Banking

How To Get A Job As A Bank Teller

In spite of the popularity of on-line-banking and banking machines, there is still an ongoing demand for skilled Bank Tellers.  Bank Tellers are the most visible of all bank employees and must therefore have a pleasant manner and excellent communication skills.  If you enjoy dealing with the public, you may enjoy a career as a Bank Teller.

If you want to be successful as a Bank Teller, you must be quick, detail oriented, well organized, a good listener, honest, responsible, able to work under pressure, have good reasoning skills, good computer skills, and a penchant for business, and mathematics.  In order to deal appropriately with a variety of customers, some who might be rushed, stressed, or even annoyed, Bank Tellers must be diplomatic.  They may work regular hours, part-time, overtime, and shifts, including evenings, and weekends.  They often spend most of the day on their feet.

In addition to working in banks, Tellers also work in credit companies, and savings and loan associations.

Depending on the size and type of establishment in which they work, Bank Tellers are required to perform a variety of duties, all of which are related to financial transactions.  Tellers are responsible for all checks, and monies handled during the day.  Before the bank opens, they must check the contents of their cash drawer.  During the day, they process deposits and withdrawals, checking accounts and signatures to ensure that information is correct.  They provide receipts and other transaction records.

They issue traveler’s checks, exchange currencies, process utility and loan payments, open new accounts, facilitate the issue of bank cards, answer questions, and deal with complaints.  During the day, Bank Tellers keep track of every transaction as these must be accounted for on a settlement sheet.  The sheet, which covers all checks, cash, and other financial transaction, must be balanced  correctly before the Teller’s day is over.

Education

Bank Tellers need at least a high school diploma.  Courses in mathematics, computer technology, and business practices are useful, as is a second language.  Clerical training is also useful.  Any experience dealing with the public and handling cash are a decided asset.   Part time or summer jobs in a retail setting will give you this type of experience.

Those working in banks must pass a criminal check.

Although a high school diploma is sufficient to start your career, some formal education related to banking would be helpful.  If you wish to advance in the business and be considered for promotions, it would be wise to get a college degree in areas such as business, accounting, or economics.

Once you have six months experience working as a Bank Teller, you will be eligible for certification.  Certification is concrete evidence of your skill and knowledge.  With it, you will be known as a Certified Bank Teller, a decided advantage for anyone who wants to advance in the field.  For more information on certification, go to the following site.

http://www.banktrainingcenter.com/CBT.asp

Once you are hired by a specific bank, you will receive on-the-job training in their specific policies,  systems, and software.

With education and experience you may advance to become head teller, loan officer, or branch manager.