30 SECU Credit Union Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our SECU Credit Union 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 do you believe we can improve on, at SECU Credit Union?
How to Answer
The interviewer is not asking for you to give a whole list of what you think they do poorly. This question offers an opportunity for you to point out a single aspect that you could improve on, should you be hired. The point is to show the interviewer that there may be a gap in their offering that you can help fill. Remain positive and upbeat when you give your answer.
1st Answer Example
"I believe that SECU Credit Union could serve its customers even better by having a stronger online and social media presence for each community that you serve. I happen to be very passionate about marketing, and quite knowledgable so I am happy to help!"
2nd Answer Example
"Although your community involvement is strong, there are opportunities for involvement that would branch out past seasonal volunteer work. I would love to see SECU Credit Union host more community efforts rather than primarily sponsoring the efforts of others. I have an extensive background in volunteering as a volunteer coordinator and could help SECU Credit Union craft a great strategy for this particular community."
2. Credit Unions rank higher in customer service than traditional banks. Why do you think this is?
How to Answer
Your opinion matters! When you are working for a credit union vs. a traditional bank, it's essential that you can wholly appreciate the difference between the two offerings.
Discuss why you believe credit unions rank higher in customer service over traditional banks. Be sure to compliment SECU Credit Union if you have had an excellent customer service experience with them.
1st Answer Example
"Large banks are for-profit, making them more sales driven. This approach can often mean a lower focus on customer service and impersonal service. When it comes to credit unions, we often have higher community involvement, which translates to better customer service at the same time. Credit unions often have better employee training, which also can mean more personalized service for members."
2nd Answer Example
"Credit unions are non-profits, and member-owned, which means they will almost always be more customer-centric. Credit unions are often involved in community groups and take more care than large, and traditional banks can. Also, if we consider geographical location; most credit unions are in smaller, rural communities where service and connection is everything."
3. In your opinion, what is the best service or product offered at SECU Credit Union?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see that you have put time into researching and getting to know the offering at SECU Credit Union. As a well-established credit union, SECU Credit Union offers an excellent range of banking products for their loyal members. Choose which service or product you think stands out from the rest, and why.
1st Answer Example
"I appreciate the terms surrounding your Traditional Individual Retirement Arrangement (IRA). When used properly, this tax-deferred retirement plan can significantly benefit your members. Could you share with me what percentage of your members take advantage of this offering?"
2nd Answer Example
"The home equity loans offered by SECU Credit Union sound wonderful! Your fixed-rate equity loan offers stability for the members who take advantage. This product is a great option for your members who need money for a one-time or unexpected expense. Set monthly payments mean there are no surprises for your members."
4. Are you a SECU Credit Union member?
How to Answer
The answer to this question will be straightforward; yes, or no. Depending on your status, you may not be eligible for member approval at SECU Credit Union. If you are not a member, or not eligible to be a member, talk about the fact that you would be a member if possible. If you are a member, be ready to talk about what you enjoy most about banking with SECU Credit Union.
1st Answer Example
"I have been a member at SECU Credit Union since moving to this town in 2011. I have been thrilled with the personalized customer service, your competitive fees, and reasonable interest rates on unsecured loans. Just last year, I received my first mortgage through SECU Credit Union and was so happy with how smooth the entire process was."
2nd Answer Example
"At this point, I do not meet the requirements to become a member at SECU Credit Union. I would love to be a member one day when I am eligible. I hear many excellent factors associated with membership at your credit union. The online reviews are excellent, and I look forward to further serving your hard-working, well-deserving members."
5. You will handle member transactions in this role. Talk to me about your mathematical skills.
How to Answer
Expectations are that you handle every member transaction with the utmost care and attention. In addition to this keen sense of detail; strong math skills are also a necessity when it comes to working in a banking environment. Discuss your math skills, showing confidence in your abilities related to cash-handling, counting, and making smooth member transactions.
1st Answer Example
"I did very well in any math-related courses while obtaining my business degree. My math skills are strong, and I very rarely have a discrepancy in the workplace. I will meet the expectations of accuracy for SECU Credit Union and your members."
2nd Answer Example
"Math has always been a strong suit for me. I did very well in high school math and was even a tutor for struggling students. I am comfortable with the math skills required when it comes to accepting cash, giving exact cash amounts, keying in transactions, balancing cash floats, and performing other banking-related tasks."
