Why a Career in Banking (2024)

Find Your Future in Banking

Whatever your talents, interests and educational background, there is a career in banking for you.Ready to work for a thriving industry with a wide range of job roles and career paths? Explore a career in banking. Banking offers career opportunities beyond finance and retail banking—from technology to communications, community development and more. Find your next career move today.

Benefits of a Banking Career

Banking is a profession that offers a huge variety of opportunities, as well as the possibility of rapid career progression, all with good pay and benefits. For those willing to accept the challenge, the rewards can be great.

  • Competitive salaries and excellent benefits, including retirement options and healthcare
  • Wide range of job roles—not just in finance!
  • Opportunities for all career stages from entry level, transitioning veterans and service members, and skilled professionals
  • Career advancement and development while on the job
  • Good work-life balance and stable hours
  • Ability to give back to the community

A Diverse and Rewarding Industry

While you may be most familiar with the tellers and customer service representatives at your own financial institution, there are many other employees who work in key areas of a bank.

Types of Banking Jobs

  • Accounting — record keeping, bookkeeping, and financial analysis and management
  • Commercial Bankingbusiness banking services like loans and other credit accounts for customers like schools, churches and other organizations
  • Compliance — provides strategic direction, ensures bank abides by industry laws and regulations
  • Consumer Banking — retail branch services for individual customers, like checking accounts, mortgages and other loans and credit
  • Human Resources — manages employee placement, salaries, benefits and training
  • Information Systems and Cybersecurity — ensures availability of information, maintains computer systems and software, and protects data
  • Marketing and Data Analytics — promotes the bank’s products and services, coordinates advertising and analyzes customer and market behavior to make strategic decisions
  • Operations and Business Management — handles the bank’s internal operations, sets policies and provides oversight
  • Public Relations and Communications — manages media relations, stakeholder relationships, reputation management, social media and speaking engagements
  • Technology and Product Management — as e-commerce and online banking technology continue to expand, tech-savvy individuals will always be in demand.
  • Trust and Investment Banking, Wealth Management — manages money or property for others, and serves as a fiduciary and trusted advisor, strong relationship management skills preferred.

Career Paths in Banking

A career in banking is open to everyone, regardless of race, gender, national origin, age or physical capabilities. Banks hire and train people who are interested in learning and working. Find online training from the American Bankers Association to help you prepare for your next big role.

What Skills Do Employers Look For?

  • Technical skills and education
  • Basic computer and software skills
  • Database management and entry
  • At least a high school diploma or GED for some roles
  • Many roles require a university degree
  • People skills
  • Interpersonal communications
  • Customer service/relationship management
  • Leadership

Meet Some of Today's Bankers

Silvia Alvarez
SVP and Director of Corporate Communications
First Horizon National Corporation
Memphis, TN

Ashley Nagle Eknaian
Chief Digital Strategist and Head of Eastern Labs
Eastern Bank
Boston, MA

Ida Liu
Head of North America
Citi Private Bank
New York, NY

Tyler Stevenson
Commercial and Agribusiness Lender
FNBO
Sandwich, IL

Tabatha Thurman
Community Manager, Vault 405
Citizens Bank of Edmond
Memphis, TN

Tashawn Ward
Customer Solutions Associate II
Chelsea Groton Bank
Groton, CT

Find online training from the American Bankers Association to help you prepare for your next big role.

Why a Career in Banking (2024)

FAQs

Why did you decide to pursue a career in banking? ›

Many people pursue a career in banking because of the perks these roles can offer. Common perks include high salaries, good benefits and excellent working conditions. Even if these are your main motivation for working in banking, focus most of your answer on personal goals or interests related to banking.

Why do you want to work for a bank answers? ›

Tell me about yourself and why you want to work for this bank? SUGGESTED ANSWER: “I am a professional, hard-working, loyal and customer-focused employee who can be relied upon to act as a positive role model for your bank.

Why are you a good fit for investment banking? ›

To make sure you're a good fit for investment banking, here is a list of traits that are considered important in the industry: Willingness to work extremely long hours (80+ per week) High attention to detail. Ability to take direction well.

