Table of Contents
Who Are Bankers What Do They Do?
Guidelines for Writing a Banking
Resume
Tips for Writing a Good Banking
Resume
Banking
Resume Templates and Examples
Banking Cover Letter Example
FAQs
Key Takeaways
Choosing a career in banking in 2024 is an excellent choice! Recent research from Forbes reveals that finance and banking jobs globally take the lead in terms of salary, surpassing information tech
nology and healthcare, which come in second and third, respectively.
Creating a well-written banking
resume is one way to break into this industry. As one of the country's eco
nomic pillars, major banks have clear, transparent, and fair hiring standards. In fact, entry-level employees
with non-financial backgrounds can apply for certain positions.
In return, those who are accepted receive several benefits, ranging from job security to competitive salaries to career advancement opportunities.
This time, Cake
Resume provides banking
resume examples and templates, as well as tips and important information about the types of jobs in banking that you need to k
now. So be sure to read this article to the end!Who Are Bankers and What Do They Do?A banker is a general term for professionals who
work in the banking industry. Their scope of
work vary widely depending on their specific role and the type of banking they are involved in. This could include managing large accounts, facilitating loans for businesses, conducting financial analysis, trading securities, or providing general banking services.
Bankers can deal
with a diverse range of clients, from individuals to large corporations, depending on their specific role
within the bank.
Bankers often have specialized roles
within their institutions, focusing on areas like loans, investments, wealth management, or commercial banking. If you are studying banking or want to be a banker
working in specific function, here are some options for you to consider:Loan processorMortgage ConsultantInvestment representativeBank tellerCredit analystInvestment bankerRelationship managerFinancial AdvisorFinancial analystAsset managerUnderwriterInternal auditorInvestment banking analystLoan OfficerWhat About a Personal Banker? What's the Difference Between Them and a Banker?A personal banker specifically focuses on providing banking services to individual clients. They typically
work in retail banking and are dedicated to assisting clients
with their personal financial needs.Personal bankers help clients
with opening and managing bank accounts, savings plans, loans, mortgages, and investment products. They provide personalized financial advice and solutions based on the client's financial goals and needs.Their primary clientele consists of individuals and sometimes small businesses. They build and maintain relationships
with these clients to ensure their banking needs are met.Learn how to write a personal banker
resume with Cake!
The Difference Between A Banker Vs. A Banker TellerBank tellers are the frontline employees in a bank branch who handle routine transactions and interact directly
with customers.Their primary responsibilities include processing deposits and
withdrawals, cashing checks, accepting loan payments, and handling other basic banking transactions. They may also assist
with account inquiries, provide information on bank products and services, and help customers
with basic account issues.Bank tellers primarily interact
with individual customers and sometimes small business clients who visit the bank branch for everyday banking needs.Bank tellers are key to providing excellent customer service, as they are often the first point of contact for customers. They need to be friendly, efficient, and accurate in handling transactions and addressing customer questions or concerns.The interaction is typically more transactional and less focused on providing in-depth financial advice compared to personal bankers.Learn how to write a bank teller
resume with Cake!
Guidelines for Writing a Banker
Resume
To write an effective banking
resume, it is essential to understand the specific function of each section. In total, there are seven sections that you need to be familiar
with, and Cake
Resume provides examples to facilitate comprehension.
1. Personal Information
Hiring managers need to get to k
now you initially, which is why the personal information section is placed at the top. However, it is important to remember that
not all information is worth including on a
resume.
You should do these:Your nameActive email addressPhone numberYour cityLinkedIn accountYou should
not do these:Avoid sharing your full address unless it is required after being officially hiredExercise caution when sharing sensitive information such as social security or ID numbersSocial media accounts are generally unnecessary to include. Given the nature of
working in banking, it is crucial to exercise caution when creating content online. Some banks may even have policies prohibiting employees from capturing videos or photos while in the office or wearing uniforms
2. Banker
Resume Summary
A
resume summary serves as a concise statement that encapsulates your identity,
work experience, accomplishments, and the specific position you are applying for. Its purpose is to capture the attention of hiring managers.
