What are your greatest weaknesses?

My greatest weakness as a relationship banker is wanting to stay involved with previous customers or customers who I need to hand off to colleagues or partners. It is important to me that my customers receive the best service possible, and I have struggled to let go in the past. However, I have made several improvements to my process that help me to feel more comfortable during handoffs. I ensure that I communicate thoroughly with my colleagues and educate my customers on exactly what to expect during the next step in the process. Setting clear expectations helps everyone to be on the same page and reduces the need to continually follow up on my part. I feel confident I can leverage similar practices here at XYZ Bank.

The key to preparing for this question is to identify a legitimate weakness/improvement opportunity that will resonate as authentic without knocking you out of contention for the role. Here's how:- Think about the areas in which you want or need to grow in over the next few years and develop a list of three to five weaknesses to choose from. Consider asking current or former colleagues for assistance if needed. - Compare your list to the job description and eliminate any items that are must-have requirements for the new role. - Select no more than two weaknesses and think about a strategy you can use to improve upon those areas. If possible, start working on the steps you devise prior to your interview.

Using the list you prepared, walk your interviewer through one or two of your weaknesses. Keep this part of your answer brief and only provide enough detail to establish context.Next, describe steps you are already taking to improve in the areas you describe. It is critical that you demonstrate initiative and commitment to self-improvement. Finally, instill confidence in your interviewer that your weakness will not be an issue if you are hired, and if they have any tips for improving on any of the areas you describe (if applicable).

What are your greatest strengths?

My greatest strengths as a relationship banker are my ability to think creatively and provide excellent customer service. In my current role, I am known for using my knowledge of all of the available products offered at my bank and our partner institutions to maximize value on behalf of my customers. I always stay up-to-date on the latest offerings and look for ways to exceed their expectations. I am accountable for my work and my customers learn quickly that they can trust me to take great care of their needs. As a result, I have the highest customer referral rate at my bank in my current position. I feel confident I will be able to achieve the same level of success here at XYZ Bank if offered the position.

First, take some time to think about what you're great at professionally. If you are struggling to come up with a list, ask a current co-worker, manager, or former colleague. Keep in mind that your strengths may represent both technical and soft skills.Next, compile a short list of your best strengths and compare them to the skills required for success as a relationship banker (customer service, sales, financial knowledge, experience, math skills, etc.). Check to see how your list stacks up to the job description for the exact role you're interviewing for. While there are general skills that most financial institutions value, the role you want may require something unique. Finally, narrow your list down to two or three of your strengths that align with the role and position. Note any stories or examples you would want to touch on to support the answer you plan to provide.

It is best to stick to two to three strengths when answering this question. Describe your strengths at a high-level and then provide a few supporting details for your response. End your answer by convincing your interviewer that your strengths are in alignment with the role you're interviewing for.

How would your current or former employer describe you?

My current employer would describe me as detail-oriented, positive, and a team player. I work hard to make sure that my work is financially accurate and I diligently follow all of our company procedures. I maintain a positive and welcoming attitude with my clients, and I am always happy to jump in to assist my coworkers when needed.

The most direct way to prepare for this question is to ask your current or former employer how they would describe you. Having this conversation can help you prepare and also set the stage for them to offer you a positive reference should the hiring company elect to reach out to them. Write down what they say and think about how you could effectively paraphrase their thoughts in an interview. In the event you cannot speak with them openly about your new opportunity, think about positive feedback they have offered in the past. Consider remarks they may have made in team meetings, one-on-one meetings, and annual reviews.Struggling to narrow down your thoughts? Cross-reference your list of descriptive words with the job description and select attributes that align with the requirements for the open role.

The key to a successful answer is providing a positive and authentic description of yourself as an employee. Some interviewers have advanced intuition and can easily sense when candidates do not believe their own answers, so it is best to stick to the truth even if you have to put a positive spin on a negative situation. Be brief, and limit your response to two or three descriptive words or phrases. Then, provide a few supporting details to justify your response.