6. Walk me through your customer service training.
How to Answer
A significant part of success in the banking industry comes down to exceptional customer service delivery. This statement is especially true with credit unions who are primarily known for delivering personalized customer service.
Walk the interviewer through any formal training you have received in the area of customer service. Your education could include on-the-job training, online courses, or even books that you have read in your spare time. Show the interviewer that you have an interest in bettering your customer service delivery. This question is a great time to ask the interviewer about their company-specific customer service training and manuals.
1st Answer Example
"I would love to know more about the customer service training that you offer here at SECU Credit Union. I have a great instinct when it comes to delivering the needs of my customers. Being in the banking industry for the last five years, I have absorbed many materials related to customer service. My strengths are in building rapport with clients, remembering their names and interests, and making them feel welcome every time they visit."
2nd Answer Example
"Being a recent graduate and new to my career, I cannot say that I have received any customer service-specific training. With that said, I believe my service instinct is strong, and I know what type of service I like to receive from my bank. I would be happy to take any training that you recommend and would love to hear more about your specific training program here at SECU Credit Union."
7. How do you protect the privacy of every customer you assist?
How to Answer
Credit Unions have many systems in place to protect the privacy of their members. These efforts include technology and monitoring techniques, privacy policies, and renowned training for employees. Discuss the ways you will ensure that you respect the steps SECU Credit Union takes to protect their members.
1st Answer Example
"I protect the privacy of every customer I assist by speaking in a respectful volume, protecting passwords, and advising banking customers on how to keep their information safe. These safety efforts include banking in person, at ATM's, and during online banking. Education and knowledge are critical keys to protecting one's privacy."
2nd Answer Example
"I will protect the privacy of every customer I assist by being aware of my surroundings, keeping a strong password and protecting it, and will never share confidential information. I understand that I will be privy to sensitive and confidential information while working at SECU Credit Union and I'll do everything I can to ensure a members' information is never compromised."
8. Do you have any sales experience? Would you be comfortable upselling a SECU Credit Union banking product?
How to Answer
In the banking industry, customer service can also mean cross-selling or upselling services that you know will benefit the SECU Credit Union member based on their banking habits.
Show the hiring authority that you would be comfortable turning an everyday bank visit into a sales opportunity. If you have a specific example of a time when you made this happen, be sure to share your story. You can also talk about any sales training you have received.
1st Answer Example
"Every customer service interaction should be considered an opportunity to upsell when the product or service will be of value to the customer. When I believe in the product or service, and it's going to benefit the customer, I am happy to upsell. I currently do so in my job, and consistently surpass the upselling, and cross-selling targets given to me."
2nd Answer Example
"I have not received any formal sales training, but with a little bit of help, I believe that I would enjoy a sales component to my job. I am great at building customer relationships, and seeing a customers' need is part of delivering great service."
9. Are you aware that this job has goals and targets? When have you worked in a similar environment?
How to Answer
Depending on your role with SECU Credit Union you may have business targets such as opening 25 new savings accounts every month or cross-selling a newly rolled out product.
Employees of SECU Credit Union must be willing to let customers know about the products available to them, including loans and special offers. Show your awareness of these requirements, and that you have performed tasks like this in the past.
1st Answer Example
"Meeting important targets and goals is a large part of my current role. If a customer is missing an important product such as checking, savings, or a credit account, I will let them know about the product and how it benefits their financial goals. I am more than comfortable performing job functions that include targets and goals."
2nd Answer Example
"I am somewhat competitive, from my time spent in team sports, so the idea of having goals and targets to meet is very enticing to me. I know that the right banking product can make all the difference to a member, so I am happy to make recommendations based on my observations."
10. How do our fees at SECU Credit Union stack up against traditional banks?
How to Answer
Credit unions are non-profit where banks are for profit. For this reason, the fees at SECU Credit Union will be lower and more reasonable than the large banks where people typically do business. With that said, credit unions sometimes have higher interest rates than traditional banks.
The interviewer would like to know that you have done some research on SECU Credit Union and understand how their offering stacks up against traditional banks.
1st Answer Example
"Because SECU Credit Union is member-owned, I see that you have the upper hand when it comes to CD rates, loans, and mortgages, credit unions often have the upper hand with lower fees. Right now, the advantage appears to be around .05% on many SECU Credit Union products."
