31 State Street Interview Questions & Answers
Table of Contents
- 1. Adaptability Questions
- 2. Ask The Interviewer Questions
- 3. Career Goals Questions
- 4. Communication Questions
- 5. Competency Questions
- 6. Customer Service Questions
- 7. Direct Questions
- 8. Discovery Questions
- 9. Experience Questions
- 10. Leadership Questions
- 11. Problem Solving Questions
- 12. Problem SOlving Questions
- 13. Salary Questions
- 14. Technical Questions
Adaptability
1. How long will it take you to make a meaningful contribution to our team at State Street?
How to Answer
While hiring managers understand that you will need some time to get up to speed in your role, convey to your interviewer that you're ready to hit the ground running on day one. As a Fortune 500 Company and the second oldest bank in the United States, State Street has a high-profile reputation to maintain and wants to ensure that its employees will only improve the company and add to its bottom line. As such, hiring managers are looking for the best candidate to maintain a positive company reputation. With an abundance of qualified candidates looking to enter the financial services industry, hiring managers want employees who will be productive in their roles right away and won't need excessive training.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I plan to make an impact as soon as possible at State Street. I've already researched this position and have all the requisite skills outlined in the role's description. I have proficiency with other relevant skills that I think would be useful in developing the (XYZ) project at State Street. 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. If there are any additional actions that I haven't included in my plan, I will welcome your input so that I can be successful in this role."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
Adaptability
2. If hired to this role here at State Street, 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 State Street's hardworking team. Furthermore, your interviewer wants to ensure 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 an example of when you were confronted with a challenge at a new job and how you responded to this adversity.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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 making the leap 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 State Street. If given the opportunity to join your team, my initial focus would be to jump right into learning all I can about the wealth management team."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Understanding that my role here at State Street 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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
Ask The Interviewer
3. Do you have any questions about this job or working for State Street?
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 are showing 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 are showing 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 State Street, upcoming changes in the industry, or see if you need to clarify anything from your resume.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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 if there are 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?"
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Thank you for asking! What do you see as the biggest challenge State Street will be facing in the next 12 months?"
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"What can I expect my day-to-day work life to be like?
How will this role set me up to grow within the organization? What is the typical route that employees take when moving on from this role to others within the org?
Will State Street support my aspirations to write the CFA exams? Do they offer any programs to help me reach that designation?
What do you enjoy about being with State Street? What do you least enjoy about it?"
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
While these are all amazing questions, try to limit them to around three so you don't give the impression that you haven't done any research on the company yourself. The goal is to show the interviewer that you're interested and engaged but also knowledgeable about their organization already.
Career Goals
4. We are looking for the most motivated individuals to join the team here at State Street. Where would you like your career to take you in the next five to ten years?
How to Answer
This common interview question puts you in a tough spot where you should talk about your ultimate career goals while also balancing the present needs of State Street. 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.
Many careers at State Street emphasize career growth and upward mobility. For example, State Street's Early Career Program is geared explicitly at recent grads looking to develop their careers and find an area that's a great fit at State Street. You don't need to know exactly what you want to do but have a solid idea of your primary interests and the skills you are most looking to hone.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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 successful Financial Advisor today, I want to continue to grow my skills in advising clients on retirement and private wealth management, and it sounds like I'll have that opportunity here at State Street. As I continue to grow in my skills and demonstrate my value, I'm looking for a role in management one day where I can oversee the work of Junior Advisors and mentor them towards success."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"While I'm open to where my skills and passions will take me in my career, my primary interest lies in risk analysis and management. That's why I think the Early Career Program is a perfect fit that will allow me to dive into State Street's product offerings and clarify where I want to be in a few years within the risk management space. I know that this program allows for some great mentoring and networking opportunities, so I'm excited to learn firsthand about what it's like to be an analyst here and where a career with State Street could take me."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
Communication
5. Do you have experience preparing and delivering presentations?
How to Answer
Part of what you're expected to do at State Street may include planning, preparing, and delivering presentations to clients or other stakeholders. As most of us know, public speaking can be intimidating. It's natural to feel some nerves, but the interviewer wants to see that these nerves do not get in the way of effective communication.
