34 Standard Bank Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Standard Bank 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.
Table of Contents
- 1. Adaptability Questions
- 2. Ask The Interviewer Questions
- 3. Behavioral Questions
- 4. Career Goals Questions
- 5. Communication Questions
- 6. Competency Questions
- 7. Customer Service Questions
- 8. Direct Questions
- 9. Leadership Questions
- 10. Management Questions
- 11. Motivation Questions
- 12. Salary Questions
- 13. Stress Questions
- 14. Teamwork Questions
- 15. Technical Questions
Adaptability
1. How long will it take you to make a meaningful contribution to our team at Standard Bank?
How to Answer
While hiring managers understand that you will need some time to get up to speed in your role, you should convey to your interviewer that you're ready to hit the ground running on day one. Standard Bank has a reputation to maintain as Africa's biggest lender by assets and wants to ensure that its employees will only improve the company and add to its bottom line. As such, hiring managers are looking to hire the best of the best to maintain a positive company reputation. With an abundance of qualified candidates looking to enter the banking and financial services industry, hiring managers want employees who will be productive in their roles right away and won't need excessive training.
Answer Example
"I plan to make an impact as soon as possible at Standard Bank. I've already researched this position and have all the requisite skills outlined in the position description, along with proficiency in other relevant skills that I think would be useful in developing the (XYZ) project at Standard Bank. As you can tell, I'm incredibly eager to get started, which is why I have created a 90-day impact plan that I would like to share with you. After that, I'm interested in hearing from you about any additional actions that I haven't included that I could take in the first week to succeed in this role."
Adaptability
2. We're looking for team members who approach challenges with ease at Standard Bank. What do you see as one initial hurdle you will have to overcome in your first weeks on the job?
How to Answer
Your interviewer wants to know that you will proactively respond to challenges right off the bat and fit in well with Standard Bank's hardworking team. Further, your interviewer wants to ascertain whether you have the formal training needed to be successful on the job or if you'll need support to fill in training gaps. While being honest about potential challenges you might encounter during your onboarding, emphasize your plan of attack for dealing with any hurdles. If you can think of an example off the top of your head, share with your interviewer a time when you were confronted with a challenge at a new job and how you responded to this adversity.
1st Answer Example
"Having put a lot of thought into this even before submitting my resume for this position, I realize that my greatest hurdle would be moving to a different industry. My five years of experience out of college have been focused on capital markets, but I feel that I've built a solid knowledge base to transition into a role focused on wealth management at Standard Bank. If given the opportunity to join your team, I would initially focus on learning all I can about the wealth management team."
2nd Answer Example
"Understanding that my role here at Standard Bank would have me working with the entire advisory staff, the first hurdle would be getting to know everyone on that team and showcasing the skills that I could bring to their work. If hired for the job, I would hope to be invited to team meetings where I could introduce myself and my role with the team, and I'd invite an open conversation with the entire team."
Ask The Interviewer
3. Do you have any questions about this job or working for Standard Bank?
How to Answer
Remember, it's not a badge of honor to say that you have no questions. Many candidates feel that by saying they do not have questions, they show that they have researched the job and fully comprehend the requirements. Don't fall into that trap. One of the biggest interview mistakes you can make is not having any relevant questions prepared.
By asking an insightful question, you show the interviewer full engagement and interest. Be sure that your queries are not mundane or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a question that is easily answered by simple research. Dig a bit deeper and ask questions related to the company's goals, your interviewer's favorite part about working for Standard Bank, upcoming changes in the banking and financial services industry, or clarification on something from your resume.
1st Answer Example
"While I've already shared with you the 90-day plan that I've drawn up to ensure that I'll hit the ground running, I'm curious to learn more from you about any steps in particular that you think I could take to be successful in this role. Are there any specific actions not encompassed by the position description that you think are important?"
2nd Answer Example
"Thank you for asking! I was wondering if you could explain more about the opportunities for growth within the CASA Training Programme. What is the typical career trajectory at Standard Bank for participants?"
Behavioral
4. Tell me about a time where you had to balance multiple responsibilities at the same time. How did you prioritize tasks?
How to Answer
A role at Standard Bank will require you to effectively prioritize your time while contributing to various projects. For this question, your interviewer is looking to see that you can effectively juggle multiple projects at once and still hit your goals as a Standard Bank team member. Give a specific professional example that demonstrates just that. Openly share any challenges you have faced in balancing multiple responsibilities and ensure that you focus your discussion on the strategies you've developed to efficiently prioritize and complete multiple tasks.
Answer Example
"In my previous position, I typically had 3-4 long-term projects going at once mixed in with 5-6 short-term tasks that were more time-sensitive. While challenging to juggle diverse projects in different areas, I found that I could develop an effective system to make sure I stayed on track with short and long-term projects and hit all my deadlines. I did so with an online time tracking software to structure my day with the most important items to be tackled first. I then broke long-term projects into chunks and scheduled regular work on these tasks later on in the day to make sure I stayed on track to complete these projects."
Behavioral
5. Staying on the cutting edge of technology is a key component of our business model at Standard Bank. Describe how you use technology, personally and professionally, to build relationships.