2nd Answer Example
"I understand that credit unions like SECU Credit Union tend to have lower fees due to your non-profit and member-owned status. Credit unions do not have as many investors to please, which allows places like SECU Credit Union to often offer lower fees on mortgages and loans."
11. In this role, you will handle thousands of dollars of cash, payments, deposits, and funds transfers. This responsibility requires you to be detail-oriented, accurate, and honest. Does this describe you?
How to Answer
The best way to answer this question is to refer to your past performance. You might want to bring in a written performance review where your current boss mentions how reliable you are. You can offer up your references, or talk about a time your supervisor or co-workers complimented you on your work ethic.
1st Answer Example
"I have worked in the banking industry for twelve years without a discrepancy in my work. I believe this good work is due to my keen attention to detail, and the fact that I am honest enough to own up to an error I make in the workplace. When you call my references, they will attest to the fact that I am reliable and honest."
2nd Answer Example
"When you call my references, they will most certainly tell you that I am honest and accurate in my work. In the banking industry, it's imperative that I am detail-oriented. I have not experienced an issue or discrepancy thus far, and I will continue to be careful and attentive in my work here at SECU Credit Union."
12. Do you have any formal education that will help you succeed in this role?
How to Answer
Your formal education might be on your resume, but it's time to dig a bit deeper than merely stating your degree. The interviewer wants you to take the time to walk them through which aspects of your education will be most helpful in this role with SECU Credit Union. Think about any transferable skills you gained or any related subjects where you excelled.
If you do not have formal post-secondary education, you could refer to your high school education (only if you are a recent HS graduate). Otherwise, think of some online learning you have recently completed.
1st Answer Example
"I have a Bank Teller Certificate of Completion. My coursework included general banking classes, fraud prevention training, and exercises in daily transaction balancing. This coursework is valuable and helped me to gain a great start in my banking career."
2nd Answer Example
"I am a recent high-school graduate and feel that, as a top student, I bring a few valuable transferable skills. These include etiquette, good written and oral communication skills, great memorization abilities, and a keen willingness to learn. I look forward to the formal training from SECU Credit Union."
13. Customers can become upset with SECU Credit Union policy at times. How would you handle a customer who is angry because they do not agree with a policy?
How to Answer
Part of working in a highly customer-service driven environment is also serving members when they are not happy. The most common complaints in the banking industry surround speed, policy, or unwanted fees. Talk to the interviewer about your approach when it comes to an unhappy customer.
Some critical steps to customer dispute resolution include:
- Remaining kind, polite, and pleasant
- Actively listen to their grievances
- Apologizing for the situation
- Maintaining a neutral tone of voice
- Not taking anything they say, personally
1st Answer Example
"I have a lot of customer dispute training which has given me some thick skin when it comes to challenging situations. I know that bank policy can seem convoluted at times, difficult to understand, or even frustrating, so I do have empathy for customers who are upset over policy. I take the time to review policy in easy-to-understand language. It's also important that I unpack what their needs are and what is truly concerning the customer. Usually, I can find a solution or at least a work-around that satisfies the customer."
2nd Answer Example
"If I cannot seem to calm a customer down, due to a policy, I will straight out ask them what I can do, aside from change policy, to make them happy. Often it isn't the policy itself but that the customer feels stuck in some way. When the customer is aware that I am willing to rectify the situation, they are much more likely to level with me."
14. Have you been trained in the proper techniques for detecting counterfeit cash and fraudulent checks?
How to Answer
Detecting counterfeit cash or fraudulent checks is an important skill to possess when working in the banking industry. Approximately $150 million worth of counterfeit money is currently circulating in the US. For this reason, it's crucial that banking professionals possess the knowledge necessary to detect fake bills.
It can be simple to detect counterfeit cash, especially with the technology and systems that banks have in place; however, checks can be a bit trickier. Talk about any training you have received. If you are self-taught or new to the industry, that's okay too! Assure the interviewer that you will be careful and detailed with each member transaction.
1st Answer Example
"I have received formal training in my current role and am very confident in my ability to detect counterfeit cash and fraudulent checks. There are many steps to take with cash, including looking forraised printing, blurry borders, lack of red and blue threads, watermark authenticity, and more. Checks can be a bit trickier, so I first look for a perforated edge, the check number, and the logo of the bank from where the check originated. Rest assured that I am meticulous and keen on detail."