How do you plan your day?

I am currently a personal banker, so I plan my day around my customers. I arrive before the bank opens and I check emails and check my schedule for appointments. I then ready myself for whatever clients need assistance first thing when the bank opens. They are usually trying to handle their banking quickly and get to their jobs, so I make sure I am available to them and ready to help with whatever they may need. I also keep my schedule open during normal lunch hours because there is sometimes a rush of people who come in during their breaks. I go to meetings on occasion, and I use my remaining time to answer phone messages and follow up with clients on important matters as needed.

Preparing for this question involves reflecting on how you currently plan for your days and comparing your method to what you feel would be required for the position you are targeting. For example, if you currently work in a banking phone support role and take calls on-demand, you might plan to check emails, plan to be available during high-volume times, and plan to make follow-up calls at certain times in your day. The schedule for that role would be different than a relationship baker working in a local branch. The goal for your prep efforts is to demonstrate effective time management within your current role and understand how that compares to the role you want.

Walk your interviewer through the method you use to manage your time in whatever role you currently have. If you're a student or currently unemployed, be authentic and demonstrate your ability to effectively use your time even though you aren't working for a specific company. The goal is to show that you know how to prioritize and get the most out of each day. If your current schedule is significantly different than what you expect to do as a relationship banker, be sure to mention that you have researched the role thoroughly and you are confident your time management skills will allow you to effectively navigate your days at the financial institution you're interviewing with.

"I am currently a student. when I get up in the morning I check my schedule and appointments. I also write a to-do list based on priority daily. usually, I start with some relaxation and then apply for a job. I am preparing myself for the interview. cooking is also in my plan. I go to university and help with some clubs and some events."

How do you stay motivated?

I stay motivated at work by setting goals for myself, tracking my performance against them, and then rewarding myself when I achieve each goal. As a relationship banker, it is also motivating to me to think about the effect I am able to have on the lives of others when I assist them in managing their finances and meeting their goals. I really enjoy my work and hope to continue to grow in this role as a relationship banker with XYZ Bank.

The best answers for questions like these are 100% authentic. If you are stuck, check out helpful videos or articles on how to stay motivated at work like this one from Grammarly and then think of how you have specifically used any of the techniques described. Don't overthink this one, and go with what works for you.

Walk your interviewer through a few of the ways you motivate yourself at work. Keep your response brief and provide a few details to convince your interviewer that you have the drive necessary for success.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I would like to work my way up to branch manager in five years. I have several years of experience as a relationship banker already, and I feel the opportunity at your bank will afford me the opportunity to advance my skills and gain experience in alignment with my goals.

If you haven't already, take the time to outline a short-term and long-term career path for yourself. You will likely be asked this question at some point during the interview process and the time you invest could pay off more than once. Research the career path for relationship bankers and determine a path that resonates with your professional goals. Be sure to analyze the average time spent in each role and which types of financial institutions offer the path you are most interested in.

Describe where you see yourself professionally in five years to your interviewer. It is important to describe a path that makes sense for you specifically given your education level, years of experience, and the role you are currently seeking. If your path diverges from the offerings of the bank you're interviewing with, be sure to mention that you are open to other possibilities and you are excited to further explore the career paths of the hiring bank.

"I like to develop and improve my skills in finance and customer service. I see myself hopefully working as a finance advisor in a reputed company where I can help our customers and bank achieve their financial goals. I am also interested in sharing and returning my knowledge and experience to other employees by mentoring and leading."

What are your career goals?

I currently work as a personal relationship banker and I am seeking an opportunity to expand my skills and experience into working with business and commercial clients. I genuinely enjoy working with individuals and families at the branch of the bank I work at now, but I feel this is an important step in growing my career and using my skills on a different scale. I know there are several options after that step, but I am aiming for taking on larger clients and working my way up to mid-size to large enterprises. I am excited to interview here today because your bank has ample opportunities to leverage my current skills and grow for years to come.

