20 NC State Employees’ Credit Union Interview Questions and Answers

The North Carolina State Employees’ Credit Union is a not-for-profit financial cooperative owned by its members. NCSECU has been serving the state of North Carolina since 1937 and currently has over 2 million members.

If you’re applying for a job at NCSECU, 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 NCSECU interview questions and answers to help you prepare for your interview.

NC State Employees’ Credit Union Interview Process

The interview process at NC State Employees’ Credit Union can vary depending on the position you are applying for. However, most interviews will involve meeting with a supervisor or manager, and may include multiple rounds of interviews. The questions asked during the interview process will typically be based on your work experience and job goals. Overall, the interview process is relatively easy and straightforward.

1. What do you know about NC State Employees’ Credit Union?

This question is a great way to see how much research you’ve done on the company. It’s also an opportunity for you to show your passion for the organization and its mission. When answering this question, make sure to include information that shows you know about the credit union’s history, services and products.

Example: “I have been a member of NC State Employees’ Credit Union since I was in college. My parents were members, so I opened my first savings account with them when I turned 18. I am familiar with all of the services they offer, including their low-interest loans and checking accounts. I also know that the credit union has been around for over 50 years.”

2. Why do you want to work at the credit union?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you better and understand why you are a good fit for their organization. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention specific aspects of the credit union that interest you or how your skills and experience make you a great candidate for the position.

Example: “I want to work at the credit union because I am passionate about helping others achieve financial success. In my last role as a personal banker, I helped many customers set up savings accounts and develop budgets that would allow them to save more money each month. I find that working in a customer service-oriented environment is rewarding, and I hope to continue doing so here.”

3. How would you describe your customer service style?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you would interact with members of their credit union. Your answer should include examples of how you have helped customers in the past and what your goals are for future interactions.

Example: “I believe that customer service is more than just answering questions or providing information. It’s about building relationships with our members so they feel comfortable coming to us when they need assistance. I always try to make sure my members know that we’re here to help them, no matter what their needs may be. In my previous role, I had a member who was going through a difficult time. She came into the branch and asked me if I could meet with her one-on-one to discuss her situation. I gladly did so, and she left feeling much better.”

4. Do you have experience in sales or marketing? If yes, tell us about it.

This question is a great way to see if you have experience in the financial industry. If you don’t, it’s okay to say so and explain what other skills you bring to the table.

Example: “I’ve worked as a salesperson for my current employer for five years now. I started out working on commission but was promoted to team leader after two years of consistently meeting or exceeding our goals. My team and I are responsible for bringing in new customers and increasing revenue through existing accounts.”

5. Have you ever had to handle a difficult customer or member? How did you handle it?

Credit unions often have to deal with members who are upset about something. This question helps the interviewer understand how you handle conflict and whether you can use your communication skills to diffuse a situation.

Example: “I once had a member call me because they were unhappy with their interest rate. I listened to what they said, asked them questions to make sure I understood everything and then explained that we could not change their interest rate but would be happy to help them find other ways to save money. The member was satisfied with my response and thanked me for my time.”

6. Walk us through how you would open an account for someone who was new to banking.

This question is a great way to show your customer service skills and how you can help others. When answering this question, make sure to include all the steps involved in opening an account for someone who has never had one before.

Example: “I would first ask them what type of account they were looking for. If it’s their first time banking, I would recommend starting with a basic checking account. Then, I would explain that we have several different types of accounts available, including savings accounts, money market accounts and certificates. Next, I would walk them through the process of creating a username and password so they could access their account online or on our mobile app.”

7. Tell me about a time when you were able to help a member solve their problem.

This question can help the interviewer understand how you use your customer service skills to solve problems for members. Use examples from previous jobs or describe a time when you helped a family member with their banking needs.

Example: “At my last job, I had a regular customer who would come in every week and deposit checks into her account. She would then withdraw all of that money within a few days. This was causing her an overdraft fee each time she did this. When I asked her about it, she told me that she was using her credit union account to pay bills online. However, she didn’t have enough money in her account to cover the bill payment. I suggested that she set up automatic bill payments so she could avoid these fees.”

8. What are some of your long-term career goals?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you better and understand what your career goals are. It can also show them how serious you are about your career, which is important for employers. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention some of your long-term goals that relate to the position you’re applying for.

Example: “I would like to become a manager at an organization one day. I have been working toward this goal by taking classes in business management and leadership. I am currently enrolled in a program where I will earn my MBA within two years. I think these skills could be beneficial to the credit union if I were promoted to a managerial role.”

9. Are you comfortable working with and handling money?

Credit unions are financial institutions that offer a variety of services to their members, including loans and mortgages. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the skills necessary to perform your job duties. In your answer, explain how you feel about working with money. Explain any experience you have handling cash or other financial transactions.

Example: “I’ve worked in customer service for several years now, so I’m very comfortable dealing with money. When customers come into my branch looking for help, they often need assistance with making deposits or withdrawals. I am always happy to assist them with these tasks. I also enjoy helping people find new ways to save money. For example, when someone comes in asking about our loan rates, I can show them all of our different options.”

