A career as a bank teller can be exciting. As a teller, you will meet many different people and learn a variety of new skills. If you want to work with money or in a higher position at a bank someday, working as a bank teller is a great way to start. The job isn’t for everyone, but if you’re committed, there’s a path to take.
Part 1: Preparing to Search for a Job
Step 1: Decide what type of bank you would like to work at
- Choose between a small, hometown bank, a national bank, or a regional bank.
- Realize that regional and national banks operate similarly in style, whereas hometown banks are more intimate.
Step 2: Ensure that you are qualified for the position
- Qualifications:
- Good credit and no criminal record.
- Several professional or personal references.
- Previous employment (to check how long you worked at your previous job).
- Basic computer skills, such as understanding how to use the Windows operating system.
- At least a year’s worth of experience providing customer service and handling and balancing cash. Sales experience is a major plus.
- A high school diploma is typically required.
- Skills:
- Enroll in free computer skills classes at public libraries if needed.
- Gain customer service experience, possibly by working as a cashier.
Step 3: Begin searching for bank jobs
- Check local papers and bank websites for teller positions.
- Look for jobs labeled either as “Teller” or “Teller 1” for entry-level positions.
Part 2: Landing an Interview
Step 1: Apply online or send your resume to the bank
- Application:
- Apply online if a form is available or send your resume to the bank.
- Be ready to complete an application with information such as addresses of the past seven or more years, education, employment, skills, awards, references, SSN, and driver’s license number.
- Be specific if asked why you want to work for that particular bank.
Step 2: Try to make personal connections
- Network if you can. Many people get jobs through referrals.
- Use social media to reach out for help and potential connections.
Step 3: Walk into the bank and request an application
- Dress professionally when asking for an application in person.
- Establish a rapport with the person you ask for an application from.
Step 4: Call to ask about openings
- Speak with HR and express your interest in sending or bringing your resume.
- Follow up with an email.
Step 5: Wait for an interview
- Understand that the hiring process can be slow, especially if HR works limited days.
- Apply to multiple jobs while waiting.
Part 3: Acing the Interview
Step 1: Dress to impress
- Wear professional attire suitable for a bank teller.
Step 2: Make eye contact and offer a steady handshake
- Maintain friendly eye contact and a firm, professional handshake.
- Show your personality while remaining professional.
Step 3: Prepare for questions about your customer service experience
- Expect questions about handling customers, cash discrepancies, and balancing money.
- Be prepared for sales-related questions and tasks, such as convincing the interviewer to buy a product.
- Demonstrate a customer-first attitude.
Step 4: Showcase qualities that make you a good candidate
- Highlight qualities like honesty, reliability, strong judgment, and multitasking.
- Frame your past experiences to showcase these characteristics.
Part 4: Following Up
Step 1: Send a thank you note after your interview
- Thank the interviewer and shake their hand when leaving the interview.
- Send a thank you note to show appreciation and stay top-of-mind.
Step 2: Wait to hear back
- If you get the job, congratulations! If not, keep trying and building experience.
Step 3: Call to check on the position if you don’t hear back
- If you don’t hear back in a few weeks, follow up with a call.
- Respect the timeframe given by the bank and inquire politely about their decision timeline.
By following these steps, you can increase your chances of landing a job as a bank teller and starting a promising career in banking.
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