Preparation for this question involves two simple steps:- Step 1: define a short-term career goal in alignment with the role that you're interviewing for. For many, this is as easy as stating that you want to move into the sector of relationship banking associated with the new role, or that you would like to work with clients in a new industry. For others, the job they are interviewing for isn't actually on their list of career goals. Perhaps the job opportunity represents a horizontal move due to a recent layoff. In that case, select a broader goal such as 'seeking a job that allows me to leverage my expertise in XYZ skill set'.- Step 2: identify a longer-term goal that is relevant to the job you're interviewing for and reasonable for someone at your current level. Depending on your age and experience level, this goal probably represents where you'd like to be in 5 years.

Keep your answer brief and walk your interviewer through an immediate goal and at least one longer-term goal (next 2-5 years). Provide a few details to explain why you've selected the goals within your response and if applicable, express your excitement to explore your goals at the hiring company.

How are your communication skills?

I feel I have strong communication skills. I am able to communicate effectively in both written and verbal formats. I know how to properly engage with clients and match my style of communication based on their needs. Finally, I am highly collaborative and communicate well with my colleagues and partners as well. I feel confident that my communication skills will be a great fit for the role here at XYZ Bank!

Preparation for this question involves thinking about how your communication skills rank in a few areas. Consider your ability to communicate in the following formats. - In written format - Verbally - With customers - With your coworkers, managers, or service partners

Start by giving your communication skills a general rating such as advanced, or excellent. Next, provide a few supporting details to justify your response. It is best to align the supporting details you provide with any specific communication requirements mentioned in the job description. Close your answer by indicating your confidence in your abilities to meet the communication requirements for the role.

How do you assess a client's needs?

The first thing I do when assessing a client's needs is thank them for being a customer, or for their interest in our bank. It helps to set things off on a positive note. Next, I ask them what they feel they need, listen attentively to their response, and demonstrate my interest by nodding and taking notes. When they finish, I typically ask a series of questions to make sure I have all of the details I need to assist them. For example, if a client walks in and wants to open a new checking account, I ask about how much they would like to deposit, what the general purpose of the account will be, etcetera. I then walk them through their options and answer any questions they have regarding the rules or fee structures involved in any of the services they are interested in. Finally, I ask if they would like to hear about any other related services the bank offers that may also be of service to them.

There are three main steps to analyzing the needs of a client. Preparation for this question involves understanding how to apply them within the relationship banking role you're applying for. Here are the steps: - Listen to the high-level needs/goals - Ask questions to refine your client's requirements - Walk through additional related services and assess if your client is interested

Describe the main steps you would take to assess the needs of a new client to your interviewer. Be sure to walk through them in an order that makes sense. Also, it can be helpful to use a scenario/example when answering this question.

What types of retail banking accounts are you familiar with?

I am familiar with a variety of checking accounts including standard checking, student checking, and joint checking. Many banks have accounts that have benefits such as zero fees, and other related perks based on the average balance of the account holder. For savings, there are standard savings accounts, certificates of deposit, and high-yield accounts depending on the bank and whether or not the account is managed solely online. There are also investment and retirement accounts such as trading accounts, IRAs, and Roth IRAs that help individuals further manage their finances, save for retirement, and build wealth. There are credit accounts and the options vary by bank. Most credit cards now come with a reward structure that might offer points, travel rewards, or cash back. Finally, there are lending accounts that offer loans for homes, vehicles, etc. From a business perspective, there are small business checking, savings, credit, and loan options as well. There are also small business investing options. I am not familiar with all of the options available to large corporations, but I would love the opportunity to learn in the future. In the meantime, I feel confident I have the account knowledge necessary for success as a personal relationship banker here at XYZ Bank.

If you have experience as a relationship banker simply think about the types of accounts you are familiar with and research the bank you're applying with to see if they offer additional services. Familiarize yourself with any that you do not have experience working with. If you are new to banking, take the time to properly research the personal and business banking product offerings. This will help you understand the difference between the various account types and how they are utilized.