2nd Answer Example
"Fraudulent checks can be a challenge to detect. I know that one of the most important factors to look at is the MICR line, which is at the bottom of every authentic check. When running my finger over the ink on the MICR line, it should feel smooth. On many fake checks, this line will feel bumpy and raised. When it comes to counterfeit cash, I look at the quality of the paper, how the watermark reacts to the light, and its corresponding numbers. I have strong attention to detail and will be very careful with every transaction I complete at SECU Credit Union."
15. SECU Credit Union puts our members first. How will you always put our members' needs first?
How to Answer
Credit union and banking environments are competitive, and one of the factors they compete over is who offers the best customer service! People want to bank where they feel comfortable and welcome. Discuss with the interviewer how you ensure that their members will receive the best service from you, should you be the successful candidate.
1st Answer Example
"My professional approach is always to treat the members of SECU Credit Union how I expect to be treated when I go to my bank. Sometimes, I go to my bank to make a quick deposit and other times; it's to apply for a loan or ask for financial advice. Those visits can feel vulnerable, so it's important that a member feels welcome and comfortable no matter the nature of their visit. I will put your members' needs first by always smiling, being willing to help, and maintaining my knowledge on SECU Credit Union products."
2nd Answer Example
"I appreciate everything that SECU Credit Union does to put members first. I will put SECU Credit Union members first by maintaining knowledge of your products and services. I will actively listen to each member I serve, and ask them discovery questions, to help me best uncover their needs."
16. Tell me about one career achievement you have set for yourself this year.
How to Answer
SECU Credit Union wants to know that you have ambitions related to growing your career in the banking industry. When you have goals on the horizon, you show the interviewer that you have an interest in advancing your career and staying in your industry for a long time to come.
When you do not have goals set, the interviewer can interpret this as you being unmotivated and disengaged. Your goals can be as simple as finishing an online course, learning a new skill, or reaching a sales target.
1st Answer Example
"One achievement I would like to see this year is to make the top 3 for cross-selling at my current bank. My targets and goals are simple, but I like to exceed them, no matter what they are. The more successful my bank is, the better we can serve our customers."
2nd Answer Example
"Next month, I am graduating with my business administration degree. My goal is to land an exceptional internship, like this one at SECU Credit Union and get my career started on the right foot!"
17. Are you okay with routine work, or do you prefer a mix of responsibilities?
How to Answer
Much of a banking environment will be routine; however, the customers you interact with will change daily. So, although banking may offer routine, there is still variety in your day. Show the interviewer that you can handle the balance.
Let the interviewer know that you understand you will have the same goals and processes each day. At the same time, show that you can manage the challenge that comes with customer interaction and other factors that deliver unpredictability in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"I enjoy both working in a routine but also having a mix of responsibilities. In my current position, my schedule and goals are the same every day. What changes daily are my clients and their needs. These needs are where my day can become unpredictable. I enjoy that variety because it keeps me on my toes, engaged, and excited to come to work every day."
2nd Answer Example
"Although it may seem routine, no day is the same for me in the banking industry. Generally speaking, my job function remains the same every day, but my customers offer me variety in my day. I am pleased with the pace that this role offers."
18. Do you consider yourself a logical person, able to make sound judgments under pressure?
How to Answer
A logical person will typically:
- Pay close attention to detail, ensuring to avoid small errors
- Be a careful communicator with carefully chosen words and questions
- Lean on facts versus emotion or opinion
Tell a story of a time when you delivered a sound judgment under pressure by using your logical skills. If possible, keep your answer work-related.
If you are new to your career, you can use an example from your post-secondary experience or volunteer work. Be sure to showcase your logic and reasoning abilities. Share a brief overview of the problem, discuss the pro/cons of each decision you could have made, and tell the interviewer why the solution you chose was the best.
1st Answer Example
"I use good logic every day! As a bank teller, I face a multitude of issues surrounding people needing access to their funds. I use logic by figuring out how to arrange a customers' financial needs to meet policy while taking the path of least resistance. Just recently, I had a customer with an issue due to a hold on their paycheck when their rent was due. I was able to move the funds to another bank account that did not have a hold policy. This action enabled me to release the funds and help the customer pay their rent on time."
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I do consider myself very logical, which always helps me to make sound judgments. Just yesterday, I had a customer who was upset because our new bank teller in training was taking too long to complete her transaction. I am the assistant manager, so I stepped in to alleviate the situation. By showing the customer that I could expedite the process, she was able to calm down and be kinder to the trainee. It was not ideal for me to spend my time on a simple customer issue like this; however, it was important that I brought a level head to the situation."