If applicable, discuss any courses or training you have taken related to public speaking and presentations, 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.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"The bulk of my presentation experience comes from my time in university, where I prepared a variety of speeches and decks. I am a confident public speaker and presented to a group 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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
Communication
6. Discuss how you approach explaining complex ideas in simple terms.
How to Answer
At State Street, clients are at the center of all decisions that are made. 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 common language 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 interpersonal work on a team. Your ability to communicate your ideas clearly and impacts how well you work with others.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I strive for straightforward and concise communication with both clients and colleagues. As a financial advisor, I focused on listening to my clients and their most pressing financial needs and goals in my previous work. 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 who I work with and place great value on hearing their input."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I prefer to communicate ideas in the simplest of terms because I want either the client or my colleague to know well what I'm trying to say. I don't want to risk losing them in overly technical language, nor do I need to impress them with my vocabulary. 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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
Competency
7. Analytical skills are critical to success in this role at State Street. In which ways are you analytically-minded?
How to Answer
State Street looks for team members who can provide logical answers to clients' biggest questions. While certain positions will require more formal hard skills than others, solid logical reasoning skills are essential in any role at State Street.
There are many ways to show your analytical thinking. Perhaps you are great with research or investigating a problem. Maybe you take clear and logical steps in everything that you do. Or, you show a systematic and clear-cut approach to reaching your goals and completing tasks. Be prepared with examples to discuss how you are analytically minded and how this strength makes you an exceptional professional in the financial industry.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"As a financial advisor, 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 exceptionally well while also benefitting my clients greatly."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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 able 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 confident, data-driven financial decisions."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"I always take a careful approach to any task that is given to me. Whether it be building a plan to complete a project work-related or not, I like to set benchmarks and goals that I can frequently check in on to track my progress. I hate to waste time, so when it comes to being analytically minded, I would say I love using any resources I may have to help me build conclusions about the task at hand. I especially like building charts and tables to help me visualize data sets."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Great! The interviewer will appreciate the fact that you approach projects in an analytical fashion. Creating and working off plans, setting benchmarks and goals, and building charts/tables are all great ways to show you're analytical. You might also mention any processes that you've set up in the past to accomplish tasks and discuss how you weigh all the options before making a decision. Nice job!
Customer Service
8. Give an example of a time that you had to resolve a difficult situation with a client or customer. What were the keys to coming to a successful solution?
How to Answer
In a front-facing role with State Street, where you will be interacting with clients daily, your interviewer wants to be ensured that you have the skills to resolve client issues with ease, and they'll look to do so with this question. In your answer, let your interviewer know that you can take ownership of any situation by talking about a specific time where you did what was necessary to alleviate a complex problem with a client. Talk about the resources you used and your interpersonal skills that helped turn a potentially harmful situation into a successful one. Demonstrate to your interviewer your understanding of State Street's mission of putting clients' needs and goals first.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"Having worked in customer service for one of the area's largest auto dealerships for the last six years, handling difficult customers was a situation I had to learn to handle pretty quickly. A few weeks ago, I was covering our front desk on a Saturday afternoon when our sales staff was still open for business. I recognized the person approaching the door as a customer that had recently purchased a new vehicle. He stormed through the door, placed his keys on the counter in front of me, and said that he demanded a refund on his new purchase because the check engine light had already come on inside of the car. Already knowing his new vehicle was under a full warranty, I calmly let him know that his car was under warranty and that I'd have a member of our sales staff come out and take a quick look. I also let him know that our service department was not working that afternoon but, if needed, we could schedule him for a diagnostic test at his earliest convenience. We ended up giving him a loaner vehicle so his new car could be taken care of on Monday morning. I can tell you that he left happier than he arrived, and he thanked me for my help. I know my attitude was partially responsible for that. I understand that at State Street, putting clients first is of the utmost importance. As I've explained, maintaining excellent customer service in my work is central for me."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"A couple of years ago, I was asked to work with a very high profile client for his financial advising services when he came to our firm because my CEO trusted I could handle what he felt would be a difficult task. From my first meeting with the client, he demanded that we provide more returns than the previous firm he worked with, and he was rather rude to our front desk staff. I took the time to listen to his needs and speak to him more about what my firm could provide. I laid out my experience and track record for him to help him build his trust in me. I knew that I would need to take time to walk through my decision-making processes for his investments with him, and he appreciated that. As of today, we are still working strong together, and his wealth is growing."