Walk your interviewer through the various types of checking, savings, credit, and retirement accounts you are familiar with. Be sure to indicate any differences you are aware of that apply to the type of bank you're referencing (i.e. online vs. branch banking)

How would you define the role of a relationship banker?

The role of the relationship banker is to provide services to banking clients. They assist in identifying new clients, helping them open accounts, and assisting in the credit application process. They help facilitate solutions to complex banking issues on behalf of their clients. They are knowledgeable about all of the financial solutions offered by their bank, answer product and system-related questions for their clients, and serve as a liaison to other banking specialists for services such as mortgages. They stay up to date on policies and regulations and apply them accordingly. Finally, they participate in a number of administrative tasks.

The role of a relationship banker can vary depending on the financial institution and the types of clients served. To prepare for this question, it is helpful to know the general duties of a relationship banker and then compare them to the duties of the particular role you're targeting. Need help? This sample job description from ZipRecruiter provides a general explanation of the role.

Walk your interviewer through the basic duties and responsibilities of a relationship banker including customer acquisition and retention, customer service, opening accounts, serving as a liaison to other banking services, conflict resolution, and administrative tasks. If applicable, mention any duties specific to the role you're applying for (i.e. personal relationship banker vs. commercial)

How would you resolve a conflict with a customer/angry customer?

As a relationship banker, I have a lot of experience resolving conflicts with customers. I start by making sure I fully understand the nature of the issue. I actively listen and show empathy for their concerns. Next, I discuss the available options and work with them to identify a plan of action that meets their needs. I then act promptly based on our agreement, ensure the conflict is resolved, and then follow up as needed.I worked with a frustrated customer recently. They were in the middle of securing a home loan and they were struggling to download all of the statements and documents requested by their lender. They normally work directly with me, so I was happy to assist when they called annoyed that the system wasn't working as expected. I expressed understanding and then walked them through the process to gather what they needed step-by-step. They thanked me for my prompt response and then I followed up a week later to check in and see if there was anything else they needed to support them during their home purchase.

While this question asks how you would resolve a conflict with an angry customer, preparing for this question goes beyond imagining how you would handle the situation. The best way to prepare involves thinking of a time when you demonstrated excellence in conflict resolution. Be sure to consider: - The background - The specific conflict - The steps you took to resolve the conflict - The outcome of your actions

Hypothetical questions present an opportunity to not only describe how you would handle a situation, but describe how you have handled a situation. Demonstrating a behavior is usually a more impactful way of answering this style of question if you have experience with the scenario you are asked to speak to. Many relationship bankers have extensive experience in customer service. If that applies to you, begin by stating the basics of how conflicts with customers should be resolved and then briefly walk your interviewer through a time that you demonstrated the steps/skills outlined in your response. In the event you have not had the opportunity to resolve a conflict with an angry customer, stick to a hypothetical response and walk your interviewer through the steps you would take. This should include: seeking to understand the conflict, demonstrating empathy for the customer's concerns, discussing potential solutions, taking prompt action, and following up as necessary.

How are your customer service skills?

I feel my customer service skills are excellent. I worked in several customer service roles in high school and college including working as a bank teller. I also have two years experience working as a relationship banker and I am frequently called in to assist with complicated scenarios or during times of conflict. I love working with people and I know I will excel in this area if selected for the position here at XYZ Bank.

Determine how you would rate your customer service skills and think of a few details to support your rating. If you are struggling to decide where you land, ask a coworker, client, or manager for their thoughts.

Start by giving your customer service skills a general rating such as advanced, or excellent. Next, provide a few supporting details to justify your response. Close your answer by indicating your confidence in your abilities to meet the customer service requirements for the role.

What skills are essential for this position?