Why are you interested in a career in financial services? ›

Example Answer 1

I want to work in finance because I enjoy the challenging nature of the industry and how fast-paced it is. I thrive under pressure. I enjoy problem-solving and analyzing data, but also realize that finance is not just about the numbers, it is about the people too.

What are the advantages of working in a bank? ›

Benefits Of Pursuing Banking Careers
  • Job security.
  • Competitive salary.
  • Opportunities for promotion.
  • Career development opportunities.
  • Excellent work-life balance.
  • Range of job roles to choose from.
  • Additional perks and benefits like medical insurance, sick leave and maternity leaves.
Feb 24, 2023

What makes us different from other banks? ›

We may be in the same business, but there's something that makes us different from other banks: our people. We are people-people. We're here to make your life (and your banking) easier, whether you prefer a stress-free digital experience or one with a more human touch. That's why we're the early 'til late people.

What should I say in a bank interview? ›

So, always be positive and introduce yourself starting with your name, qualification and all the other required information that is important for an interviewer to know. Just complete it within 2 minutes so that it should not be extended as a boring conversation. Question 2: Why do you want to join the banking sector?

How do you introduce yourself in a bank interview? ›

You can begin with “(Greetings) I'm “your name”. Don't add unnecessary information like the meaning of your name, who suggested the name to your parents and anything related to it. Just the name in one line is enough to start the answer to the introduction question.

What motivates you to work? ›

Additionally, external factors such as recognition, praise, and rewards can serve as extrinsic motivators. The prospect of career advancement, learning new skills, and the desire to continuously improve also play a significant role in motivating individuals to excel in their jobs.

Why would I be a good fit for this job sample answer? ›

In particular, my ability to work to tight deadlines and manage my time effectively make me a good fit for the role. For example, in my current job I have to manage my own workload, taking briefs from colleagues in multiple departments and creating a priority order that keeps everyone satisfied.

Why are you passionate about investment banking? ›

You're interested in corporate finance. You like a fast-paced environment. You've always done well in finance/accounting classes. You want to work with smart and motivated people.

Why should we hire you? ›

“I should be hired for this role because of my relevant skills, experience, and passion for the industry. I've researched the company and can add value to its growth. My positive attitude, work ethics, and long-term goals align with the job requirements, making me a committed and valuable asset to the company.”

What motivates you the most interview question? ›

To prepare for this question, think about what drives you at work and what motivates you to do your best. Some common motivators include challenging work that allows you to learn and grow, feeling appreciated by your colleagues, or making a difference in the lives of others.

What do you say in Tell me about yourself? ›

Your answer to the "tell me about yourself" question should describe your current situation, your past job experience, the reason you're a good fit for the role, and how you align with the company values. Tell the interviewer about your current position and a recent big accomplishment or positive feedback you received.

Why do you want to work for Wells Fargo? ›

Professional Tone:- I want to work at Wells Fargo because it is a highly respected and established financial institution with a long history of providing excellent financial services. I am eager to learn from the experienced and knowledgeable professionals in the industry and contribute to the organization's success.

What are 3 benefits of banks? ›

Opening a bank account can be one of the most important steps you take toward reaching your financial goals. Why? Because putting your money in an FDIC-insured bank account can offer you financial safety, easy access to your funds, savings from check-cashing fees, and overall financial peace of mind.

What skills do you need to work at a bank? ›

Bank tellers should have the following skills:
  • Cash handling and mathematics.
  • Customer service.
  • Computer knowledge.
  • Organization.
  • Problem-solving.
  • Written and verbal communication.
  • Processing transactions.
  • Attention to detail.
Dec 9, 2022

What is the importance of bank employee? ›

In a bank, the banker oversees every aspect of operations. Answer. Financial advising is the primary responsibility of a banker, particularly in the areas of investments, loans, and securities. Customers benefit from their expertise and assistance, and the business benefits as well.

What is so special about banks? ›

Although banks do many things, their primary role is to take in funds—called deposits—from those with money, pool them, and lend them to those who need funds. Banks are intermediaries between depositors (who lend money to the bank) and borrowers (to whom the bank lends money).