Written by Nolan Henry on October 5th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"I would say the same situation as when a client needed a quick solution. Again, the keys to overcoming this type of situation were understanding the problem, escalating to someone who could help me solve it, identifying the best way to go about it as well as establishing a schedule on which we could adhere and provide the proper solution."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Consider talking about a specific example here instead of speaking vaguely. It will make your response much more powerful. You can still discuss how you identified and escalated the problem but perhaps include a mention of following up to make sure there was a resolution. Clearly indicate that you resolved the issue for the customer and how you went about doing this.
Customer Service
9. The clients of a financial firm like State Street can display an arrange of emotions when they work with our client-facing teams. How would you handle a situation where a client was very angry?
How to Answer
Whether due to a large amount of money lost on the market or a client feels they were ill-advised by an advisor, your job in a client-facing role will at some point or another deal with an irate client. For this answer, your interviewer will be looking to hear you do what is necessary to stay calm and focused on finding a resolution. If possible, use a specific example of a time you had to do exactly this and explain how critical communication was to make the situation right for the client.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"As you can see from my resume, I've spent the last three years in customer service relations for a large insurance company. As you can imagine, a large majority of my customer interactions were with upset customers. I've been called names that I can't repeat here in this interview, and my key to working through these situations was to remain calm and not take things personally. Like the financial world, the insurance business is a 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 Scotiabank, these same skills would be vital for me to find solutions or the right person to talk to if needed."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"First and foremost, an active listening approach is the first step to lowering the tension from an angry customer. A couple of months ago, we had a very angry customer come onsite to complain about a defective product that cut his hand pretty badly. The customer came onsite to complain even before receiving emergency care, which was apparent that he needed. First, I let him release his anger, and it was not a pretty sight. Then I calmly repeated back what he had said and then explained what our policy allowed me to do at that time. Looking back, my sincere approach and calm demeanor helped calm him down, and later that day, my manager had a formal complaint sent to the manufacturer, and we were assured that they'd be in contact with the customer."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
Customer Service
10. Our clients here at State Street expect top-tier service and products, and we will expect you to provide that in this role. Have you ever went the extra mile for a client when it wasn't expected? Why did you do so?
How to Answer
State Street looks to set themselves apart from their competition by delivering top-notch service, a solid understanding of the gold standards of customer service is paramount. If your experience in customer service is limited, spend some time researching the most important qualities of customer service within the financial services industry.