Relationship bankers need to have a solid understanding of finance and the banking industry. They also need to be knowledgeable of the specific products offered by the institution they work for. They need to have advanced customer service skills and need to enjoy working with people. Likewise, they need advanced communication skills. Finally, relationship bankers need to have an understanding of general sales techniques and knowledge of how to attract and retain customers.

The level of prep needed for this question depends on a few factors including your level of experience in the role, your knowledge about the duties of a relationship banker, and the duties and requirements of the specific position you are applying for. If you are new to relationship banking, take the time to read a few articles or watch videos that walk you through the skills, education requirements, and daily tasks of a relationship banker. If you have experience in the role, spend time walking through the job description for the target position and ensure your understanding of the skills required are in alignment with what the bank you're interviewing with needs.

Walk your interviewer through the basic skills required for success as a relationship banker and any special skills that are specific to the bank you're interviewing with or the role you're targeting. Keep your description high-level and brief to allow more time in your interview for questions that highlight what sets you apart from other candidates.

What do you know about our company?

I enjoyed researching your company prior to this interview. I knew the basics going in, but I learned a lot by reviewing the history of the company, the services offered to your personal, business, and commercial clients, and the values of your employees. For example, as a personal relationship banker, I think it is amazing that your bank serves over X# in the US. I also appreciated that your bank has a strong track record of year-over-year double-digit revenue gains. I was most impressed with the self-service credit monitoring services offered here. Many of my clients want to know exactly what will happen if they open a new line of credit, or make financial moves that might affect their score. The bank I currently work for does not offer monitoring services to our customers and I think it would be fantastic to work for a bank in which I can point them to tools that will help them make more informed decisions. I was also excited to learn more about XYZ Bank's commitment to maintaining a diverse culture and supporting wellness for its employees. I think each of these efforts helps to support the talented professionals here and develops an environment I would love to be a part of if hired.

Conceptually, preparation for this question is simple. It requires that you do your research. Here's a list of suggested topics to get you started:Basic Facts - mission, products, main clients, services offered History - origin, mergers, acquisitions Leadership Values Competitors Career Specifics - career paths, methodologies followed, technologies usedSources to consider: Company website Careers page DE&I commitment pages Social media pages Company comparison sites such as Comparably.com

This question presents an opportunity to impress your interviewer and help you stand out in comparison to your competitors. It is important that you take full advantage and prove to your interviewer that you took the time to learn about their company. Start by letting your interviewer know you invested time in researching the company. The easiest way to do that is to walk them briefly through the resources you reviewed. Next, show them you went beyond the basics by describing what you learned or found to be interesting. Be sure to include at least one fact that isn't readily available on the company's homepage. Also, it can be helpful to include a fact that is relevant to the relationship banker role you're interviewing for.

Why should we hire you?

You should hire me because I am an experienced relationship banker with the ability to acquire and retain customers on behalf of your bank. I started as a personal relationship banker and quickly moved up to managing relationships with businesses with average annual revenues of $5M. With over 5 years of experience working in an enterprise banking setting, I am able to successfully identify, pursue, and acquire new clients. I currently have the highest client acquisition rate in my department and I feel confident I can add value to XYZ bank given my experience and strong business network.

Preparing for the direct question of 'Why should we hire you?' can be intimidating for some. Fortunately, there's an easy-to-follow system that will help you prepare. Here are the steps:- Determine how your skills align with the job description and note any areas in which you have in-depth experience or you are an expert in - Make a list of anything relevant that may help set you apart including industry accolades, exceptional achievements, additional training, a second language, or how involved you are in the community - Review your list with a colleague or friend and incorporate any helpful feedback

It is best to respond to this question using an 'elevator pitch' approach. Start with a brief description of how your skills and experience are in alignment with the job you're interviewing for. Next, provide one or two examples of how you will be able to go above and beyond what is required for the role. Finally, close by letting your interviewer know that you are excited about the opportunity and ready to work hard for their company.

Why are you the best candidate for us?

