to try and cross-train and learn as many roles with companies that I have worked with in the past. As well, I've always strived to become an expert on all total process at any given job. Because of this extra effort, my current manager has asked me to be a department representative on a few different committees in my current organization. As well, I've also been asked to lead a few process improvement projects within our department. My manager has directly told me that I was asked to take on these extra responsibilities because of the trust that he has in my work ethic and my overall knowledge of our organization. If lucky enough to come work for First National Financial LP, I would bring this same attitude to the team here."
15. What are your top three strengths? How will you use them to make an impact at First National Financial LP?
How to Answer
Reviewing the job description and the company website will give you some direction on which qualities First National Financial LP values most. Share your most valuable strengths. Think about them within the context of the position. You can refer to the list of responsibilities within the job description as a guide. Explain how your strengths will help you to accomplish these tasks; and better yet, help you to exceed expectations.
1st Answer Example
"I have exceptional attention to detail and great communication skills. I am also quick to solve problems, which helps me handle customer issues with ease. These strengths will help me to build relationships and maintain customer satisfaction."
2nd Answer Example
"I plan to make an impact at First National Financial LP through my strong customer service skills, my excellent negotiation skills, and my ability to call on referrals for new business."
16. Give me an example of how you keep track of details while engaging in conversation.
How to Answer
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.
1st 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."
2nd 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."
17. If you were having an interaction with a client here at First National Financial LP and you weren't able to answer their question or solve their problem on your own, how would you handle that situation?
How to Answer
As the forward facing client services representative with First National Financial LP, you may be asked serious financial or market related questions that either don't know or aren't qualified to answer. In those situations, you will be expected to explain to the customer how that question will be answered and then deliver a timeline on when it can be answered. In the end, the customer wants to know the clear path to ease their mind and it will be your job to do just that.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"In my current role in Customer Service with Metropolis' largest automotive dealership, I frequently get asked questions that our sales, finance and service staff have to give the final stamp of approval on in answering customers questions. In these situations, I have a great amount of knowledge where I can prepare the customer for speaking with the right person while also ensuring them that the sales, finance or service staff will provide the final answer. Then, I work quickly to get them to the right person."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"In a situation where I didn't know an answer, I would ensure the client that we have the right staff in place that would be able to help them quickly and efficiently. I would communicate to the customer what the next step would be and if that would be me putting them directly in contact with someone or me taking their contact information and having someone get back to them. In the end, setting the right course and timeline would be important for every customer when I faced this situation."
18. Customer service is the name of our game at First National Financial LP. 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 First National Financial LP 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 30th, 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 30th, 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."
19. Talk about your experience in mortgage loan closing. How would this experience be beneficial to our team here at First National Financial LP?
How to Answer
As a Loan Consultant with First National Financial LP, you will be tasked with guiding clients through the complete mortgage process. This will include seeking the best funds available, completing paperwork and seeing the loan through to closing for them. For this question, your interviewer can a good sense of your experience by taking a look at your resume, but they're looking to get more details on your mortgage closing experience by having you talk in detail. Be sure to discuss your specific experience and tie what you can to this specific role with First National Financial LP.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"As you can see from my resume, my current role involves a lot of detail in the loan closing process for the customers that I work with. I assemble and prepare closing documents and coordinate the details of the closing process when all terms of the sale are met. In this role with First National Financial LP, I think that my hands on approach that I currently take with my customers would suit your clients well because I take the time to work with them one-on-one and never hesitate to provide top notch customer service to any person that I'm working with."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"Having been in the mortgage business for over ten years, I have a vast amount of experience in seeking personalized mortgage options for clients and walking them through the entire loan process. I am familiar with the processing of necessary loan closing documents in several state and know all of the fine details that are required to ensure that there are no hiccups in the process for clients. This experience would allow me to hit the ground running in this role here at First National Financial LP."
20. Tell me about your experience in the banking industry.
How to Answer
Share details of your banking experience to show First National Financial LP you have what it takes to be successful in the field!
1st 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."
2nd 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 First National Financial LP."
21. 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 First National Financial LP, 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 30th, 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 30th, 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."
22. What experience do you have in multitasking different duties in any of your prior work experiences?
How to Answer
As a Teller with First National Financial LP, you will be relied upon to have excellent organizational skills when handling multiple tasks throughout each workday. Oftentimes, customers can have multiple transactions that must be process and your job will be to ensure that the needs of the customer are handled accurately and efficiently. To gauge your ability to handle this, your interviewer is looking for you to describe a time that you had to be a great multitasker on the job. As you answer this question, be sure to point out the organizational skills that you used to ensure that all of your duties were handled with ease. If you are a new graduate, it is okay to talk about multitasking in your school or personal life as long as you see it is relevant to proving how you can utilize those same skills in this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"In my current role as an Administrative Assistant, I often am juggling multiple tasks at one time. While handling schedule coordination for five different managers at my company, I'm also working on setting up many different organization wide meetings where I'm required to send multiple communications out at the same time. To keep myself organized when handling many things at once, I utilize both my Outlook calendar and a written checklist to ensure that all tasks are getting done in a timely manner."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"During my years working in the restaurant industry, I became an expert on handling many tables of customers at once. While juggling the order of all of these customers, I also had the responsibilities of manning the cash register at times. This experience really helped me with accurately recording customer orders on my order pad. I also developed what I would call a multitasking mind by training my brain to keep all of my customers orders at the top of my mind. I think my years in that industry will translate well to the Teller role here at First National Financial LP"
23. In your opinion, what are the benefits of banking with First National Financial LP?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to be assured that you have done your research on First National Financial LP. Review their website to find out more about their products and services.