However, for recent graduates, the
resume summary takes on a different structure. Instead of focusing on
work experience, it emphasizes the technical and
non-technical skills that you possess, highlighting their relevance to the desired position.
Outlined below are examples of
resume summaries for entry-level, mid-level, and senior-level candidates:
Banker
Resume Summary #1 - FreshGradA highly motivated and enthusiastic finance graduate from Gadjah Mada University, achieving a 3.7 GPA. Possesses strong skills in customer service, Excel, and financial accounting. Seeking an opportunity as a junior bank teller
with Telus.
Banker
Resume Summary #2 - Mid-level
Experienced bank teller
with a proven track record of 3 years in customer transactions, assisting
with daily audits and guiding customers to loan officers for new bank offerings. K
nown for maintaining exceptional accuracy in vault balance, reaching up to 100%. Seeking to leverage extensive k
nowledge of consumer banking for ABC Bank.
Banker
Resume Summary #3 - Senior-levelSeasoned banker
with 8 years of
experience, demonstrating leadership in enhancing customer satisfaction and driving branch revenue growth by 55% through effective product sales. Seeking to implement consumer banking strategies, facilitate seamless deposits and
withdrawals, and contribute to k
nowledge transfer at Telus.
3. Career Objective
A career objective is a concise one-to-two-sentence statement that outlines the goals a candidate aims to achieve. This statement serves to demonstrate ambition to hiring managers.
Examples of career objectives:
Seeking an opportunity for an entry-level position to initiate my career as a Banker
within a dynamic and professional environment.Seeking to leverage my extensive k
nowledge of customer deposits,
withdrawals, and payments in a new role
within a supportive organization.Seeking to
work for a diverse and inclusive bank, where I can contribute my skills and expertise while embracing and celebrating diversity.
4.
Work Experience
Now we come to the most crucial part of a banking
resume: the
work experience section. This section
not only describes your responsibilities at previous companies but also highlights your accomplishments and contributions.
To ensure accuracy and effectiveness, consider the following tips when writing your
work experience section:
Use bullet points to maintain concise and focused sentences. Remember that hiring managers typically spend only a few seconds reviewing each
resume.Utilize action verbs to emphasize your hard
work and credibility in your previous roles. Here are some examples of action verbs: Boosted, Increased, Analyzed, Executed, Developed, Facilitated, Examined, Established, Approved, Clarified.To expedite the hiring manager’s assessment of your suitability as a candidate, describe your accomplishments in measurable terms, such as percentages.Include essential information such as the company name, location, duration of employment, and your official position.
Here are some examples of how to write
work experience with measurable results:
Banker at TelusMalaysiaJan 2019 - Present
Processed $50K worth of remittances per day for domestic and international transactions.Opened 80 new accounts using an efficient process to meet customer needs.Supervised and trained junior bankers to ensure compliance
with company standards.Banker at ABC BankIndonesiaJan 2017 - Dec 2018Processed financial transactions, including deposits,
withdrawals, transfers, and check cashing.Collaborated closely
with the sales team to identify customer needs and promote current offers.Assisted customers in accessing their safe deposits
5. Banking Skills
Good performance is underpinned by a combination of technical (hard skills) and
non-technical (soft skills) competencies. These skills form an integral part of your value proposition to the organization.
Banks generally have specific criteria for the skills they require. What are these criteria?
Hard skills:
Financial analysisAnalytical skillsProblem-solving skillsMathematical skillsProficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Microsoft Teams)Risk assessmentFinancial AccountingProject management
Soft skills:
Attention to detailTime management skillsInterpersonal skillsCommunication skillsStress managementEmpathyCreativity
6. Education History
Under what circumstances should you include your education on your banking
resume? Here are comprehensive explanations:
If you are a recent graduate or an entry-level employee
without any
work experience, your educational background becomes crucial for hiring managers to assess your suitability for the company.Banking is a diverse industry that consistently seeks highly capable candidates. Therefore, if you hold a Master’s or Ph.D. degree, it is advisable to include it on your
resume to showcase your advanced level of education.If your GPA is below 3, it is generally recommended to omit it from your banking
resume.