I feel I am the best candidate because I meet all of the requirements and exceed them in key areas such as years of experience in customer service and financial product knowledge. I have an excellent customer retention track record and I have experience in personal and commercial banking. You mentioned that you're looking for candidates with leadership, mentoring, and training skills that can help grow the team and train others in the future. I have experience in those areas as well. I am excited about the opportunity to work with the team at XYZ Bank and my experience combined with my passion for working with my clients makes me the best candidate for this position.

Preparing for this question requires you to think about two main topics. First, you'll want to think about the requirements of the role and how they align with your best skills. Second, you'll want to think about any special skills or expertise that are not represented in the job description but might set you apart from other candidates.Preparing to answer this question also involves researching the company and listening attentively to anyone you speak with during the interview process. They often provide important information such as their 'greatest needs' or cultural requirements that only come up in conversation. Taking notes on these topics and preparing to align your response with this information is an excellent strategy for success.

Start by convincing your interviewer that your skills and experience are a solid fit for the role. Let them know that you are confident that you will be able to add value immediately and then walk them through any areas in which you excel or go well beyond what they require. Next, be sure to mention how you can add value or how you are a cultural fit based on anything specific needs you learned about during your interview. Finally, close your response by letting your interviewer know that you are excited about the role and ready to add value.

Why did you choose to apply for this position?

I applied for the senior relationship banker position here at XYZ Bank for three main reasons. First, your bank is a leading financial institution with a stellar reputation. Second, the senior relationship baker role here is a match for my industry-specific skills and experience. Finally, the senior relationship banker role is in alignment with my immediate career goal of scaling my experience to the next level and XYZ Bank offers career path options that align with my long-term goals. I am very excited about the opportunity to interview with you today, and I look forward to the possibility of joining the team here.

Preparing a solid answer to this question is a must before any interview. You want your interviewer to be fully confident that you want the job and that you are motivated to be successful in the role. To prep, think about the following:- How the position aligns with your career goals - What you appreciate about the company - How the position aligns with your skills - Any special benefits the position provides - Recommendations for the company or the position made by a former colleague or friend

Tell your interviewer exactly why you want this position and chose to apply for it specifically. Provide a few details to support your response and close by indicating you are excited about the opportunity to work for the bank you're interviewing with.

Do you have previous experience in this field?

While I have never worked directly in a bank, I have 4 years of experience working in customer service. I worked in retail as a cashier and then moved up to assistant manager while I earned my degree in finance. I love numbers and I am passionate about serving people in my community. I feel confident that the relationship banker role here at XYZ Bank is a great fit for my skills and goals.

Preparing for this question depends on your level of experience in banking and/or finance. If you have previous experience, it is important to have the details of your professional history fresh in mind. Providing numbers that do not match your resume can cause confusion during an interview. If you are lacking experience, think about any related experience in customer service roles or classes you may have taken in college or elsewhere.

If you have previous experience, let your interviewer know how many years you have worked in banking and the details of the roles you have held. If you lack experience, mention anything relevant to the relationship banker role such as a love of numbers, a degree in finance, etcetera and express your excitement to begin working in banking as a relationship banker.

Tell me about your relevant experience.

I recently graduated with a degree in finance which required me to take classes in finance, accounting, management, risk management, and marketing. I also worked as a bank teller during my senior year in college. I feel my education combined with my experience has prepared me for the financial knowledge, banking, and customer service skills required for success in the relationship manager role.

When preparing for this question, it can be helpful to make a list for reference during your interview. It is important to include time spent in banking or related financial roles, but you will also want to include time spent in roles that rely on important relationship banking skills such as retail or customer service-focused roles. For each item in your list, write down the relevant skills, what you did, and your time spent in each. Also, be sure the list you develop coincides with your resume as discrepancies between the two may cause your interviewer to become confused. Graduating students - Don't forget to consider your relevant coursework. Accounting, finance, marketing, risk, and management are worth mentioning if your professional experience is limited.

Walk your interviewer through the positions you've held and the time spent in each. Be sure to provide a high-level description of the responsibilities and/or skills required on the job as roles across companies can vary widely.