19. Have you ever been terminated? If so, what were the circumstances surrounding your termination?
How to Answer
SECU Credit Union has to be very careful who they hire, since their employees are privy to sensitive customer and financial information. If you have faced job termination, you must be upfront about the situation. There is a high likelihood that SECU Credit Union will call references, and perform background checks including employment verification so its best that you be open and truthful from the start.
Being let go from your position is an unfortunate event; however, it happens to the best of us and often for situations that are out of our control. It's best to own up to it if you have ever lost your job. Be brief in your explanation but also let the interviewer know what you learned.
1st Answer Example
"Luckily, I have never experienced a termination; however, I understand that it happens to the best people at times. If I were up for termination, based on job performance, I would appreciate an open and transparent conversation with my boss. This way, I would have the opportunity to adjust my approach and redeem myself."
2nd Answer Example
"I experienced a termination earlier in my career; I was not as prompt as I am today and bit off more than I could chew between being a full-time student and a part-time retail employee. After coming to work late a couple of times, my boss lets me go. It was embarrassing and changed the course for me. I am much more dedicated and have not been late for work in years."
20. If hired, how will you begin to build trusting relationships with our clients and your co-workers?
How to Answer
Credit Unions often boast a tighter-knit customer base than traditional banks. Members of SECU Credit Union may have higher expectations when it comes to the level of service they receive from you, and it all begins with connection. With a wide range of backgrounds, and personalities; client and coworker connections can take time to form. Discuss how you ensure an active line of communication right from the start.
1st Answer Example
"First impressions can mean everything, so I will make a strong attempt to build a genuine connection with SECU Credit Union clients and team members. With your members, I can ask lighthearted discovery questions such as where they work, or if they have any fun vacations coming up. I will also be open to feedback on how I can best support them and their banking needs. With my co-workers, I will be there to listen, observe, learn, and support."
2nd Answer Example
"To build a trusting relationship with my co-workers, I will show up to work on time and dressed appropriately. I will listen to their coaching and ask for feedback. When it comes to the members of SECU Credit Union I will add value to every interaction and get to know them on a level that is personal yet still professional."
21. Your background is not in banking. Tell me what skills and characteristics qualify you for this position with SECU Credit Union.
How to Answer
Many people leave their primary industry and move into roles within banking. If you are transitioning between sectors, expect to answer a question like this and come prepared to defend why you want to change industries.
Your answer should be more profound than the typical, 'banking seems interesting to me' type of response. Think about why you feel that this transition into banking will be beneficial for your long term career.
Next, the interviewer would like to know which transferable skills you bring to this position. There are many ways that you can be a fit for a job, even though you do not come with direct industry experience. Think about the variety of skills that you have and how those can benefit SECU Credit Union.
1st Answer Example
"Time management, analytical thinking, and attention to detail are just some of the transferable skills I bring from the retail industry into banking. I have begun to study terminology for the banking industry and will have a firm grasp before my start date. I am fully prepared to transition into banking, an industry where I can grow and learn for many years to come."
2nd Answer Example
"I come from a retail sales setting; however, there are many similarities between my current role at your needs at SECU Credit Union. For starters, I am accustomed to sales targets and goals, delivering excellent client service, and cross-selling. Other useful skills include analytical thinking and strong research capabilities from my university experience."
22. Are you a patient person? How do you boost your patience level in challenging situations?
How to Answer
Have you ever stood in line at the bank and lost patience because of how long the line was taking? Now, put yourself in the shoes of a bank teller who has to face many challenges every day. In the banking industry, you may need to deal with customers who move slowly, customers who argue against bank policy, or those who are flustered due to a long line.
Patience is a virtue, which means that it isn't always easy to come by! Show the interviewer that you are patient individual by giving an example of a time when you displayed a lot of patience in a frustrating situation. Alternately, you can rely on a performance review where your boss commended you on your high tolerance to stress.
Impatience can cause a lot of stress and anxiety in coworkers and clients, so it is essential that you showcase your ability to remain patient and professional in workplace situations.
1st Answer Example
"I do consider myself to be a patient person; however, it's more of a learned skill that I have mastered over the years. I never demonstrate my frustration or impatience with others in the workplace. To do so is rude and counterproductive. To boost my patience level in challenging situations, I remind myself to have empathy for the other person and what they may be going through that day."