No matter what example you use, explain why you felt it was important to take that action and what tangible outcomes it produced. Remember: show, don't tell. Use a specific example if you have one.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"A couple of years ago when I was working customer service in retail, a customer was looking for what happened to be a discontinued item of clothing. It was intended for her sick mother. The easy route would have been simply looking it up, telling her it was discontinued, and having her be on her way. I took down the customer's contact information and let her know that I could contact our person who handled archived products. If we could track it down, I would be in touch. My colleague could track the item down from the supplier and have it coordinated to ship directly with a simple phone call. We put the customer in direct contact with the supplier, and she was ecstatic. Looking back on that situation, her story spoke to me, and I felt that it was the right thing to do."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"In my current role in hospitality, I often work with high-profile customers that come to our hotel. Last year, a touring manager for a musician contacted me regarding an upcoming stay for the musician. I proactively asked for their dining and entertainment preferences. With that list, I was able to work with our catering staff to ensure we had preferred items on the menus for the nights that he stayed and that we had a customized video game package in the musician's room for his extended stay. Before him leaving, his manager reached out to thank me for the great service."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"I've had clients that needed internet service at a specific site with very short notice. While typically we wouldn't be able to do much until a provider was able to mitigate the situation, in this particular instance, we had a piece of equipment on hand that I personally drove out to the customer. Long story short, I got there and the customer expressed they had found a short-term solution but I would like to believe that my effort left a lasting impression on the customer."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Nice! This is a great example of a time when you went above and beyond for a customer. Consider rephrasing your response like below:
"I consider it very important to make sure all clients feel well taken care of and appreciated. I do my best to provide them with quick and helpful service at all times. In one of my past roles, an instance arose when a customer needed internet service at a specific site with very short notice. In many cases, we weren't able to do much in this type of situation until a provider was able to respond and move forward. This time, however, I discovered that we had a piece of equipment on hand that I knew would remedy the problem. I took it upon myself to personally drive it to the customer. Although they had already found a short-term solution, they were very appreciative of the gesture and impressed by the high level of customer service."
Customer Service
11. At State Street, our clients are the lifeblood of our business, and we do everything in our power to make them happy. What does the term customer service mean to you in your work?
How to Answer
No matter what position you are interviewing for at State Street, your interviewer is looking to hear what customer service means to you in your work and how you apply that philosophy in your everyday work life. Your interviewer wants to hear that your experience and approach to working with customers will align with State Street's client-centric business model. Whether you discuss problem-solving or making people happy, this should be reflected in any examples you give.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"A career in the financial field suited my two passions: mathematics and problem-solving. And being able to see clients positively impacted by my passions is only added incentive. At the end of the day, if I see that my work helped a client grow their wealth and achieve their financial goals, I know that it was a job well done."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"As a people person by nature, I have an intuitive ability to do what is needed to give customers the best experience possible when I'm working with them. This means that I reflectively listen to their needs and concerns and do what is necessary to help them based on what I heard. In my interactions with customers, I am positive, pleasant, and nurturing by nature, and I've found that customers are receptive to my communication style with them. If hired for this role at State Street, you'll quickly find that dedicated customer service is one of the top qualities that I will bring to your team."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
Customer Service
12. If you were having an interaction with a client here at State Street, 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 State Street, you may be asked serious financial or market-related questions that you either don't know or aren't qualified to answer. You still need to resolve the matter in those situations, even if you need to dig around or outsource or clear possible strategies with your bosses. Make sure you give the client a timeline for an answer. Humility and a solutions-oriented approach are essential here: be clear that you will not attempt to answer a question that you are not qualified to answer, but leave them with confidence that you will work for a resolution.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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 approve. If I can't lean on my expertise or authority in these situations, I reach out to those who can. Being a facilitator is as much the job as being an expert, and I prefer to have as many options as I can have in this field."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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. I would tell them what the next step might be, 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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"Depending on how time-dependent the situation is, I would try to escalate to someone within my department who can help me reconcile with the client. I think running into these types of problems is unavoidable in just about any career, but if we aren't asking questions and utilizing the resources at hand then we will never be able to solve them on our own."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Nice! Don't forget to emphasize how resourceful you are. Consider mentioning that right at the start of your response and then going into how you would escalate the situation, consult with a colleague, and/or research the question using company materials or the internet. If you can also provide a specific example of a time when you handled this type of situation, that would further strengthen your answer. Good job!
Direct
13. How do you believe your coworkers would describe you?
How to Answer
It's a straightforward question. The interviewer wants to get a better sense of your self-awareness about how others perceive you. Give an honest answer that relates to the work that this role requires.