Describe your cash handling experience.

I began handling cash in high school. I worked in a business office and accepted various forms of customer payments. I also handled deposits frequently. In college, I worked as the lead cashier for an auto dealership service department. I handled customer payments and I also managed a petty cash budget. I always paid great attention to detail and my employers trusted me with large sums of money. I know I would show the same level of integrity and accuracy here at XYZ bank if hired.

Preparation for this question depends on your relative level of experience. If you have banking experience, take a moment to think about the types of cash exchanges you've handled. If you do not have banking experience, think about other roles you may have worked in that required cash exchanges including retail, sales, office management, etc.

Briefly describe your cash handling experience in and outside of banking. Then indicate that you are trustworthy and will diligently handle all monetary transactions with integrity. If you do not have experience, walk your interviewer through an example from your past that will convince them you are trustworthy.

What net worth-size clientele are you most comfortable working with?

I began my banking career as a teller and I worked with clients across many net worth levels. I currently provide online and phone support to clients with net worth ranging anywhere from $100K - $1M. I am most comfortable working at that level, but I feel confident I could be successful working at higher ranges in the future.

Many larger banks will provide this information for you, but if not, take the time to review the client profiles of some of your most recent clients and determine the range of their net worth. In addition to reviewing your past performance, review the net worth range of the clients you will be assigned within the job description for the position you are interviewing for.

Describe the range of clients you have experience working with and indicate any levels you are an expert in, if applicable. Convince your interviewer you are ready to handle larger-scale client accounts if the job you're targeting requires it.

What do you expect to make in salary?

I am looking to make between $40k and $45k annually depending on the associated benefits of the role. Can you tell me what the salary range for the position is?

Proper preparation for this question is critical before any interview. If your answer is too low, you leave money off the table and potentially damage your future earning potential. If your answer is too high, your interviewer may elect to exclude you from the interview process going forward. If you know what you feel you're worth and you're comfortable with a number, your only preparation step may be to ask around or review job descriptions from competitors to ensure your requirements are in line with the current state of the industry. If you're new to relationship banking or moving into a new role within relationship banking, you need to do your research. Here are a few helpful sources to try:- Websites that provide a pay range based on your location and role - Job descriptions for similar roles within states that are required to disclose salary information such as Colorado and New York (be sure to adjust the number for cost of living) - Search the Internet for the salary at the bank you're interviewing with and other banks in your area - Ask the recruiter you are working with what the salary range is for the role (only if they haven't asked you your requirements)

Clearly state your salary requirements. It can be helpful to offer a range and state that you're open to negotiation depending on the total benefits package associated with the role.

Describe how you would handle a difficult customer on the phone.

There are several basic steps to assisting a difficult client on the phone. First, it is important to remain calm and remember not to take their feedback personally. Next, I actively listen to their complaint or concerns and paraphrase what I hear to ensure I understand the situation properly. I show empathy and apologize genuinely if a mistake was made. I then work with the client to develop an action plan to address any remaining needs they may have. I take appropriate action and follow up accordingly. I adjust the specific approach depending on the nature of the difficulty. I worked with a difficult customer just yesterday. She was upset because she was in the process of securing a home loan with our bank and felt the loan officer wasn't responding to inquiries quickly enough. She was fearful she would lose the home she was purchasing given the delays. I let her know I understood why that would be upsetting and I would contact her loan officer directly to see if there was a specific reason for the delay and if there was anything I could do to assist. I reached out and the loan officer walked me through the reason for the delay and followed up immediately with my client to resolve the issue. I then checked in with my client later in the afternoon to make sure everything was resolved. She thanked me for my assistance and for always taking great care of her family's banking needs.

There are two key steps to preparing for a hypothetical question in an interview. First, think about the ideal way to handle the situation described by your interviewer. Second, think about a time in which you demonstrated the actions you describe. You may not have time in your interview to walk through your example, but it is helpful to have one on hand to prove you have the skills and experience necessary for success in the role.