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I am a patient person. I like to learn, teach others, and take careful steps, ensuring that my work is well done. To boost my patience level in a challenging situation, I remind myself that I will come out of the circumstance with more knowledge than when I came into the situation. I take the approach of a student."
23. How would you approach a task you were not trained to do?
How to Answer
Thinking on your feet is an essential trait in the banking industry. There is a lot to learn and know, and many changes in the day as you help a large variety of customers with varying needs. The interviewer wants to see how you approach a situation when you do not possess the knowledge or training required.
The key to answering this question is to show that you are competent and able to find answers independently. Perhaps you are an excellent researcher, or maybe you ask others for help, without hesitation. Show the interviewer that you would remain calm and collected; doing what you need to get the job done right.
1st Answer Example
"Going into my last customer service job, I had minimal training on service and the point of sale system. I watched online tutorials from YouTube, asked my colleagues for help, and observed others on the job. If asked to complete a task that I was not trained to do, I would take the same approach. I am highly capable and a good researcher, so I'm confident in my ability to learn independently."
2nd Answer Example
"When I first started university, I was asked to give a presentation in the first week of my courses. I had never crafted a real presentation before, let alone speak in public, so I was very nervous. I spent an entire afternoon watching TED Talks so that I could get an idea of what makes a good presentation. Then, I brushed up on my PowerPoint skills and made engaging visuals. When I am asked to perform a task outside of my comfort zone, I jump in feet first and learn, using the resources available to me."
24. Do you have plans for continued education?
How to Answer
In many instances, you are not required to hold a post-secondary degree to work in a bank teller role. Other positions within banking do require a further degree. For the sake of career growth, the interviewer would like to know if you are planning to obtain higher education. Of course, this question applies only to those who have completed just a high-school diploma. If you are planning to return to school, discuss what you would want to take. Your answer should reflect an interest in continuing your career with SECU Credit Union.
SECU Credit Union may even offer tuition support or a reimbursement program for employees who wish to continue their education. If they do provide this type of perk, you can indeed show interest but make sure that your continued education aspirations are related to the industry and job. For instance, you may want to stick to a finance-related topic rather than saying you would like to take courses in zoology.
1st Answer Example
"Continued education is important to remain knowledgeable and relevant in the banking industry. I would be interested in earning a Bachelor's Degree in Finance at some point; allowing me to grow with SECU Credit Union into a lender-based role."
2nd Answer Example
"In banking, it is important to stay on top of your industry. For that reason, I believe that related coursework is always beneficial. I have had my eye on obtaining my MBA one day. Of course, I would obtain this throughout a couple of years as I work full time. Does SECU Credit Union encourage continued education, or offer tuition reimbursement?"
25. What would you do if you caught a co-worker stealing money from SECU Credit Union?
How to Answer
Since you will handle thousands upon thousands of dollars in cash every day, the interviewer wants assurance that you are responsible, keen, and honest. A part of honesty is also holding your co-workers accountable for their actions, and following SECU Credit Union policy. Discuss the steps you would take if you caught a co-worker stealing.
1st Answer Example
"I show pride in my work, and always take concern for the good of the company. I would feel obligated to report a co-worker stealing from the company, whether it was $10 or $10,000. If I were to witness a co-worker stealing, I would report the incident immediately."
2nd Answer Example
"Theft is never acceptable, no matter the amount of intention. If I witnessed a co-worker stealing money from SECU Credit Union, I would report the incident to my nearest supervisor. Of course, if you have a more formal process for reporting incidents of theft, I would refer to those guidelines."
26. One small error can throw off our entire balance. How do you react when you do something wrong at work?
How to Answer
In the banking industry, even a small mistake can make a massive impact on business operations. How you react to an error made will tell the interviewer a great deal about you and your honesty level.
Perhaps the mistake is one that could land you in a lot of trouble. The hiring authority at SECU Credit Union wants to know if you would try to hide the incident, or if you would tell your manager before the situation went beyond repair. Of course, the best way to answer this question is to show accountability.
1st Answer Example
"I can be my toughest critic when it comes to making mistakes. If I made an error, I would tell my manager right away. If a manager were not available, I would bring the situation to the attention of a co-worker capable of helping me fix the issue. Even being pennies off in a day can make a big impact so you can rest assured that I will deliver perfection."