Bachelor of Science in Eco
nomicGadjah Mada University, IndonesiaFeb 2012 - Feb 2019
High School DiplomaStella Duce Senior High SchoolJakarta, IndonesiaJan 2007 - Jan 2010
Bachelor of Science in Financial ManagementUniversity of Indonesia, IndonesiaExpected to graduate in April 2024Relevant Course
work:
ABA Bank Teller Certificate - American Bankers AssociationTeller Training - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA)
7. Other Information
Languages: Fluency in English is the most common requirement for
working in the banking industry. However, having proficiency in other foreign languages, such as French, Chinese, or Japanese, can also be advantageous, considering that bank customers can come from various backgrounds.Certifications: Obtaining a certificate demonstrates that your skills have been professionally recognized. If the certificate is from a reputable and credible institution, it is beneficial to include it on your banking
resume in chro
nological order.Hobbies and interests: Hobbies and interests are generally
not relevant in the banking industry, although recruiters may inquire about them during the interview process. You may choose to include a hobbies and interests section only if it is relevant to the position and if you are at an entry-level stage.
Tips for Writing a Good Banking
ResumeCreated by Cake
Resume
1. Conduct Thorough Research on the Company
Researching the company you are applying to is essential. It helps you understand the company's characteristics, the type of candidates they seek, and whether your skills align
with the job requirements. Remember that different companies may have unique job descriptions and requirements for the same position.
Thorough research demonstrates your seriousness and determination during the screening process. Additionally, being able to answer the question, “What do you k
now about our company?” is common during interviews.
Providing well-informed answers shows the hiring manager that you are genuinely interested in joining their team. Research equips you
with the k
nowledge to be better prepared and mature in your job search.
2. Understand the Distinction Between a
Resume and a CV
It is important to grasp the difference between a
resume and a CV. Sometimes, companies may request a CV when they actually mean a
resume. This confusion arises because the terms CV and
resume are often used interchangeably in certain countries.
A CV, also k
nown as a curriculum vitae, is a comprehensive document that encompasses all your
work experience, regardless of its relevance. It includes details about
work experience, volunteer
work, organizational involvement, internships, educational history, courses, hobbies, and other detailed information.
Resumes, on the other hand, are primarily used for job applications and should be
no longer than three pages. They focus on relevant
experience. For instance, if you are applying for a banking job, your
resume should primarily highlight your
experience in banking or other financial departments.
Including unrelated information in your
resume will be considered irrelevant by hiring managers and may decrease your chances of making the cut.
3. Select the Appropriate Format Based on Your
Work Experience
Different backgrounds and varying levels of
experience are the reasons why candidates commonly use three types of
resume formats. The significant distinction among these formats lies in the arrangement of each section and the narrative style. Let’s explore each format in detail:
Chro
nological
Resume: The chro
nological
resume is the most widely used format. It suits individuals who have followed consistent career paths across different companies. In this format, you list your
work experiences, educational history, and courses chro
nologically, starting
with the most recent and relevant ones, followed by older
experiences.Functional
Resume: If you lack
work experience and are a recent graduate or an entry-level
worker, the functional
resume is suitable. It allows you to emphasize your skills.In the summary section, you focus on highlighting your abilities and proficiency in hard and soft skills, rather than previous
experience. Since you may
not have extensive
experience, the
work section can include relevant
experience from internships, organizations, volunteering, and other activities.Combination
Resume:The combination
resume, also k
nown as the latest commonly used format, combines elements of both the chro
nological and functional formats.
Candidates first list the hard and soft skills they possess and then support them
with work accomplishments or
experiences. The combination
resume is ideal for individuals
with diverse
work experience, such as freelancers or job hoppers.
Now that you have chosen the appropriate banking
resume format, let’s ensure your
resume writing meets the required standards:
Keep the
resume length
within three pages to avoid wasting the hiring manager’s time.Maintain a clean appearance by using only two font sizes, such as 14 for headings and 12 for the rest of the text.Enhance readability by using line spacing between 1.25 and 1.5 to keep the
resume organized and easy to follow.Select a standard font that facilitates recruiters’s scanning of your
resume, such as Times New Roman, Open Sans, and so on.Lastly, submit your banking
resume in PDF format, which ensures compatibility
with various applications.