Walk your interviewer through the steps involved in dealing with a difficult customer on the phone. At a minimum, you should include staying calm, actively listening to their concerns, showing empathy, apologizing if a mistake was made, discussing their options, taking appropriate action, and following up as needed. Additionally, let them know you would adjust your process depending on the nature of the difficulty (angry, impatient, confused, etcetera). If time allows, discuss a recent example of when you demonstrated the steps described within your response.

Describe an opportunity to attract new clients to our bank.

I mostly work with small business owners in my current role. I was asked last year to develop a strategy to increase our client base in my area. I researched successful methods and decided to reach out to our local small business development center director. I asked if she would be willing to allow me to speak during one of their upcoming seminars. I asked her about the most frequently asked banking and finance questions that small business owners ask and then put together a presentation to address their concerns and highlight our services. The approach was very successful. I landed 14 new clients within six months and also referred several more to branches closer to their place of business. I feel I would be successful in assisting XYZ Bank in attracting new clients. Can you tell me about your targets in the specific area I would be assigned to if hired for the open position?

If you're an experienced relationship banker, the best way to prepare for a question like this is to think about a time when you successfully attracted new clients to your bank. In this case, it is best to go beyond simplistic strategies such as 'providing excellent customer service that leads to referrals' and focus on specific activities targeted at acquiring new clients. If you're new to relationship banking, research this topic prior to your interview. Most relationship banking roles include attracting new clients within the job requirements. This applies even if the role does not require direct relationship banking experience. Take the time to read helpful articles or watch videos that can give you ideas of how to be successful in this aspect of the role.

Walk your interviewer through a strategy for attracting new clients that applies to your specific role. For example, if you are a personal banker, it is best to discuss a personal banking customer attraction strategy. Also, be sure to discuss a strategy that aligns with the level of the role you are targeting. Finally, note your success with the strategy you describe within your response or tell a brief story if you have personally used the method you describe in your answer.

Relationship Banker Interview Questions

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1. What are your greatest weaknesses?
2. What are your greatest strengths?
3. How would your current or former employer describe you?
4. How do you plan your day?
5. How do you stay motivated?
6. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
7. What are your career goals?
8. How are your communication skills?
9. How do you assess a client's needs?
10. What types of retail banking accounts are you familiar with?
11. How would you define the role of a relationship banker?
12. How would you resolve a conflict with a customer/angry customer?
13. How are your customer service skills?
14. What skills are essential for this position?
15. What do you know about our company?
16. Why should we hire you?
17. Why are you the best candidate for us?
18. Why did you choose to apply for this position?
19. Do you have previous experience in this field?
20. Tell me about your relevant experience.
21. Describe your cash handling experience.
22. What net worth-size clientele are you most comfortable working with?
23. What do you expect to make in salary?
24. Describe how you would handle a difficult customer on the phone.
25. Describe an opportunity to attract new clients to our bank.

Relationship Banker Interview Questions

1. What are your greatest weaknesses?

2. What are your greatest strengths?

3. How would your current or former employer describe you?

4. How do you plan your day?

5. How do you stay motivated?

6. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

7. What are your career goals?

8. How are your communication skills?

9. How do you assess a client's needs?

10. What types of retail banking accounts are you familiar with?

11. How would you define the role of a relationship banker?

12. How would you resolve a conflict with a customer/angry customer?

13. How are your customer service skills?

14. What skills are essential for this position?

15. What do you know about our company?

16. Why should we hire you?

17. Why are you the best candidate for us?

18. Why did you choose to apply for this position?

19. Do you have previous experience in this field?

20. Tell me about your relevant experience.

21. Describe your cash handling experience.

22. What net worth-size clientele are you most comfortable working with?

23. What do you expect to make in salary?

24. Describe how you would handle a difficult customer on the phone.

25. Describe an opportunity to attract new clients to our bank.