Here are a few keywords to get you started brainstorming:
- Encouraging
- Caring
- Knowledgeable
- Reliable
- Focused
- Honest
- Assertive
- Tenacious
- Motivated
- Ambitious
- Conscientious
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"My coworkers have told me that I'm a good listener and easy to collaborate with on projects. 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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"I think my co-workers would describe me as a team player, and someone who cares about having a positive impact on the people around me. I think they would say that I am very much a person that speaks when I have something important to say. On top of this, you might see that I tend to take an analytic approach to most things in life and always aspire to complete tasks efficiently and effectively."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
The interviewer will be happy to hear all of these nice descriptions about you. Can you connect them to the role at all to reinforce how your qualities and strengths will allow you to excel within the position?
Direct
14. What is your greatest weakness as a finance 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 what plan you've put into place to work on it. Just make sure the weakness isn't a core competency of the Scotiabank 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 critical for this question. Interviewers have heard it all and will see through phony attempts to present a trait as a weakness when it's not a weakness.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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 on the more introverted side 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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
Direct
15. What is your greatest strength as a finance 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.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"Without any formal experience, I can't say I bring a lot of technical skills directly related to finance; however, I can say that I am fairly skilled with MS Office, as well as using balance sheets and reports to summarize data in a concisely and coherently. I would like to believe I am a quick learner as well as very motivated to learn the necessary skills to be successful in this industry."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Nice! Make sure to start your response with a positive about yourself and to highlight your greatest strength as the question asks. See below for another way to respond here:
"I'd say that my greatest strength as a finance professional is my ability to summarize data concisely and coherently on reports and balance sheets and my expertise in using Microsoft Office, particularly Excel. I am adept at gathering, displaying, and interpreting data, which I am confident will help me excel in this position. I'm also a quick learner and very motivated to learn more about this industry and how to succeed in this role."
Direct
16. Tell me what you know about State Street.
How to Answer
Ensure that you've done your homework beforehand and can speak confidently about State 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 State Bank's website and secondary sources that provide helpful information on the company. In addition, if you're already connected to an employee of State Street, reach out before the interview to have a quick coffee chat about their role and experience with State Street. You don't need to be an expert, but you should be well-versed in State Street's products and services and what will be required of you in this role.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I understand that you're one of the largest managers of institutional investments in the world with over $3 trillion AUM. My professional background revolves around managing securities for institutional asset owners, which aligns well with the buy-side work that you do here. One of the aspects of State Street that I've been drawn to for quite some time is the emphasis you've placed on sustainability and ESG principles in your products and services over the years. As this is an interest of mine professionally, I've reviewed your most recent ESG report and was quite impressed by the findings."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
Direct
17. What is the most attractive thing in your eyes about this role with State Street?
How to Answer
For this question, your interviewer is looking to gain insight into what you know and like about State Street and how they will help you meet your career goals. In your answer, remain focused on aligning your values with the organization's values, and demonstrate that you've done your research on State Street and the job you are interviewing for.
Make sure you've spent time reading and reflecting on State Street's mission and organizational pillars. Think about what is most attractive about their mission or culture and how that aligns with your values and goals.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"Over the past few years, I've had an eye on pursuing a career with State Street because of its reputation for having a great company culture. In my current position as an analyst at (XYZ) company, we've partnered with State Street analysts for work on the (XYZ) project. My team and I greatly admire and enjoy working with the State Street analysts because they are motivated and easy to work with. I've had conversations with a few of them on their appreciation for your collaborative company culture and work-life balance, both of which are priorities for me in this next career step."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"As I enter the midway point of my career, my job search has been focused on finding an employer that I can spend the rest of my career with and someday retire from. Looking at the history, culture, and growth of State Street, this is a place that I'd love to be a part of as you continue to grow and prosper into the future."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"I see State Street as a global organization that positioned itself as a leader across many facets relating to the financial industry. Just as much as I see it as an organization, I see State Street as a community of growth. And what attracts me is the possibility of learning from the best and translating those skills to help myself grow and best serve the clients I will see throughout my career."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Great! Consider moving your last line about learning from the best and translating those skills into the growth and service of clients to the forefront of your response. And then go into the company being a global leader that you're very excited to join. Talk more about and explain your concept of the company being 'a community of growth.' Really let your passion for the company and the industry as a whole shine through.
