5 Bank Teller Interview Questions You're Likely to be Asked

When interviewing for a bank teller position, you want to do everything you can to show the interviewer you are accountable, honest and able to be trusted with large sums of money. While you should always be prepared for common job interview questions, there are teller-specific questions that you’ll want to make sure you have practiced before hand.

Why did you choose our bank?

This question says more about you than the bank itself. The interviewer knows that you probably applied to, and perhaps interviewed with, various institutions. He or she is curious about what you think makes them stand apart and why you would be a good fit. Banks tend to have very similar company cultures so be sure incorporate something that would differentiate them from competitors.

"I have been a client of your bank for five years. I believe that gives me an advantage because I know what other clients of your bank are looking for in a teller. I have seen how you all treat your clients and think I would fit in seamlessly here. It is clear that you all are customer driven and have a high standard of professionalism. I appreciate how team-oriented the environment is at your institution. Also, seeing that you all have been in business since 1872 it is apparent that you have maintained a strong sense of tradition. " 

What do you know about our bank?

This question is slightly similar to the first, but in most interviews you will be asked both. You should do some research before your interview so that when this question arises you have a few facts to rattle off. Look into the bank's products, mission, core values, etc. and tailor your responses around that information.

"You all are the most popular bank in the United States, in terms of number of clients. Innovation is a huge focus, which is apparent with the way you integrate technology and banking. You all specialize in client satisfaction and personable tellers. I hope to become one of those tellers. Lastly, I am aware that one of your top sellers is your wealth management program."

How would you convince a customer to become a client of this bank?

A good teller essentially needs to be a good salesperson as well. The bank will want to know that you can sell their products. Use your previous experience to describe a time where you had to sell something or persuade someone.

"Through sparking up a conversation with a client, you can get a feel for their wants and needs. I would recommend a product that best fits their lifestyle. For example, at my previous place of employment I had a 19 year old college student come in. She just got her first job and was looking to open an account. Just based on that information I knew we should keep things simple, not have a required minimum balance, and have little to no additional charges. Most likely she wanted to have the option to save, but not be restricted by it. I suggested opening a student banking account. She could have the option of putting her money in her savings or checking account, but transfer money as often as she would like for no cost whatsoever. Showing the client that you are listening and have their best interests in mind will initiate building up trust between the client and the bank."

A customer has come in and states we wrongly charged her a fee. However, she has overdrawn her account. How would you handle the situation?

It is to be expected that clients will come to you with problems regarding their business with the bank. The interviewer wants to know you will remain calm and patient, but still handle the situation thoroughly.

"I would let the customer voice her complaints and explain the situation from her point of view. Then, I would inform her of the bank's overdraft policy and let her know why she was charged. I would continue by recommending she download the bank's text alert feature so that she will be notified when her account reaches a certain balance. Incorporating bank products and services into problem resolution can be very successful. But it all comes down to partnering up with my client to figure out what works best and how we can prevent any issues in the future." 

What if you saw a fellow employee take $100 from our institution? What if it was just $10?

Although this may seem like the answer is obvious, the interviewer want to ensure that you are honest and trustworthy in an environment where you are handling something as sensitive as money.

"Whether the amount is $10 or $100, stealing is stealing. I would abide by company policy and notify our superior. Our clients come here with a certain level of trust in us that we will protect their money to the best of our ability. If I turned a blind eye to such behavior, I would be doing my clients a disservice and might as well be guilty myself."