How to Answer
A central part of Standard Bank's mission is to be 'fully human' and 'fully digital' simultaneously. And with an increasingly digital global landscape, it's more important than ever to use the technology you'll have available to you to build and maintain relationships. Use various examples to demonstrate the experience you've had adapting to the latest changes in technology to more efficiently do your job and maintain key relationships. You might point to the various systems you rely on most frequently to meet with clients, manage customer relationships, and collaborate on tasks.
1st Answer Example
"In my experience, relationships are central to success in the banking industry. I regularly use various meeting platforms -- like Zoom, Teams, and Google Meet -- to check in with clients and colleagues and add a more human touch to remote meetings. I find these calls to be much more effective than a traditional phone call. I also have experience working with various customer management systems to keep track of progress and ensure that clients remain engaged. In my personal life, I use many of the same video platforms to connect with distant family and friends as well as utilize social media for personal and professional updates."
2nd Answer Example
"Technology has allowed me to connect with colleagues and clients in locations all over the world amidst an increasingly remote workforce. I think it's critical to use the new technologies we have available to us to make our work more productive and effective. The past few years, I've incorporated social media into my prospecting process. LinkedIn has been a fantastic tool for engaging more deeply with existing and prospective clients. I strive for transparency in my relationships by sharing my calendar with colleagues and clients and allowing them to grab a spot on my calendar whenever they need to meet. When we can't see each other face to face, it's critical to regularly check in with phone and video calls and messages, whether in my personal or professional life."
Behavioral
6. We expect our team members at Standard Bank to have excellent interpersonal skills. Tell me about a time when your listening skills helped you solve a problem.
How to Answer
Your interviewer is asking this question to better understand how you will operate in a team and interact with your coworkers. This question is particularly relevant for those who will serve in a client-facing role. In the financial services world, active listening is key to maintaining successful and long-term client relationships. Your interviewer knows that listening is a valuable yet challenging skill that takes time and effort to improve.
Give an example that demonstrates how you avoided miscommunication and worked towards a goal by using your listening skills. This means giving the speaker your full attention and asking clarifying questions afterward to check your understanding.
Answer Example
"My boss asked me to manage a project that involved various tasks that I had never done before, including running new reports that would aid in solving a consistent customer problem we had encountered. After my boss communicated the main issues clients were experiencing, I made sure I understood what she needed of me by asking straightforward questions, including 'So what you're asking is...?', 'Do you mean that you need me to do (X)?,' and 'What do you think about (X) approach?' When navigating new territory, I found it helpful to include active clarifying questions in my listening approach. I jumped on the project right away, and my boss was impressed with the solution I designed."
Behavioral
7. Exceptional logical reasoning skills are central to this role. Tell me about a time when you had to analyze information in order to make a recommendation.
How to Answer
Your interviewer is looking to get a sense of the analytical and problem-solving skills you've developed in past roles and how you would apply these skills to a new role at Standard Bank. In your answer, focus on describing your attention to detail and your sharp focus on data and statistics. Include an example that demonstrates your thought process when drawing conclusions from information. Give as much insight into your process as you can to show you can take an analytical approach to problem-solving.
Ensure that the skills you point to are in line with the position description. If the PD calls for software or program-specific knowledge to perform analyses, be sure to include your experience with those specific resources in your answer. If not, emphasize how you've developed analytical soft skills that allow you to solve problems effectively.
Answer Example
"I worked for a financial advisory firm last year and had a client who was looking for investment recommendations. I gathered data on the stocks they were interested in, sorting through trends and historical data to determine the most promising returns. Using in-house software, I plugged in variables related to the client's age, target retirement, and risk tolerance, among others. I shared the various possible outcomes with my client, which allowed me to make a well-informed recommendation about the best stock options to meet his financial goals."
Behavioral
8. Tell me about a time you faced uncertainty. How did you handle it?
How to Answer
Ambiguity is an inevitable part of most jobs and especially those within the financial services industry. Your interviewer wants to know that you are comfortable with uncertainty and can use solid logical reasoning skills to find the best path forward. While some employers are okay with answering every little question you might have, know that most employers don't want to have to hold your hand through every project. Using an experience as an example, demonstrate your ability to run with a situation even if you don't have every little detail.
1st Answer Example
"I think that uncertainty keeps the job exciting, so I can assure you I'm comfortable with not having every piece of information. When I worked for a tech startup a few years ago, each day presented new challenges and uncertainties that we had to tackle. Our first time onboarding a new client was particularly challenging, as we didn't already have precedents in place. I handled this uncertainty through diligent preparation in the weeks leading up to our kick-off call. I did extensive research on the client, made sure I was comfortable with our project management tools and created various contingency plans. Overall, onboarding went well, and we developed a close relationship with this client filled with productive work together. Even though they were our first client and we had no blueprint to follow, I approached the situation by listening closely to the clients' pain points and developing subsequent deliverables to address each one."
2nd Answer Example
"As I'm sure you and your team are well aware, last year was a particularly volatile one for the market. As a result, I dealt with uncertainty daily. Over time, I became quite comfortable with this uncertainty and communicated it effectively to my clients. I found that regular communication and well-thought-out plans for varying scenarios were best to deal with uncertainty. Further, I became comfortable with changing the course of action at a moment's notice depending on a client's risk tolerance and financial goals."
Behavioral
9. We expect our team members to solve complex problems. Give me an example of a time when you had to solve a problem without having all of the necessary information at hand to do so. How did you handle that situation?