Direct
18. This position at State Street has generated a lot of interest from applicants. What do you feel is the one quality that sets you apart from others we are speaking with about this position?
How to Answer
There will likely be many qualified candidates vying for a position at State Street. 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 characteristic 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 State street interview for this role is likely qualified enough. Instead, 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.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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 a deep 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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"From what I understand about this role in client services with State Street, 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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"I genuinely believe that I deserve this position not only because I feel I have the academic credentials to perform the job, but because I have a lot to offer as a person as well. I care deeply about forging lifelong relationships with the people around me, especially the ones that I work directly with. And I believe I bring a good personality and willingness to learn."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
This question presents a great opportunity to really sell yourself. Don't forget to directly respond with the one quality that differentiates you from other candidates. Is it forging meaningful relationships with clients and colleagues? Is it your passion for the financial industry? Is it your analytical nature? Be confident in your tone (i.e., avoid saying 'I feel I have...' Instead, say 'I have' or 'I am confident I am...') Figure out what your differentiating quality is and be prepared to support and sell it.
Direct
19. What are the top 3 skills you have acquired in your last role?
How to Answer
You have likely gained many valuable skills in your career, and your interviewer wants to hear about the skills that will be most relevant to a role at State Street. 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, then reflect on which are most relevant to this role and provide the best examples to share with your interviewer.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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 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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
Discovery
20. The day-to-day life at State Street can be hectic and stressful at times. If hired for this role, how would you keep yourself motivated when working with stressed colleagues and pushy clients?
How to Answer
Many roles at State Street 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. And depending on your role at State Street, you might need to work long hours and face stressful deadlines yourself. 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.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
1st 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 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 communicating the factors that are outside of my control. I imagine I would be drawing on these experiences frequently as a team member with State Street."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
Experience
21. Tell me about a time where 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 State Street. In your answer, focus on describing your attention to detail and 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 to show you can take an analytical approach to problem-solving.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
1st 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 various 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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
Leadership
22. Here at State Street, we are expecting someone with strong leadership skills to take this role. How would you describe your management style?
How to Answer
While State Street emphasizes a collaborative work culture, it's still important for candidates to demonstrate excellent leadership potential that will set them apart from the pack. Before your interview, reflect on your 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 State Street. Your answer can touch on how these traits fit into State Street's collaborative and supportive team culture.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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 State Street, you can be assured that I would bring this collaborative and team-focused leadership style to the table for each project."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I think that a leader of others must 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 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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