How to prepare for a bank interview? ›

Log in
  1. Preparing for an Interview.
  2. How should you prepare for an interview? Here are six tips you can use. ...
  3. Review your resume thoroughly. Most of the questions you get will probably revolve around your resume. ...
  4. Know your state. ...
  5. Practice, practice, and practice. ...
  6. On the day of the interview.
  7. Dress. ...
  8. Social etiquette.

What makes a bank unique? ›

They manage a network of systems than help people pay for things. And the liabilities they issue are essential to allowing that system to operate. Banks are “special” because they manage the payment system through which most economic payments are made.

What is your greatest strength bank interview? ›

Example: "My greatest strength is my well-developed communication skills. I'm good at listening actively and interpreting the needs of every client. My communication skills also help me relay accurate information to clients and my colleagues.

What is a weakness in a bank interview? ›

Give a BS answer like “I work too much” or “I'm too much of a perfectionist.” Give a legitimate weakness, like saying that you sometimes lose focus when working on extended projects, or that you have trouble delegating work to others, and then show how you've been working to improve yourself.

What can you offer bank interview questions? ›

Topics such as types of banking policies, financial assets, tax regime, money supply, Indian economic conditions, stock market, and banking-related current affairs are always on the list of banking interview questions.

Why should we hire you in bank interview? ›

Example: “I feel that a career in the financial industry would be the most beneficial use of my knowledge and skills in accounting and problem-solving. I have always been fascinated by the financial world, am ambitious and hard-working and can bring great value to your company.”

How would you describe yourself in a bank job? ›

You might say something like this: “I'm the best candidate for this position as I have dual degrees in economics and statistics. I'm highly analytical and am able to apply my mathematical background to the current market. I also have a minor in sociology which further connects me to the industry and clients.

What is your weakness and how are you improving it? ›

Answer “what is your greatest weakness” by choosing a skill that is not essential to the job you're applying to and by stressing exactly how you're practically addressing your weakness. Some skills that you can use as weaknesses include impatience, multitasking, self-criticism, and procrastination.

What inspires you to apply for this position? ›

'I see the role as a way of developing my career in a forward-thinking/well-established company/industry as…' 'I feel I will succeed in the role because I have experience in/softs skills that demonstrate/ I've taken this course…' 'I believe my skills are well-suited to this job because…”

What attracted you to this position? ›

Focus on the company

History - a popular angle when answering this question is to highlight your interest in the company due to its reputation, history or innovation within the industry. This shows you are involved in the company's growth, understand its current position and want to be part of that journey.

What can you bring to the company? ›

Think about:
  • your enthusiasm for the profession and the employer and your desire to make your mark.
  • your personal qualities, such as your drive and willingness to learn.
  • the skills the employer seeks and how you have demonstrated them in the past – your answer should show why you would be competent in the job.

What makes you the best person for this position? ›

Emphasize your uniqueness: Describe the skills and experiences that could make you stand out from the crowd of applicants and would "add value" to the company or team. Focus on the employer's needs: Answering this question is your chance to show the interviewer how you can add value to the company.

What makes you stand out from other candidates? ›

These can be professional skills, areas of expertise, personal qualities, or any relevant experience. Also, consider any impressive accomplishments from your past or career goals that speak to your commitment to the field. Think of ways to out-do the other candidates.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? ›

Tips for Answering 'Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years?'
  • Show how your professional goals and the job you're applying for align.
  • Focus on the skills you want to learn and get better at.
  • Don't get too specific with job titles or time frames.
  • Never say “I want your job,” “I don't know” or “Not here!”

Why am I interested in private banking? ›

A private bank offers a much greater range of services related to investing and personal finance. It caters to high-net-worth individuals. In fact, you have to deposit a substantial chunk of change to get a private bank account. The minimum is about $250,000, and many require much higher deposits.

How to impress an investment banking interview? ›

7 Tips To Acing Your Investment Banking Interview
  1. Show That You'll Be Easy To Work With. ...
  2. Know Your Stuff. ...
  3. Be Respectful & Reserved. ...
  4. Bring Your Elevator Pitch. ...
  5. Show You Are Eager To Learn. ...
  6. Lay Some Groundwork Beforehand. ...
  7. Get Your Financial Statements Right.