How to Answer
For this question, your interviewer is looking to test your ability to be analytical and resourceful in a specific situation in which you had to dig further to solve a problem. Before your interview, think of a time in the past when you encountered this specific situation and talk through it by laying out the problem and walking through the step-by-step approach you took to solve the problem. Be as detailed in your explanation of your thought process and how you worked hard to use the resources you had to ultimately solve the problem. Your interviewer will be relying on these fine details to truly see how you will perform on the job with Standard Bank.
Many positions at Standard Bank will require you to work independently without having all the details you need. Senior-level leadership isn't there to hold your hand through a project, so make sure your interviewer knows that you can do your job well, even if you're missing a few of the puzzle pieces.
1st Answer Example
"Back when I first joined my current organization, I took on a role that had been vacant for many months. I had to start with a backlog of work along with my regular daily activities. This customer service role included logging daily visitors and calls, and the interim rep only kept brief notes. After taking the time to walk through training and get running on my own, I realized that the current workload wouldn't allow me to catch up on the backlog of work that had been missed. While I had ideas about how to play catch up on the work, I approached my supervisor with a few ideas, and we settled on having me log hours from home on our system as overtime to get caught up. I worked with our IT staff on getting set up on our network from home and was more than willing to help out with some extra hours."
2nd Answer Example
"Working for a large financial institution, our advisory staff help cover for each other when we are on vacation, sick, or simply out of office for the day. We typically team up in groups of three to help provide coverage for each other. A couple of months ago, I fielded a call from a colleague's client while she was away on vacation and completely out of phone coverage. The client had several questions about their finances that I couldn't help resolve off the top of my head. I let them know that their advisor was away on vacation, but I would take the next hour to research their questions and get back to them shortly. This was a very acceptable path of action to the client, and I took the time to get their questions answered quickly."
Behavioral
10. Talk to me about a challenging situation you had to handle on the job that involved another colleague. How did you handle that situation?
How to Answer
At the heart of this question, your interviewer wants to know how you use solid interpersonal and relationship-building skills to diffuse a difficult situation with a coworker. A central part of Standard Bank's company culture is that they value diverse ways of thinking. As such, you will likely encounter colleagues who have different perspectives and backgrounds than you. Your interviewer wants to hear that you'll be able to effectively manage diverse perspectives and even potential conflict as a team member.
No matter what situation you discuss, make sure to keep your answer positive by walking through the steps you took to turn a potentially hazardous situation into a good one. Emphasize the lessons you learned from that situation that you keep with you to this day.
1st Answer Example
"A few years back, we hired a junior advisor on our team, and I was tasked with being his mentor. Having mentored several other thriving junior advisors before he started, I was excited about the opportunity. Within the first week of him being on the job, I overheard a colleague talking openly about his disdain for the hire of this new advisor. I decided to speak to my colleague in a private office about my concern about his words. Having been a part of the interview process and his early mentorship, I knew he had the skills to succeed, and I reiterated that to my colleague. After agreeing to cease his critique of the new advisor, I learned that direct conversations are the best way to handle workplace conflicts. The junior advisor went on to be quite successful at the firm. I learned from this experience the importance of open communication and friendly assertiveness when working with my colleagues."
2nd Answer Example
"A couple of years ago, I approached a colleague that had missed a deadline on a big audit we were conducting, and she completely blew up at me during our conversation. At first, I was taken aback by her response because I had never witnessed that from her in many years of working together. While remaining calm, I allowed her the opportunity to vent to me, and it turns out that she was going through a lot of things in her personal life that was impacting her work. While keeping our project deadlines in mind, I also took a personal approach to let her know that she could bring these issues to me as both a colleague and a friend and work through them together in the future. Through this experience, I learned the importance of treating all clients and colleagues as multifaceted humans, often with a lot going on. It's made me a better listener and team member in the workplace."
Behavioral
11. At Standard Bank, we're looking for team members who will respond proactively to unexpected economic changes. How do you react to setbacks in the market?
How to Answer
As the market ebbs, flows, and financial regulations shift, working in finance can be a bumpy ride. For this reason, the interviewer at Standard Bank would like to know that you can handle the ups and downs of the industry. Be prepared to discuss how you respond to setbacks and maintain a sense of calm and direction amidst a potentially volatile market. Many roles within the banking industry will require you to serve in a client-facing role, making it more critical to maintain your composure amidst market turbulence.
Answer Example
"As a commission-driven financial advisor, I am competitive with myself and my past performance and hyper-targeted when it comes to achieving my goals. I become internally frustrated when I do not meet my goals or a 'done deal' with a client falls through. When this happens, I do a rundown of what I could have done differently, trying to pinpoint where things could have gone wrong. I aim to learn from the situation so that it doesn't hold me back again."
Career Goals
12. We are looking for the most motivated individuals to join the team here at Standard Bank. Where would you like your career to take you in the next five to ten years?
How to Answer
With over 50,000 employees, Standard Bank is a large corporation with a prominent position to maintain within the African market. They are looking for the most capable and motivated financial professionals to add to their leading team.
This common interview question puts you in a tough spot. You should talk about your ultimate career goals while also balancing the present needs of Standard Bank. You might include certifications or credentials you hope to attain to maintain an industry cutting edge. While your interviewer may be looking for a long-term fit for the position, it is okay to set your sights higher as long as your goals meet those of the organization.
