interview hints & tips

first direct is all about people. And our recruitment process aims to allow you to be yourself, feel at ease and to ensure that we're right for you, as much as you're right for us.

Here's a handy hint or two when applying for customer facing roles:
  • we're a bank that talks to our customers over the phone, so clear speech and the ability to build rapport with the person you're talking to is all-important
  • our customers come from all over the UK, so avoid using jargon, slang and endearments. You'll be asked to take a call simulation exercise which may sound daunting, but really isn't. You don't need previous banking experience and we'll give you all the information you need. It's simply about listening, responding positively to requests and questions and recognising when other products or services may be right for the customer. But above all, try and be yourself. We want to see the real you
  • we'll ask competency based questions, so have a think beforehand about how you've dealt with customer and colleague situations in the past; tell us about past experiences and achievements both in and out of work (so don't worry if you've not had a lot of work experience). Remember we'll ask you to support any statements with specific examples, such as team building skills
  • this is a sales role and you'll be working to targets if you join us so make sure you wow us with examples of your resilience and ability to influence!
  • give clear, concise and relevant answers wherever you can
  • we'll also need your work history, so ensure you have a record of previous roles.
You can help yourself by:
Oh, and good luck. We look forward to seeing you soon.