Leadership
23. Tell me about a time you had to deal with adversity while in a leadership position.
How to Answer
It's not easy serving in a leadership position, and State Street wants to know that you can handle the stress that comes with it. As you brainstorm leadership experiences that you can point to during your interview, include challenges that you faced along the way. These challenges might have to do with pushback you received from colleagues, having to deliver unpopular news, or something completely different. Above all, demonstrate tolerance for adversity and emphasize the strategies you've developed to push through challenging situations while serving as a leader.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"A while back, I managed a team of ten individuals within our client services department. I learned quickly that there was quite a bit of animosity on the team, particularly between two team members who did not get along. This made it quite difficult to make progress on projects and also made for a hostile team environment. While this was a tough team to lead, I handled this challenge by meeting more regularly with each team member. As a leader, I place a high value on open communication, so I directly asked team members about the root causes of the various conflicts. From there, we developed strategies that sought to fix these challenges. Further, I strategically created smaller teams within the overall team for particular projects to ensure that team members worked in a pleasant environment suited to their professional strengths. After a few months, the team was running much more smoothly and with far less conflict."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"During my time at _______, I was responsible for overseeing the living quarters of roughly 30 students. My role required me to ensure that the students were up and ready for morning meetings and accounted for at night. Occasionally I would meet with the students to ensure that everything was going well and guide them in the right direction if they ever had any questions or needed help. Basically, anything to make their life easier as a boarding student with a very demanding schedule. More often than not, I would have to deal with particular students who did not want to follow my instructions and would look for ways to avoid getting up early or being back on time, or even acting out of line within the dorm. As their peer, it was difficult for me to get their attention and get them to listen but I learned that if I could make an effort to get to know the troubled students on a more personal level and positively reinforce good behavior it might encourage them to be more subordinate."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Nice! This is a good example to use here as it shows your ability to deal with adversity within a leadership position. Is it possible to talk about one troubled student in particular (obviously without mentioning any names) and go into more detail about what they were doing and how you remedied this problem? Being more specific will further strengthen your answer. Great job!
Problem Solving
24. Give me an example of a time that 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 where you had to dig further to solve a problem. Prior to your interview, try to think of a time in the past where 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 it. Be as detailed you can as you explain how you sought to solve the problem. Your interviewer will be relying on these details to see how you will perform on the job with State Street.
Many positions at State Street 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.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"Back when I first joined my current organization, I was taking a role that had been vacant for many months, and I had to start with a backlog of work along with the 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 soon 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 of 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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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 an acceptable path of action to the client, and I took the time to get their questions answered quickly."
Written by Nolan Henry on October 5th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"In my most recent role at ROI Communications, I was dealing with a client that needed internet access on a construction site and was very impatient and difficult to deal with. We had discovered that for them to get access, a local provider would have needed to do a bit of construction to make the connection possible and it was going to take a week or two. Upon hearing this I knew the client was going to be furious. I am a big believer in utilizing the resources around me when I cannot directly provide a solution, so in this case, I managed to reach out to a provider that focuses on wireless connections and make amends with the client in the meantime while their permanent connection was built."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Wow! This was a great way to handle this situation. By reaching out to the wireless provider, you showed that you can be incredibly resourceful if needed. This example also emphasizes your ability to successfully handle a disgruntled customer. Excellent!
Problem Solving
25. 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 financial services. 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 OK with answering every little question you might have, know that most places 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 each piece of the puzzle.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I think that uncertainty keeps the job exciting, so I can assure you I'm comfortable not having every piece of information. Working 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 great, 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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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've become quite comfortable with the unknowns, and I make a point of discussing these variables with my clients. I stay connected and prepare for varying scenarios. Furthermore, I learned to accommodate adaptation. I am not afraid to change a course of action as the facts begin to change as well so long as the client trusts my read of the situation."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
User-Submitted Answer
"In my first year of playing baseball at the University of Maine, my head coach decided to take a job at another school. At the time I was there on a big scholarship. The new coach that had taken over was someone I had no existing relationship with and did not really give me the time of day to build one. I was unsure of how he would handle the current team situation. In particular, I was unsure of whether he was going to revoke my scholarship. During this time I tried my best to perform well, keep my grades up and try to stay on his radar. Unfortunately, it did not work out for me the following season, but I learned that it is important to always keep my head up and work hard and persevere."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Wow! This definitely sounds like a stressful situation. Your response shows that you handled it the best way possible: by performing well, keeping your grades up, and trying to show him your value. You might also mention that you didn't allow this to discourage you and that you rose to the challenge and tried your hardest to succeed despite a lot of it being outside of your control. Great answer!