1st Answer Example
"Now that I am to the midway point of my career, I am looking for my next move to be my final move in finding my work home until I retire. As a financial advisor, I want to focus on growing my skills in advising clients and providing the best service possible. As I continue to grow in my skills and prove my worth to you, a long-term career goal is to be in management where I could oversee the work of junior analysts and advisors and mentor them towards success."
2nd Answer Example
"While I'm open to where my skills and passions will take me in my career, my primary interest lies in investment banking. That's why I think that beginning my career at Standard Bank will allow me to dive deep into your product offerings and services and clarify where I want to be in a few years within the IB space. I know that beginning a career here allows for some great mentoring and networking opportunities, so I'm excited to learn firsthand about the industry and where a career with Standard Bank could take me."
Communication
13. In this role, you will have to interact with clients about 50% of the time. Discuss how you approach explaining complex ideas to clients in simple terms.
How to Answer
A crucial part of customer service is ensuring that you can make complex information digestible for your clients. After all, that's why clients hire professionals as the expert! Your interviewer wants to hear that you have developed solid strategies to translate financial or business jargon into easy-to-understand terms for clients whose knowledge is likely less specialized in these areas. In your answer, describe your communication style and, if you can, provide an example of a time you explained a complex idea in simple terms with good results.
Remember, this skill also translates to positive interpersonal work on a team, central to Standard Bank's company culture. Your ability to communicate your ideas clearly and impacts how well you work with others.
1st Answer Example
"I strive for a straightforward and concise communication style with clients and colleagues. In my previous work as a financial advisor, I focused on listening to my clients and their most pressing financial needs and goals. I made an effort to echo their language and avoid esoteric ideas that I knew wouldn't be relevant to what they needed to hear. Above all, I ensure that my tone is never patronizing towards clients or colleagues. I often learn something new from those I work with and place great value on hearing their input."
2nd Answer Example
"To communicate effectively, I strive to convey the essence of an idea in simple terms rather than deep-diving into the details of more technical matters. I've found this to be an important component of humility within the industry. Furthermore, If I'm having trouble explaining a new concept in simple terminology, I've found that it usually means that I have more research to do myself. I place incredible value on continuous learning within the industry via publications, newsletters, podcasts, and conferences. Keeping myself educated allows me to explain complicated ideas in a way that makes sense to people outside of the industry."
Communication
14. You will sometimes be asked to contribute to or give presentations for this position. Do you have experience preparing and delivering presentations?
How to Answer
Part of what you're expected to do at Standard Bank may include planning, preparing, and delivering presentations to clients or other stakeholders. Public speaking can be intimidating. It's natural to feel nervous, but the interviewer wants to see that this does not get in the way of your preparation and ability to communicate well. If applicable, discuss any courses or training you have taken related to public speaking or explain the informal experience in this capacity. Assure the interviewer that you are capable by reviewing times when you successfully prepared and gave presentations to a group of people.
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I regularly present to my clients and my team of twenty advisors. To help me gain confidence as a speaker and presenter, I became a Toastmasters member two years ago. Since joining, I have taken courses such as 'The Better Speaker' series, 'Beginning Your Speech,' and 'Concluding Your Speech.' I also have training in PowerPoint, Prezi, and Keynote, ensuring that my presentations are visually engaging."
2nd Answer Example
"The bulk of my presentation experience comes from my time in university, where I prepared a variety of speeches and presentation decks. I am a confident public speaker and have regularly presented to groups of my peers without any issues. I look forward to gaining even more experience in preparing and delivering professional presentations for clients and internal stakeholders at Standard Bank."
Competency
15. Analytical skills are critical to success in this role at Standard Bank. In which ways are you analytically-minded?
How to Answer
Standard Bank looks for team members who can provide logical solutions to their client's financial problems. While specific positions will require more formal hard skills than others, solid logical reasoning skills are essential in any role at Standard Bank.
There are many ways to show your analytical thinking. Perhaps you are great at researching or investigating a problem. Maybe you take clear and logical steps in everything you do, or perhaps you show a systematic and clear-cut approach to reaching your goals and completing tasks. Be prepared with examples to demonstrate how you are analytically minded and how this strength makes you an exceptional professional in the financial industry.
1st Answer Example
"As a business analyst, I use my analytical skills when detecting patterns in financial trends, observing and interpreting data, theorizing on where the market is going, or brainstorming ideas for my clients when their decisions depend on multiple market factors. I take pride in my analytical abilities because they help me to do my job well and provide helpful answers to my clients' biggest questions."
2nd Answer Example
"Given my university experience, I think of my analytical skills as one of my strong suits as a finance professional. As a computer science and finance double major, I regularly engaged in projects that allowed me to gather and organize data, perform various analyses to draw conclusions, and finally communicate how these data-informed trends would impact solutions to the project. I was a le to learn R, Python, and MatLab to aid in this process. As a result, I consider myself to be an analytical and logical thinker, which I think will be helpful in working with clients to make well-thought-out and data-informed financial decisions."
Customer Service
16. Clients can display an array of emotions within the financial services industry. How would you handle a situation in which a client was very angry?
How to Answer
Whether it be a client who has lost a large amount of money on the market or a client who feels they were ill-advised by a consultant, your job in a client-facing role will at some point or another lead you to deal with an irate client. For this answer, your interviewer will expect to hear that you do what is necessary to stay calm and focused in finding a resolution. If possible, use a specific example of when you had to do exactly this and explain how critical communication was in making the situation right for the client.