2nd Answer Example
"I am an honest person who is accountable and eager to learn. These traits ensure that I ill take every action necessary to do my job perfectly. If I make a mistake, I want to learn from that error so I would most certainly bring the error to the attention of my manager. The sooner, the better, so that there are as few consequences as possible."
27. What do you enjoy about your career in banking?
How to Answer
Job satisfaction is a vital factor for success, for both you as an employee and SECU Credit Union. Employee turnover is an essential conversation in the workplace as it cost employers thousands of dollars to replace well-trained employees each time one moves on to another job.
When a company understands what brings satisfaction to their team members, they are better equipped to motivate their team members and ensure a long and healthy relationship. Talk to the interviewer about what satisfies you about your career, and why you work in banking.
1st Answer Example
"I have worked very hard to gain a leadership position within the banking industry. Being a teller manager allows me to be on the front lines training others to have lucrative careers, while still allowing me to be client-facing. I genuinely believe that my work matters, and that is what I enjoy most about a career in banking."
2nd Answer Example
"Working in banking, I gain the most satisfaction from knowing my clients are gaining a solid financial future. I care about the success of my customers, and when they are well-equipped to pay off debt, save money, and even retire early; it makes me so happy!"
28. Looking back to your most recent performance review; what was one area for improvement, and one positive?
How to Answer
This question is another way to ask about your strengths and weaknesses. By asking for specific performance evaluations, the hiring authority is more likely to get a direct answer and a better idea of the full picture.
If you do not have formal performance evaluations, you can also lean on a recent conversation with your direct manager. Your positive highlight can be big or small, but be sure to relate your positive points to the requirements of the SECU Credit Union job posting.
When you talk about your area for improvement, avoid mentioning something that would make you ineligible for the position. For instance, if you are interviewing for a banking position, simple math should not be your weakness. Also, be sure to discuss that you are actively working to improve this weakness.
1st Answer Example
"My most recent performance review was very positive. My boss is thrilled with my ability to analyze data on a client account very quickly; allowing me to see cross-selling opportunities quickly. One area for improvement was to speed up my work a little bit and get through my line of customers a bit faster. I am cautious at work; however, I am training myself to perform certain tasks faster without cutting any corners."
2nd Answer Example
"Formal performance evaluations are not part of my regular role, but I do get a lot of feedback daily. My manager comments quite often on my product knowledge, and how well I retain information, even with brand new roll-outs. One thing that I can work on is my typing speed. I am accurate and type about 50wpm, which isn't too bad, but I am practicing to get to 75wpm."
29. Do you have any questions about SECU Credit Union or this job?
How to Answer
When you come to a job interview prepared with intelligent questions, you are showing the interviewer that you have put care, thought, and attention into preparing yourself for the interview. Make sure the quality of your questions is high. Your questions should be insightful, and not subjects like 'How many locations do you have?' when you know that this information is available through a simple online search.
Some great questions to ask include:
- What do you believe sets SECU Credit Union apart from other local Credit Unions?
- What compliment does SECU Credit Union receive most often from its members?
- What is your favorite part about working here?
- What is the SECU Credit Union goal for this position in the next 12 months?
- Is there anything from my background and experience that I can clarify for you?
- Is there any reason why you would not hire me?
1st Answer Example
"I appreciate the opportunity to ask a few questions! What is top of mind when it comes to filling this role? Also, what types of career growth opportunities would follow this position? And lastly, do you have internal candidates who are also interviewing for this position?"
2nd Answer Example
"I do have a couple of questions prepared; thank you for asking. What is the biggest challenge facing credit unions in the next year? Could you share with me your employee turnover rate, and what your training program looks like?"
30. How much do you earn in your current role?
How to Answer
SECU Credit Union wants to know if their salary offering will be enough to win you over. Often, potential employers base your offer on what you are currently earning. So, although this question may feel very direct, the better you answer it, the higher the chance that your job offer will be satisfactory.
If you can, be transparent about your most recent earnings and your future expectations. Keep your answer simple, and to the point. It is okay to ask the interviewer what they are offering in return!
1st Answer Example
"My current annual salary is $48,000 per year. I seek a compensation plan aligned with the more significant responsibilities in this role. Could you share with me the compensation plan here at SECU Credit Union?"
2nd Answer Example
"I am a recent business graduate, seeking compensation that is fair considering my recent education. Being new to my career, I am most interested in joining an organization that will help me to grow my career."