What do you consider your strength? ›

To assess your strengths, think about skills that you really possess and that you can prove that you possess with specific examples and achievements. Then, pick the strengths that have helped you the most in your career so far or that can come in handy for the role you're applying for currently.

What are my 3 biggest motivators? ›

But it turns out that each one of us is primarily triggered by one of three motivators: achievement, affiliation, or power. This is part of what was called Motivation Theory, developed by David McClelland back in 1961.

What are your 3 main motivations at work? ›

What motivates you to do a good job? – more motivation examples
  • Stability or job security.
  • Working to deadlines.
  • Leadership.
  • A sense of achievement or accomplishment.
  • Helping others in my job.
  • Growing my professional network.
  • Learning and development.
  • A great work culture.
Feb 19, 2022

How do you handle stress and pressure? ›

Taking steps to manage stress
  1. Track your stressors. Keep a journal for a week or two to identify which situations create the most stress and how you respond to them. ...
  2. Develop healthy responses. ...
  3. Establish boundaries. ...
  4. Take time to recharge. ...
  5. Learn how to relax. ...
  6. Talk to your supervisor. ...
  7. Get some support.
Jul 1, 2014

How do I sell myself in an interview? ›

When you're talking about yourself and your experience, keep the following six points in mind.
  1. Be the Solution. ...
  2. Be Specific. ...
  3. Prepare Sound Bites. ...
  4. Prepare to Talk About Your Resume. ...
  5. Be Aware of Nonverbal Communication. ...
  6. Be Positive.

How do you introduce yourself? ›

If you're wondering how to start an introduction about yourself, the best thing to do is keep it simple. Greet your conversation partner or audience, state your name, and mention why you're there, if relevant.

What questions are asked in banking interview? ›

Top 21 Banking Interview Questions and Answers are:
  • Question 1: Brief me about yourself? ...
  • Question 2: Why do you want to join the banking sector? ...
  • Question 3: What are the types of accounts in a bank? ...
  • Question 4: What are the necessary documents a person requires to open an account in a bank?
Dec 9, 2022

Where do you see yourself in 5 years investment banking? ›

Q: Where do you see yourself professionally in five years? Five years is a long way down the road, but I know that finance will always have a grip on me. I could see myself in investment banking for the long-term, but that would have to depend on my performance and my family situation.

How can I impress in bank interview? ›

Follow these tips when responding to questions:
  1. Be passionate. Have a positive attitude and be enthusiastic when talking about yourself and your career. ...
  2. Sell yourself. ...
  3. Tell stories. ...
  4. Ask questions. ...
  5. Ask for the job.
Jun 9, 2023

What are 10 most common interview questions and answers? ›

10 most common interview questions and answers
  • Tell me about yourself.
  • What attracted you to our company?
  • Tell me about your strengths.
  • What are your weaknesses?
  • Where do you see yourself in five years?
  • Tell me about a time where you encountered a business challenge?

What are the key strengths of a banker? ›

Example: "To be successful as a personal banker, you need to be sales-oriented with strong customer service skills and the ability to efficiently solve problems for people. In this type of work environment, you also need to make decisions quickly under challenging circ*mstances.

What qualities do banks look for in employees? ›

My Interview Practice.com provides sample questions you might hear from a recruiter, so you can better prepare for an interview.
  • Customer Service Savvy. ...
  • Solid Math Skills. ...
  • Attention to Detail. ...
  • Quick On the Draw. ...
  • The Ability to Multi-Task. ...
  • Discretion Is Important.

What do you feel are the most important qualities for a banker position? ›

“A banker needs to have good judgment, service orientation and the ability to cope well under stressful circ*mstances. Organizational skills, time management and a strong work ethic are also essential for this job.”

What is basic banking knowledge? ›

Basics of Banking – Meaning & Overview

A bank is known as a financial institution responsible for accepting deposits from the public and creates a demand deposit while simultaneously providing loans to its borrowers. Banks can perform these lending activities either directly or through capital markets.

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