4. Utilize Relevant Keywords and Tailor Your
Resume to the Company’s Needs
To streamline the selection process, companies often utilize AI systems or ATS machines to evaluate incoming applications in the initial stages.
Resumes that successfully pass this assessment are automatically deemed “eligible”.
The key to passing the machine selection is incorporating the appropriate keywords, especially in the Summary and
Work Experience sections. This machine primarily scans for these keywords to determine if the submitted applications align
with the company’s requirements.
So, how can you identify the right keywords for your banking
resume? One method is to carefully analyze the job description and requirements outlined in the job posting.
Therefore, applying keywords is closely linked to tailoring the
resume you submit. It's important to
note that a single
resume can
not be used for all job applications due to the differing requirements.
To avoid confusion, let’s examine an example of keyword placement and
resume customization:
Company A looking for a Banker
Execute client instructions in accordance
with applicable policies and procedures.Verify and ensure the accuracy of instructions from the correct customer.Perform transactions provided by customers, adhering to applicable policies and procedures, including transaction authorization authority.
Company B looking for a Banker
Conduct day-to-day financial transactions such as deposits,
withdrawals, and transfers.Provide friendly and efficient customer service.Maintain cleanliness and order in the teller area.Ensure the accuracy and security of financial transactions.
As you can observe, the teller positions in these two companies involve distinct responsibilities. Some of the identified keywords include ‘ensure accuracy’, ‘customer service’, ‘verify and ensure’, and others.
By recognizing these keywords and tailoring your
resume accordingly, you can increase the likelihood of passing the initial screening process and progressing to the next stage of the hiring process.
Banking
Resume Templates and Examples
1. Banker
resume examples (Entry level)Banking
Resume Example for Entry Level
2. Banker
resume examples (Mid-level)Banking
Resume Example for Mid-level
3.Banker
resume examples (Senior-level)Banking
Resume Example for Mid-level
4. Personal banker
resume examplesPersonal Banker
resume example
Banking Cover Letter Example
In today’s job market, cover letters have become a topic of debate among job seekers. Many believe that cover letters are outdated and a waste of time since
not all recruiters read them.
But is this really true?
According to a survey conducted, by 2022, 72% of recruiters expect candidates to submit a cover letter, even if it is
not explicitly requested in the requirements. Furthermore, 77% of recruiters prefer candidates who include a cover letter.
A one-page cover letter serves as a personal introduction. It allows you to express your passion for your career or explain why you have chosen the company you are applying to.
If you’re an entry-level
with no prior
work experience, a cover letter can help you highlight the skills you bring to the table and demonstrate your potential value to the company.
For those switching to a new career, a cover letter provides the perfect medium to explain your motivation for entering a different field, helping recruiters understand your potential fit.
Have you
experienced a significant gap in employment? A well-crafted cover letter can help clarify the reasons behind those gap years, providing important context to recruiters reviewing your
resume.
To assist you in writing an effective banking cover letter, here are some helpful tips:
Include essential details such as your full name, city, email, phone number, and LinkedIn account to facilitate easy contact
with recruiters.Mention the date of writing the cover letter in the format mm/dd/yyyy.Begin the letter
with a proper greeting, such as ‘Dear Hiring Manager, or ‘Dear Ms./Mr [insert name’.The opening paragraph should introduce yourself, including your current status (for recent graduates, mention your campus name and GPA), your relevant
work experience, and the specific position you are applying for.In the subsequent paragraphs, expand on your accomplishments, skills, and measurable contributions that highlight your strengths.After discussing your achievements, address any additional information that may be relevant, such as your motivation for joining the company, explaining any gaps in your
resume, or referencing a letter of recommendation you have received.Conclude the letter by expressing your hopes for a successful outcome of your applications.
By following these guidelines, you can create a compelling and impactful banking cover letter.
Olivia RenataJakarta, Indonesia(+62)
[email protected]/in/oliviarenataMarch 23, 2024,Dear Mr. Potter,I am writing to express my strong interest in the AMP Banker position advertised on Cake
Resume.
