20 America First Credit Union Interview Questions and Answers

America First Credit Union is one of the largest credit unions in the United States, with over 1 million members and $9 billion in assets. The credit union offers a full range of financial services, from checking and savings accounts to loans and investment products.

If you’re applying for a job at America First Credit Union, you can expect to be asked a variety of questions about your qualifications, work history, and availability. In this guide, we’ve assembled a list of America First Credit Union interview questions and answers to help you prepare for your interview.

America First Credit Union Interview Process

The interview process at America First Credit Union is generally two-tiered. The first tier is an interview with a human resources representative, and the second tier is an interview with the branch manager. However, in some cases, perspective employees may be interviewed by a VP or other high-level employee. The interviews are generally fairly standard, probing questions about previous work and life experiences, specific examples asked for, I.E. describe an instance where you dealt with conflict with another employee, what skills do you bring to the table would be a benefit to our company? The interviewer described his own experience starting as a teller and moving up to an HR generalist.

1. What would you do if a customer was upset about their loan application?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle conflict and whether you have experience working with customers who are upset. Use your answer to highlight your customer service skills, problem-solving abilities and ability to work under pressure.

Example: “If a customer was upset about their loan application, I would first listen to what they had to say and ask questions if needed. Then, I would try to find out why they were denied for the loan. If it was due to insufficient funds or poor credit history, I would explain that there are other options available to them. For example, I could offer them an overdraft protection account or refer them to another financial institution.”

2. Tell me about your experience with money management and handling cash.

America First Credit Union is a financial institution, so it’s important that you have experience with handling cash and other financial transactions. This question helps the interviewer determine whether your skills match those required for this role. Use examples from previous work experiences to show how you’ve handled cash in the past.

Example: “In my last position as a teller at a local bank, I was responsible for counting large amounts of cash every day. I used software to help me count the money quickly and accurately. I also had to make sure all deposits were accurate before putting them into the vault. I would often use a scale to weigh the bags of money to ensure they matched the amount recorded by the computer.”

3. How well do you work under pressure?

America First Credit Union is a growing company that offers competitive salaries and benefits. They want to hire employees who can work well under pressure, but also enjoy the challenge of working in a fast-paced environment. When answering this question, it’s important to show your ability to handle stress while still performing at an exceptional level.

Example: “I thrive when I’m faced with a lot of responsibility and tight deadlines. In my last role as a loan processor, I was responsible for processing loans within two weeks of receiving them. This meant I had to work long hours during peak times of the year, such as tax season. While it was stressful, I enjoyed the challenge of meeting these high expectations.”

4. If a member came in to open an account, how would you go about it?

This question is a great way to test your customer service skills. It also allows the interviewer to see how you would interact with their members. When answering this question, it can be helpful to give an example of how you handled a similar situation in the past.

Example: “If a member came in to open an account, I would first make sure they were aware of all the different types of accounts we offer. Then, I would ask them what their goals are for opening an account and help them find the best option for that. If they already have another bank, I would try to convince them to switch to us.”

5. Do you have any sales experience?

America First Credit Union is looking for candidates who have experience in sales. This question helps them determine if you have the skills and knowledge to succeed in this role. If you do, share your previous experiences with selling products or services. If you don’t, explain why you haven’t had any sales-related jobs before.

Example: “I’ve worked as a cashier at my local grocery store since I was 16 years old. While that job doesn’t involve direct sales, it has helped me develop many of the skills necessary for success in this position. For example, I know how to communicate clearly with customers and provide excellent customer service. I also understand how to use technology to help me complete tasks more efficiently.”

6. Describe a time when you had to deal with a difficult situation or person.

This question can help interviewers learn more about your problem-solving skills and how you react to challenging situations. Use examples from previous jobs or personal experiences that highlight your ability to work with others, communicate effectively and solve problems.

Example: “In my last position as a teller at a local bank, I had a customer who was upset because they didn’t receive their money on time. They were very rude to me when they came into the branch, but I remained calm and explained our policy of not giving out cash before it’s deposited. The customer eventually calmed down and apologized for being so rude. We worked together to find an alternative solution.”

7. Are you comfortable working with numbers?

America First Credit Union is a financial institution, so it’s important that you’re comfortable working with numbers. This question helps the interviewer determine if you have experience in accounting or finance and how much time you’ve spent using spreadsheets and other financial software. Use your answer to highlight any relevant skills or experiences you have with numbers.

Example: “I am very comfortable working with numbers. In my last role as an accountant, I was responsible for maintaining accurate records of all transactions within the company. I used QuickBooks Pro to record expenses and monitor revenue. I also helped prepare monthly reports for senior management.”

8. Have you ever dealt with an angry member? How did you handle the situation?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle conflict and whether or not you have experience working with a large customer base. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills, communication abilities and ability to work under pressure.

Example: “In my previous role as a teller at a local bank, I had an angry member come into the branch one day. The man was upset because he felt like we were taking advantage of him by charging him fees for overdrafting his account. He started yelling at me and other employees in the branch, which made it difficult to calm him down. Instead of arguing back, I listened to what he had to say and explained that our policies are in place to protect both the member and the bank.”

9. Why are you interested in banking?

This question is a great way to learn more about the candidate’s interest in banking and how they view their role as a teller. It also allows you to see if they have any experience working with customers or other financial institutions.

Example: “I’m interested in banking because I love helping people. When I was younger, my parents lost everything when our house burned down. We had no insurance, so we were struggling financially for quite some time. My dad got a job at America First Credit Union, and he told me that it was one of the best places to work. He said that they helped him out when he needed it most, and I’ve always wanted to be able to do the same.”