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. My key to working through these situations was to remain calm and not take things personally. As in the financial world, the insurance business is a life-altering experience, and a loss or damage to an item is very stressful. I tried to put myself in the customer's shoes, see things from their perspective, and do my best to ease their situation. In this role with Standard Bank, these same skills would be vital for me when finding solutions or the right person for the client to consult if needed."
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 an irate 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."
Customer Service
17. If you were having an interaction with a client here at Standard Bank, 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
In a client-facing role with Standard Bank, you may be asked complex or esoteric questions that you don't know or aren't qualified to answer. In those situations, you will be expected to explain to the customer the plan you have in place to get that question answered. Make sure you deliver a timeline on when it can be answered. Humility and a solutions-oriented approach are key here; be clear that you will not attempt to answer a question that you are not qualified to answer, and ensure that you will do everything in your power to find out an answer. Maintaining trust and confidence with clients is critical.
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 these situations, I have a great amount of knowledge to prepare the customer to speak with the right person while also ensuring that the sales, finance, or service staff will provide the final answer. Then, I work quickly to get them to the right person."
2nd Answer Example
"In a situation where I didn't know an answer, I would reassure the client that we have the right staff in place to help them quickly and efficiently. I would communicate to the customer what the next step is, whether that is putting them directly in contact with the right person or taking their contact information so that someone can get back to them."
Direct
18. What is your greatest weakness as a banking professional?
How to Answer
This common interview question is an opportunity to demonstrate self-insight. Give an honest answer with a real weakness you have been focusing on, and explain the plan you've put into place to work on it. Just make sure that the weakness isn't a core competency of the Standard Bank job description. If it's an analyst role, revealing 'logical reasoning skills' as a weakness likely won't get you far. Reflect on traits you want to work on, but that won't affect overall job success.
Honesty and self-awareness are key for this question. Interviewers have heard it all and will see through phony attempts to present a trait as a weakness that is not a weakness.
1st Answer Example
"I've been working on finding my voice when meeting with upper-level management. While I know the ideas I bring to the table are valuable, I've always been introverted and therefore have been working on feeling more confident with pitching ideas in these meetings. This has been my primary area of focus for improvement in the last few months, and one of my colleagues even recently commented that he had noticed a difference in the frequency of my contributions."
2nd Answer Example
"I take a lot of pride in the work I do and often struggle to delegate tasks to other members of my team. Even though I trust my coworkers and know what fantastic work they do, I've gotten in the habit of seeing tasks through from start to finish. I got to a point where this was no longer feasible with the new responsibilities I had taken on, so I've been working on feeling more comfortable asking for help from my colleagues when I need it. While this weakness is still a work in progress for me, I've learned how important it is to communicate effectively with and rely on my team."
Direct
19. What do you feel is the one quality that sets you apart from other candidates who have applied to this position?
How to Answer
At a reputable, successful company like Standard Bank, many qualified candidates are likely vying for the same position you are applying for. Therefore, you'll need to stand out by highlighting that one key quality that makes you the best person for this position. It might have to do with your educational or professional background, a personality trait you'll bring to the team or another aspect of your identity that makes you unique. Remember that many candidates are hardworking, motivated, and accomplished. Reflect on what is unique about your story or career trajectory to help you succeed in this role.
Don't just point out the reasons why you're qualified. Each individual who's gotten a Standard Bank interview for this role is likely qualified enough. Rather, spend time reflecting beforehand on how your unique experiences will make you the best person for the job and convey that confidently to the interviewer.
1st Answer Example
"As you know from my resume and what we've discussed so far today, I'm confident that I have the formal training and experience needed to be successful in this role. What makes me different as an applicant is my experience with shareholder engagement, ESG investing, and sustainable portfolio management. In my last role at (XYZ) company, I increased company shareholder engagement by 30% and averaged 10% returns for clients while managing their sustainable portfolios. As you can see, I'm not only passionate about these important issues but have a proven track record of success."
2nd Answer Example
"From what I understand about this role in insurance with Standard Bank, my day-to-day work will include a lot of client interaction, and I truly feel like the job description was written with my skills and abilities in mind. But I also bring a crosssection of experience via my retail sales experience. Over my five years in retail, I have developed product knowledge and selling skills that would be beneficial to this role marketing and selling insurance plans."
Direct
20. We're looking for individuals with relevant academic and professional experience to fill this role. What are the top three skills you acquired in your last role?
How to Answer
You have likely gained many valuable skills in your academic and professional career. Your interviewer wants to hear about the skills that will be most relevant to a role at Standard Bank. Before the interview, make a list of the best skills you have developed in your most recent role. Make sure to include both hard and soft skills, and then reflect on which are most relevant to this role and which provide the best examples to share with your interviewer.
1st Answer Example
"In the past few years, I was able to upgrade my education while still working full-time. The biggest skill I gained was my ability to multi-task as I worked the dual role of employee and student. I worked incredibly hard to balance these responsibilities, and I would bring this motivation to the role of an analyst. I also pride myself on my curiosity. Expanding the breadth of my knowledge is important to me, and I did that academically. My curiosity itself is a motivator for me, and my attitude toward learning keeps me humble and hungry. As for a third skill, I would say that I'm personable. I've always been a people person and work well with others. At my current job, I work with a team of six people. We've developed a top-notch strategy for communicating and divvying up tasks."