10. Describe a time where you worked as part of a team to achieve a goal.

The hiring manager may ask this question to learn more about your teamwork skills. They want to know how you interact with others and whether or not you can work well as part of a team. In your answer, try to describe the goal you worked toward and what steps you took to achieve it.

Example: “In my last position, I was working on a project that required me to collaborate with several other employees. We had to meet certain deadlines for our project, so we all met regularly to discuss our progress. We also communicated through email and phone calls when necessary. By working together, we were able to complete the project by the deadline.”

11. What is your availability?

Employers ask this question to make sure you are available for the job. They want someone who can work a full-time schedule and be on time. When answering, let them know your availability and what days you would prefer to work. If you have any flexibility, mention that as well.

Example: “I am available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. I do not have any issues with working weekends or evenings, but I prefer to work during the day. My current employer allows me to take some vacation time whenever I need it, so I am flexible in that regard.”

12. Can you tell us about a time that you went above and beyond for a customer?

This question is a great way to show your interviewer that you are willing to go the extra mile for customers. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think of a specific time when you went above and beyond for a customer or helped someone in need.

Example: “When I worked at my previous job, we had a customer who was having trouble with their account. They were calling us multiple times per day about the issue, which made it difficult for me to help other customers. After talking with them on the phone, I realized they needed more one-on-one attention. So, I offered to meet with them in person so I could better explain how our accounts work. This allowed me to solve their problem and also help another customer.”

13. What qualities do you think make a good financial services representative?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have the qualities they look for in their employees. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a few of your own personal traits that make you a good financial services representative and how those relate to the credit union’s values or mission statement.

Example: “I think one of the most important qualities is honesty. I would never want to give false information to my customers because I know how important trust is when doing business with them. Another quality I think makes a good financial services representative is patience. It can take some time to explain all the details of a product or service, so I try to be as patient as possible while still being efficient.”

14. Do you have any experience working in the finance industry?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your background and how it relates to this role. If you have experience working in finance, share what you did and how it prepared you for this position. If you don’t have any experience, explain why you’re qualified for this job despite not having professional experience.

Example: “I worked as an accountant at my previous company where I helped manage finances and create reports for our clients. This experience has given me valuable insight into how businesses operate and how important financial management is to their success.”

15. We pride ourselves on our friendly and welcoming atmosphere. What can you bring to ensure we continue this tradition?

The interviewer wants to know how you can contribute to the culture of their organization. They want to see that you value teamwork and collaboration, as well as a positive attitude.

Example: “I pride myself on being an excellent communicator who is always willing to help others. I am also very friendly and outgoing, which makes me great at building relationships with customers and coworkers alike. My ability to listen and empathize with others has helped me resolve many customer service issues in my previous role.”

16. What kind of hours are you looking for?

This question is often asked to determine if you are a good fit for the company’s current work schedule. If you’re interviewing for an opening that requires working weekends, the interviewer may ask this question to see if you’re available during those times. When answering this question, be honest about your availability and consider how it aligns with the credit union’s hours of operation.

Example: “I am looking for a full-time position where I can work Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. However, I am flexible and understand that sometimes things come up. For example, I would be willing to work some weekend shifts if needed.”

17. What makes you stand out from other applicants?

This question is a great opportunity to show your confidence and enthusiasm for the position. When answering this question, it can be helpful to highlight any unique skills or experiences that you have that make you an excellent candidate.

Example: “I am extremely passionate about customer service, which is why I chose to pursue a career in banking. In my current role as a teller at First National Bank, I was able to help customers with their financial questions and concerns. One time, a customer came into the bank asking for advice on how to save money on their monthly bills. I helped them create a budget and find ways to cut back on spending so they could start saving more money.”

18. How well do you work under pressure?

Credit unions often have a lot of customers to serve at once. The interviewer wants to know how you handle working under pressure and whether you can stay calm when there are many people waiting in line. Use examples from your previous work experience that show you can remain calm and focused even when the environment is hectic.

Example: “I’ve worked in customer service for five years, so I’m used to dealing with high volumes of customers. In my last position, we had a promotion where we offered free gift cards to anyone who opened an account. We also gave out raffle tickets to everyone who made a deposit. It was very busy, but I stayed calm and helped each person as best I could.”

19. Do you consider yourself a competitive person?

Credit unions are often competing with other financial institutions for customers. Employers want to know that you’re willing to go the extra mile to help their credit union win over new members and keep existing ones happy. Show them that you have a competitive spirit by explaining how you’ve used it in your previous roles.

Example: “I consider myself a very competitive person, which is why I’m so passionate about this role. I love being able to work with others who share my drive to succeed. In my last position, we were competing against another branch for the most new accounts opened per month. We ended up winning because of our team’s hard work and dedication to helping our members.”

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

This question is a common one in interviews, and it’s important to be honest. The interviewer wants to know what your greatest strengths are so they can see how you will contribute to the credit union. They also want to know about any weaknesses so they can help you improve them or decide if you’re a good fit for the position.

Example: “My greatest strength is my ability to work well with others. I am always willing to lend a hand to coworkers and customers, and I enjoy making sure everyone has a positive experience at the credit union. My weakness is that sometimes I get too focused on helping others that I forget to take care of myself. I’m working on being better about taking breaks throughout the day.”