1st Answer Example
"I always have a great experience whenever I visit one of your branches. As a customer of First National Financial LP 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 First National Financial LP values is evident."
2nd Answer Example
"After researching First National Financial LP products, and what your customers are saying, I believe that the benefits of banking with First National Financial LP include low fees, no fuss banking, and no sales pitches. Your organization is genuine and has an interest far beyond the bottom line."
24. If hired for this role with First National Financial LP, 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 First National Financial LP.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 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 30th, 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 First National Financial LP, 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."
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25. What customer service experience do you have that would greatly benefit the customers at First National Financial LP?
How to Answer
As the face of the organization for a lot of customers that will come through the lobby and drive-through of First National Financial LP, your interviewer expects that you'll be able to bring your A game to the job every day when it comes to customer service. To get an idea of your customer service experience, your interviewer is asking this question. As you prepare for your interviewer, try to think of customer service experience you have that would most apply to being a successful Teller. Talk about your duties when it came to serving customers and putting a smile on their face with each interaction that you had. Don't hesitate to use a real world example of a time you went the extra mile to provide the best service possible.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"Being a people person by nature, I've always thrived in roles that put me face to face with customers at any place of employment. During my high school years, I was a waitress at a local restaurant on the weekends. During these busy times, I quickly learned how the little things can go a long way with customers that I would see on a regular basis. Knowing their usual drink orders and little things about them helped spark great conversations with them and, ultimately, their overall satisfaction with their dining experience. If hired here with First National Financial LP, I'd look to bring that same customer service attitude to your team."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"My current role in a large call center places me on the phone with consumers that are usually having either technical issues with our products or just overall unsatisfied with our products. Over the past two years in this role, I've learned how reflectively listen to customers that had a negative experience and how to quickly troubleshoot their problems with ease. As well, I've grown a very thick skin to not take things personally when consumers are downright mean about their products. I can imagine that in a bank setting, upset customers can be at their worst because finances are one of the most stressful things for people and I would be very confident in my ability to work with those customers."
26. In the banking industry, customer service is essential. Give me an example of a time when you provided excellent customer service.
How to Answer
Think about what customer service means to you. Making the customer happy and receiving positive feedback are great examples! First National Financial LP wants to hear that you treat customers with respect and are careful to resolve issues. Explain some of the elements of customer service that you possess, like empathy and patience.
1st Answer Example
"I was working as a bank teller when a woman came in, upset about her account. I could tell she needed to vent and I wasn't quite sure what the actual problem was, so I listened first. Then I asked questions to figure out what was going on. She was so appreciative of me because I was able to think on my feet and troubleshoot to solve the problem quickly. She even apologized for raising her voice and thanked me for my patience."
2nd Answer Example
"In my current position as a bank teller, customers are encouraged to provide feedback via a survey app, after each in-branch visit. For the past three months, I have received the highest ranking for overall customer satisfaction. Delivering excellent customer service is a must for me, and I look forward to bringing this level of service to the customers at First National Financial LP."
27. How would you rate your ability to learn new software programs on a scale of 1 to 10?
How to Answer
In today's digital age, a majority of bank transactions are handled through digital software and for you to be successful in this role, your interviewer will expect you to be a very fast learner of any new programs that you would be required to work with at First National Financial LP. To give your interviewer a sense of how well you would be able to do this, talk about times where you've had to learn new software programs on the job in the past and talk about your best methods for learning on the job. As well, you can openly talk about the programs that you currently feel that you are proficient at as well to give them an idea of what type of training you would need if hired.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
1st Answer Example
"I would say that my ability to learn new software programs is easily ranked as an 8. I am very proficient at word processing programs and the entire Microsoft Suite of products. I'm also very proficient at the cloud based point of sale program that I use in my current role. When hired at my current job, I need about a day of side by side training with my mentor and I was up and running with no problems. I rated myself an 8 simply because I have room to grow in learning software in the banking industry but feel very comfortable in my ability to learn quickly if hired at First National Financial LP."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 30th, 2020
2nd Answer Example
"I would honestly rate myself a 9 for this question solely based on my prior history of mastering programs with my current banking institution. During my five years in my current role, I began by training on SAP programs and was able to pick up and run in my role as a Teller very quickly. Recently, we made an institution wide switch to the Oracle suite and my transition there was very smooth!"