2nd Answer Example
"There are many skills I gained in my most recent position as I underwent a fantastic training program and worked with strong mentors. If I had to choose three top skills, I would say effective multitasking, solid closing skills, and accountability. I take my commitments to clients and my colleagues very seriously, and I feel confident in my ability to deliver on those traits."
Direct
21. Tell me what you know about Standard Bank.
How to Answer
Ensure that you've done your homework beforehand and can speak confidently about Standard Bank's history, mission, and products. Interviewers can easily see if you've done adequate research and preparation before the interview or if you know next to nothing about the company. Make sure you become familiar with Standard Bank's website and secondary sources that provide useful information about the company.
In addition, if you're already connected to an employee of Standard Bank, reach out before the interview to have a quick coffee chat about their role and experience with Standard Bank. You don't need to be an expert, but you should be well-versed in Standard Bank's products and services and what will be required in this role.
Answer Example
"I've followed Standard Bank's work for years and understand that you provide banking and financial services, including insurance and loans, to individuals in Africa and all over the world. You're the clear banking frontrunner among competitors within Africa, as the largest lender by assets in Africa. What is most attractive to me about Standard Bank is the emphasis you've placed over the years on sustainable development within Africa through the products and services you provide. It's of central importance to me as a banking professional to work for a company that creates value in multiple facets of society and is not simply profit-driven. Standard Bank has proven to be such a company over the years. Further, I admire the emphasis you've placed as a company on helping young professionals develop in their careers, whether that's via leadership, internships, or the CASA Training Programme."
Direct
22. For this role at Standard Bank, we're looking for someone who will fit into the existing team culture, which is quite hardworking and collaborative. How do you believe your coworkers would describe you?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to get a better sense of your self-awareness regarding others' perceptions of you. Give an honest answer that gives your interviewer more information on what kind of team member they can expect you to be.
Here are a few keywords to get you started brainstorming:
- Encouraging
- Caring
- Knowledgeable
- Reliable
- Focused
- Honest
- Assertive
- Tenacious
- Motivated
- Ambitious
- Conscientious
Answer Example
"My coworkers have told me that I'm a good listener and easy to collaborate with on projects, so it sounds like the team culture for this role aligns well with my work style. I believe that communication is key to success within any work project or relationship, which is why I've honed my listening abilities and assertiveness over the years. Coworkers have also described me as driven and motivated. I tackle projects head-on and set lofty but attainable goals for myself."
Direct
23. What is your greatest strength as a banking professional?
How to Answer
Demonstrate your self-awareness by pointing out a strength that you've honed over the years. Ideally, you'll discuss a skill that is directly relevant to the role to which you're applying. Having a tangible example will strengthen your answer.
1st Answer Example
"My colleagues often comment on my communication skills. They appreciate that I'm true to my word and follow up with any questions if I'm not sure about something. I'm not afraid to ask clarifying questions and discuss next steps and deadlines to make sure everyone is on the same page."
2nd Answer Example
"I have been told by previous supervisors that I take the initiative in my work. I proactively work to sort out problems when they arise and work effectively in a team when necessary to fix an issue. During an end-of-year review with my boss last year, she commented on how much she appreciates the initiative and leadership I show when a stressful situation pops up."
Leadership
24. We want our employees at Standard Bank to demonstrate strong leadership skills. How would you describe your management style?
How to Answer
While Standard Bank emphasizes a collaborative work culture, it's crucial for candidates to demonstrate excellent leadership potential that will set them apart from the pack. Before your interview, reflect on the leadership style and skills you have developed over the years. Regardless of which role you're applying to, your interviewer wants to hear that you have taken on leadership responsibilities in previous roles and have the capacity to grow with Standard Bank. Your answer can touch on how these traits fit into Standard Bank's collaborative and supportive team culture.
1st Answer Example
"My overall management style centers on building a positive team atmosphere. I believe that each person and role brings a specific skill set to the overall goals and purpose of a team. As such, I promote a team-based atmosphere by clarifying everyone's role on the team, keeping every person's objectives clear, rewarding great performers on the team, and holding people accountable for their actions. If hired for this role at Standard Bank, you can be assured that I would bring this collaborative and team-focused leadership style to the table for each project."
2nd Answer Example
"I think that it is crucial for a leader of others to be flexible in their style rather than relying on just one of the canned management styles. I want to highlight my abilities to lead as a manager who works to grow and develop my staff to help them achieve their career goals and a leader who can provide direction and authority when the time for it arises. By knowing my team well and promoting our goals, I can assign work to the right people and follow through with my team on meeting all objectives necessary."
Management
25. For this position, you will be working closely with a small team and a manager on various tasks. Describe your ideal boss.
How to Answer
Your interviewer wants to make sure that your ideal boss aligns with Standard Bank's company culture. This question will give your interviewer a better idea of your work style regarding how you operate in a team and respond to authority figures. Make sure you keep it positive.
1st Answer Example
"I've been lucky to have had great supervisors in previous roles and my current job. I tend to work best in a team environment with regular communication with my coworkers and supervisor. An ideal boss makes expectations clear and checks in on projects regularly but also gives me enough leeway to operate independently on certain projects. That being said, I'm pretty flexible as a worker and can adjust to various management styles."