10. What is your favorite part of being a teller?

This question is a great way to learn more about the candidate’s personality and how they feel about their job. It also helps you understand what motivates them, which can be helpful when deciding whether or not to hire someone. When asking this question, try to make it clear that you are looking for an honest answer.

Example: “My favorite part of being a teller is helping people with their finances. I love seeing the look on someone’s face when I explain something complicated in a way that makes sense to them. I find it rewarding to help people manage their money so they can have a better life.”

11. Why should we hire you over other candidates?

This question is a great way for employers to learn more about your qualifications and how you can benefit their company. Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly research the job description so you know what skills are most important for this role. In your answer, explain why you have these skills and provide examples of when you’ve used them in the past.

Example: “I believe I am the best candidate for this position because of my excellent customer service skills. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with many different types of customers, from those who were upset to those who were excited. I always strive to treat everyone with respect and help them feel comfortable. For example, last year I helped a woman who was nervous about opening her first credit card account. She had a lot of questions, but I took the time to answer all of them and made her feel at ease.”

12. How do you stay organized in a fast-paced environment?

America First Credit Union is a fast-paced environment, so it’s important to show that you can stay organized and prioritize your tasks. When answering this question, explain how you keep track of your work and manage deadlines.

Example: “I use several organizational tools to stay on top of my work. I have an online calendar where I enter all of my appointments and meetings. I also use a task management app to create lists for the projects I’m working on. This helps me stay focused on what needs to be done and when. I find that these two methods help me stay organized in my daily life.”

13. Explain what you know about America First Credit Union.

This question is a great way to test your knowledge of the company and its values. It also allows you to show that you have done some research on the organization before coming in for an interview. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention something specific about America First Credit Union that you admire or relate to.

Example: “I know that America First Credit Union was founded by people who wanted to help other members achieve financial success. I think that’s a really admirable goal because I believe everyone should have access to affordable banking services. I also know that America First Credit Union has been recognized as one of the best places to work in Ohio for several years in a row. This tells me that the company cares about its employees and offers them plenty of opportunities for growth.”

14. What are your short term & long term career goals?

This question is a great way to learn more about the candidate’s career goals and how they plan to achieve them. It also helps employers determine if you’re likely to stay with their company for an extended period of time. When answering this question, be sure to include your short-term and long-term goals as well as steps you’ll take to reach them.

Example: “My first goal is to become a team leader within five years. I know that in order to do so, I need to continue developing my leadership skills and knowledge of the industry. In addition, I’d like to earn my MBA by 2023. To do so, I will enroll in classes during my free time and complete additional coursework online.”

15. What is one thing that sets America First Credit Union apart from other banks?

This question is your opportunity to show the interviewer that you have done some research on America First Credit Union and are familiar with its unique qualities. Your answer should include a specific detail about the company, such as one of its values or how it operates differently from other banks.

Example: “One thing that sets America First Credit Union apart from other banks is its commitment to community involvement. I read in an article last year that the credit union donated $100,000 to local schools for new computers and supplies. This really impressed me because I believe that supporting our communities is important.”

16. What would you say is your greatest strength and weakness?

This question is a common one in interviews, and it’s important to answer honestly. Your greatest strength should be something that you are proud of and that will help you succeed at the job. When answering this question, think about what your previous employers have complimented you on or what skills you’ve developed over time.

Example: “My greatest strength is my ability to work well with others. I am always looking for ways to support my coworkers and make them feel appreciated. My weakness would be that sometimes I get so focused on helping others that I forget to take care of myself. I’m working on making sure I set aside some time each day to relax.”

17. Can you describe a time where you were able to help solve a problem for someone?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you approach challenges and solve problems. Use examples from your previous work experience to highlight your problem-solving skills, communication abilities and ability to collaborate with others.

Example: “In my last position as a teller at a local bank, I noticed one of our customers was having trouble accessing their account online. They were trying to pay some bills but couldn’t access their account because they forgot their password. The customer didn’t have any other way to get into their account, so I asked if they could call me back once they figured out what their password was. After about 20 minutes, they called me back and we were able to resolve the issue.”

18. Would you be willing to work on Saturdays?

America First Credit Union is a 24/7 financial institution, so the interviewer wants to know if you’re willing to work weekends. If you are, explain why and how it fits into your life. If not, let them know what days you would be available.

Example: “I’m happy to work on Saturdays as long as I get Sundays off. My family is very important to me, and I want to spend time with them during the weekend. I also have a dog that I like to take for walks in the mornings, so I wouldn’t be able to work on Sundays.”

19. We want our employees to be knowledgeable about our products and services. How would you approach learning more about them?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you approach learning new things and whether you’re willing to put in the time to learn about their organization. Use your answer to highlight your ability to research, ask questions and apply what you’ve learned to your work.

Example: “I find that I learn best when I’m actively engaged with the material. When I was applying for my previous position, I read through all of America First Credit Union’s online resources on loans and credit cards. This helped me understand the different products and services offered by the company and gave me a better idea of which ones would be most beneficial for our members. I also like to speak with current employees who have experience working in these areas.”

20. What does excellent customer service mean to you?

This question is a great way to show your interviewer that you understand the importance of customer service. When answering, it can be helpful to give an example of how you provide excellent customer service in your current role or past roles.

Example: “Excellent customer service means providing my customers with the best experience possible. I believe this starts by listening to their needs and making sure they feel heard. It also means going above and beyond for them when needed. For example, at my last job, I had a member who was looking for a new checking account because her old one no longer fit her needs. She came into the branch where I worked, and we talked about what she wanted from her next account. I helped her find a new account that met all of her needs and even set up online banking for her.”