Problem SOlving
26. How do you react to setbacks in the market?
How to Answer
Working in finance can be a bumpy ride as the market ebbs and flows, and financial regulations shift. For this reason, the interviewer at State Street 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.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"As a commission-driven financial advisor, I am competitive with myself, 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 missteps could have been made. I aim to learn from the situation so that it doesn't hold me back again."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I allow myself a moment to be frustrated when a setback occurs, but never in front of a client or colleague. I am very good at keeping my cool and maintaining positive energy. I've lost clients before, from what I perceived as closed business, and it sometimes hurts, especially financially. However, I never let a situation like that hold me back. Setbacks fuel me to work even harder the second time around."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
Problem Solving
27. 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 is looking to hear how you use solid interpersonal and relationship-building skills to diffuse a difficult situation with a coworker. No matter what situation you talk about, make sure to stay positive as you describe the scenario and keep the emphasis on the steps you took, as well as the outcome. State Street is known for its diverse workforce and positive team environment, and your interviewer wants to know that you'll be able to effectively manage conflict as a team member.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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 the new advisor's 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 quell his criticisms of the new junior 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. It's important for me both professionally and personally to maintain open communication by being friendly yet assertive when working with my colleagues. I know that State Street is known for its positive company culture and team environment, and I think the style I've developed to effectively work with team members would align well with State Street's values."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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 stress in her personal life, and it 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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
Salary
28. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
Ah, the dreaded salary expectations question. Interviewees often feel uncomfortable discussing compensation, worried that they will give a number that's too high or too low.
Answering this question tactfully requires a delicate balance of knowing your professional worthwhile also understanding what State Street 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 do your research beforehand using various online resources to ensure you have a good idea of the salary range.
If you're unsure of an acceptable 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.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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?"
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
Technical
29. In this role with State Street, you will be expected to be the expert on changes in financial regulations that impact our business. How do you keep yourself up to speed on these changes currently?
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 State Street's behalf.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I have been a CFA member for over five years now, and I look forward to the quarterly CFA Digest publication, the CFA Magazine, and their news brief email that comes out daily. I find these are great resources that cover things ranging from daily news that impacts work to very big-picture studies and findings as published in the digest. 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 the business section of the Wall Street Journal, Barron's, and Forbes. Are there additional publications that you think are important to follow in this role at State Street?"
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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, and the group helps me live and breathe financial risk every day."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
Technical
30. What software programs do you use in your current work and how adaptable would you say that you are in learning and using new programs?
How to Answer
State Street is known for being at the forefront of changes in tech that allow them to continuously improve as a company. One of their fundamental values is 'always finding better ways.' Your interviewer is looking to hear that you have a solid grasp of various tools that make you more efficient in your work. If the position mentions specific programs needed for the role, ensure you're prepared to discuss the experience you have with these programs and how they help you do your job well. If the position description does not mention any specific software, demonstrate to your interviewer that you already have a solid repertoire of tools and are open to learning new skills.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I currently use a program called Zendesk that is an interactive customer support tool. When we started to use this tool a little over a year ago, I was very quick to learn and utilize all of the great functions of the program and have since become a trainer for new staff that joins our team. I'm also fluent in the entire Microsoft suite of products and would consider myself an expert on Outlook, Excel, and Word."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I consider myself very agile when it comes to using and appreciating the vast amount of software that is available to financial advisors today. In my current role, I solely use RightCapital as a financial advising tool with my clients. I love its ability to help in the budgeting and comprehensive planning processes with my clients. I'm also very familiar with the MoneyGuidePro tool and have used it successfully in the past. If hired for this role, you can consider me an open book when it comes to learning and effectively utilizing any programs needed."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
Technical
31. At State Street, we expect our team members to take risk management principles into account. 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 State Street, your interviewer is giving you a chance to talk about your knowledge of risk and how you have worked with risk mitigation and risk 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.
Risk management is an important principle for State Street, as their business framework emphasizes a strong corporate governance structure and sustainable practices that help mitigate risk down the line. As such, demonstrate to your interviewer your understanding of the connection between risk management principles that you might take as a State Street team member and the company's mission and values.
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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 know 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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021
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 associate 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."
Written by Rachel Hills on October 5th, 2021