2nd Answer Example
"My ideal boss is someone who values team input and does not rely strictly on a top-down approach to decisions. My current boss has been great because she regularly seeks out our opinions and ideas on projects, which I appreciate. I feel like my input is valued, and I've developed my communication and leadership skills through the regular opportunities she gives us to contribute in a meaningful way."
Motivation
26. We're looking for team members who are motivated to contribute to our mission here at Standard Bank. Why do you want to work for us?
How to Answer
It's a straightforward question, and you can expect to receive some version of it during your interview with Standard Bank. Above all, demonstrate your excitement and motivation to pursue a career with Standard Bank, highlighting why your skills and background make you the best person for the job. Keep in mind while answering this question that job interviews are a two-way street: while you undoubtedly have many reasons why you stand to benefit, personally and professionally, from a career at Standard Bank, don't forget to also emphasize how the team at Standard Bank will benefit from your skills and work.
Answer Example
"I've had my eye on pursuing a career with Standard Bank for the past few years. Through various internships and professional experiences, I've been able to explore different areas of financial services, which has ultimately led me to discover that my primary professional interest is corporate banking. I'm incredibly motivated to join Standard Bank's corporate banking team for a variety of reasons. Still, I'm most drawn to this bank in particular for the impressive emphasis you've placed on sustainable development over the years. As a banking professional it's of central importance to create social and environmental value in my work rather than just financial value. I feel confident that Standard Bank will offer a collaborative work environment that will allow me to live out those values as a team member."
Salary
27. We offer competitive pay and benefits at Standard Bank. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
Interviewees often feel uncomfortable discussing compensation because they are worried that they will give a number that's too high or too low. Answering this question tactfully requires a fine balance of knowing your professional worth and understanding what Standard Bank can realistically offer you for compensation. Rather than giving a specific number, it's best to provide a realistic range that allows room for negotiation. It's helpful to research beforehand using various online resources to ensure you have a good idea of the salary range.
If you're unsure of a fair range for this position, this question is an opportunity to discuss with the interviewer. To avoid pigeonholing yourself into a salary that's lower than what they might offer you, you can ask your interviewer if they can share the typical salary range for the role.
1st Answer Example
"I'm looking for compensation that's in line with my qualifications and experience. Given my graduate degree and six years of experience at (XYZ) company, I'm seeking compensation in the range of $75,000 - 80,000."
2nd Answer Example
"Thanks for asking. I was hoping to get more information first about the salary range you're offering for this position. Would you be able to share that information with me?"
Stress
28. This position at Standard Bank requires a high degree of collaboration. If hired for this role, how would you handle stressed-out clients or team members?
How to Answer
Many roles at Standard Bank require you to think and act quickly in a fast-paced environment. As a result, you will likely deal with colleagues and clients who are stressed out, overwhelmed, or working under tight deadlines. Depending on your role at Standard Bank, you might also need to work long hours and face stressful deadlines. Your interviewer wants to know that you will be able to work effectively in that kind of environment. Discuss a time when you've thrived in a high-pressure and fast-paced environment like this in the past, highlighting the personality traits that have contributed to your success in these types of situations.
Answer Example
"Being a person that thrives in a fast-paced work environment, I'm confident in my ability to handle stressed colleagues and clients. As you can see from my resume, I've spent the last two years in the investment banking industry, where my team handled an enormous workload and worked under incredibly tight deadlines all of the time. Realizing that someone else's stress wasn't directed at me was the key to maintaining personal health and balance on the job. Furthermore, I learned to use tight deadlines as motivation to work as efficiently as possible. My experience in banking allowed me to grow comfortable with market volatility and communicate the factors outside of my control. I imagine I would be drawing on these experiences frequently as a team member with Standard Bank."
Teamwork
29. We're looking for personable and well-connected individuals to join this team. How would you plan to build relationships with your team members at Standard Bank?
How to Answer
Your interviewer wants to hear that you will be proactive in getting to know your colleagues and fitting into Standard Bank's collaborative and diverse culture. Discuss how you have done this in the past and how you would do it if hired for this position. Talk about the value you place on building strong relationships with members of your team. It will be most beneficial for your answer to draw on specific experiences you have had building relationships with colleagues in previous positions.
Answer Example
"From my first day on the job, I would take the time to break the ice with my colleagues by setting up an individual meeting with each person. In the past, I've done these meetings over lunch or in an office where I've had questions prepared to get to know the person both personally and professionally. I want to ask my colleagues what they expect from me and what I can expect from them. I've found that these conversations help open doors for working with each other moving forward."
Teamwork
30. If hired for this role, what kind of team player could we expect you to be?
How to Answer
Teamwork is the key to success at Standard Bank. You can expect to work closely with a Standard Bank team, and many roles will also require you to liaise with other departments. Your answer should highlight themes of building trust, gaining respect, and being professionally prepared as part of a larger team. Don't hesitate to show flexibility in your ability to both lead others and be led by others, and use examples of times that you've done both.
1st Answer Example
"My current colleagues would tell you that I'm knowledgeable in my area of expertise and use this expertise to contribute to the larger team. In addition, I'm able to communicate effectively and take direction from others. I'm also always willing to help out other teams or divisions when necessary. I understand that I would be working very closely with the insurance team at Standard Bank, which I assume would involve some degree of interdepartmental coordination. I am eager to learn about new areas outside of my expertise to develop professionally, so I'm looking forward to this collaboration."