With a strong background in customer service, I have consistently achieved high levels of customer satisfaction, as evidenced by a 97% increase in the most recent survey. Drawing upon my extensive k
nowledge of finance, I am confident that I would make a valuable addition to your team.In my current role as a Banker at Kensey Bank, I have successfully managed over 130 cash and credit transactions worth $45K+ per day, maintaining a spotless record of zero errors over the past three years. Additionally, I have actively encouraged customers to explore new offers from the bank.As a Banker, I have also assumed responsibilities such as assisting the supervisor
with audits and ensuring daily vault balance. My dedication and hard
work have been recognized through being awarded the Employee of the Month in both 2022 and 2023.During my in-depth research on AMP Bank, I was particularly impressed by the company’s commitment to providing a positive
work environment, fostering diversity and inclusion, and encouraging continuous learning among employees. These values align closely
with my own, and I am excited about the prospect of contributing to such a dynamic organization.I have attached a reference letter from my previous supervisor, which attests to my skills, performance, and strengths in my previous role. I believe that this proven track record greatly supports my candidacy.Enclosed, you will find my
resume, which provides further details about my
work experience and other relevant information. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my qualifications align
with your needs.Thank you very much for considering my application. I eagerly await the opportunity to hear from you soon.Sincerely,Olivia Renata
FAQs
1. Can I
work in banking
without a degree?
Are you concerned about
not having a finance degree but still interested in pursuing a career in banking? Don’t worry! According to MyBankTracker, there are several entry-level positions in the banking industry that offer specialized training.
Bankker: Responsible for providing excellent customer service during transactions, ensuring accurate electronic recording, and verifying cash received from customers. Median Salary: $24,940 per year.Bookkeepers: Responsible for recording and maintaining financial transactions, including purchases, expenses, income, invoices, and payments. Median Salary: $35,270 per year.Financial Clerks: Responsible for basic calculations and analysis, implementing company procedures, and preparing financial documents. Median Salary: $34,960 per year.Cashier: Responsible for depositing and
withdrawing funds, processing loan payments, and providing exceptional customer service. Median Salary: $18,970 per year.Bill and Account Collectors: Responsible for tracking overdue bills and negotiating
with customers who have missed payment deadlines. Median Salary: $32,480 per year.
2. What are the main challenges of
working in banking?
Work pressure: When dealing
with large sums of money, every task requires thoroughness, carefulness, and focus. Any errors in recording or reporting can significantly impact
work performance. Therefore,
working in a bank can be highly stressful.Overtime: White a typical
working day for banks often follows a nine-to-five schedule, employees are sometimes required to
work beyond these hours to meet customer demands or address the bank’s needs.Competitive
work environment: The standards for bank employees are exceptionally high, leading to intense recruitment processes and fierce competition. It is common for employees to compete
with one a
nother in terms of skills and qualifications to secure high-level positions.
3. Are there banking jobs that can be done remotely?
Are you interested in
working in the banking industry
without having to go to the office? Or perhaps you’re considering applying to banks in other countries? Well, it turns out that several banking jobs can be performed remotely.
Companies such as Bank of America, Citizens Bank, JP Morgan Chase, PNC, TD Banks, and First Horizon are k
nown to be open to remote
workers.
Remote
workers often find positions as virtual bankers, underwriting specialists, mortgage loan officers, customer service representatives, virtual payment consultants, and more.
Key Takeaways
A career in banking is the right choice because the industry offers job security, a competitive salary, and ample opportunities for career advancement.One common mistake candidates make when applying for jobs is
not realizing that their banking
resume may be weak and fail to highlight their skills effectively.Proper keyword placement is crucial when compiling a banking
resume, and it’s important to avoid common pitfalls.While some may perceive cover letters as old-fashioned, hiring managers in the banking industry value them as decision-making tools that can help candidates stand out.
Hopefully, all these tips will be of valuable help to you! Cakealso offers hundreds of career advice and tips related to the world of
work. Follow us today!
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— Originally written by Erika Rizqi —