2nd Answer Example
"I prefer to work in an environment that promotes teamwork and collegiality. If I were fortunate enough to join the team here, I would love to eventually take on a leadership role on a team. I've learned to delegate work effectively and help train new employees on our mission and their roles in my current project manager position. I can also thrive in a role where I take direction from others."
Teamwork
31. This role requires collaboration with Standard Bank partners in different countries and continents. Do you have any international work experience?
How to Answer
As an organization that operates in more than 20 countries in Africa and abroad, Standard Bank looks for team members who thrive in a global environment. While you may have direct experience working in different countries (which you should certainly point to in your answer), it's OK, too, to point to times that you've worked on projects that have required international collaboration with clients or colleagues through something as simple as a video call.
Answer Example
"Working in an international environment that brings together diverse perspectives and backgrounds is of central importance to me in my career. Many projects in my previous role at (XYZ) company called for collaboration with stakeholders across Africa, Europe, and Asia, which we did through weekly video calls to discuss our progress and current roadblocks we faced in the projects. I look forward to the opportunity to work in the diverse, international environment that Standard Bank offers. Does this role require international collaboration or travel?"
Technical
32. At Standard Bank we expect our team members to have a basic understanding of foundational risk management principles. How have you performed risk mitigation and risk avoidance in your previous roles?
How to Answer
The financial field is often posed with significant risks, and financial professionals must always factor potential risks into the equation of any project they work on. To get a better idea of how you will do this if hired at Standard Bank, your interviewer gives you a chance to talk about your knowledge of risk and how you have worked with risk mitigation and avoidance in your previous positions. If new to the financial services field, it is important to show that you know that common risks can be systematic, operational, legal, and credit-related.
1st Answer Example
"As you can see from my resume, my experiences come from the software and manufacturing industries where common risks were associated with systematic and operational faults. Similar to the finance industry, I also have experience in helping mitigate legal risk. In my current role, I mitigate legal risk by working with a team of legal experts to understand the laws and then develop a series of what-if questions to propose potential scenarios. Based on the what-if scenarios, we can implement specific requirements into the project to help minimize potential risk."
2nd Answer Example
"From an early point in my career as an analyst, I learned that a solid analysis process is a key to reducing any risk in a project. Two areas that apply the most are scope creep and impact analysis. To reduce scope creep and avoid any risks associated with it, I ensure that all stakeholders understand the scope of the project from the start and that I check in to validate the requirements as frequently as I can."
Technical
33. In a client-facing role with Standard Bank, clients will expect you to be well-versed in market changes. How do you keep yourself up to speed on industry changes?
How to Answer
In a rapidly changing field like finance, you are expected to keep up with industry changes at the snap of a finger. Demonstrate to your interviewer that you keep up with the industry through membership in industry-relevant groups or publications. You should have a reliable news outlet that you rely on for industry news, which you can mention to your interviewer.
If possible, give an example of a time where you made a decision or helped your team change the direction of a project due to a last-minute regulatory change. Overall, convey that you are on top of the industry and can speak intelligently on regulatory changes, especially if you will be in a client-facing role on Standard Bank's behalf.
1st Answer Example
"I have been a CFA member for over five years now, and I regularly read the quarterly CFA Digest publication, the CFA Magazine, and their news brief email that comes out daily. These are great resources that cover things ranging from daily news that impacts my work to very big-picture studies and findings. If hired for this role, I would continue to be an active CFA member and utilize their resources for my work. In addition, I begin each morning with Moneyweb and BusinessLIVE to stay up-to-date on the South African market and the business section of the Wall Street Journal to keep up with international markets. Are there additional publications that you think are important to follow in this role at Standard Bank?"
2nd Answer Example
"As a risk professional, I have been a member of the Global Association of Risk Professionals for many years. I have been certified by the Association for Financial Risk Management, and I try to attend their national conference every year to network and learn from other professionals. The FRM group has enabled me to keep on the forefront of changes in the financial management that impacts risk on an almost daily basis."
Technical
34. What do you see as the most pressing challenge within the banking industry currently?
How to Answer
As a banking and finserv professional, you must be on top of the latest changes in the industry. Demonstrate your industry knowledge by pointing to a current challenge you've observed in the banking industry, backed up by pertinent examples and your own relevant experiences with this challenge. It's crucial that you stay up to date with the industry-relevant resources you have available to you to ensure you can answer this question thoughtfully and confidently.
1st Answer Example
"I've found the integration of traditional banking models with rapidly changing technology to be one of the most pressing challenges we're currently facing in the industry. Brick-and-mortar is no longer the norm for many clients, especially those younger, when managing their finances and interacting with banking professionals. I've found this challenge to be an exciting opportunity to expand my digital offerings with clients and provide the best service possible even when I've never met a client face-to-face."
2nd Answer Example
"With the digitalization of banking offerings, I think ensuring security and preventing fraud is the most pressing challenge facing the industry. In my previous role, my team worked with an outdated legacy system that presented various security risks. I'm drawn to Standard Bank because of the emphasis you've placed on being fully digital while also fully human in your customer service model, and I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to a team that is on the cutting edge of technological advances and takes pressing security challenges seriously."