Why choose bank job after engineering? How to answer in interview?
This is the most asked question in interviews for banking jobs for engineering graduate freshers. Similar to the question "<a href="https://www.crazyengineers.com/threads/why-mba-after-be-or-btech-how-would-you-answer-this-question.73472">Why MBA After BE or Btech? - How Would You Answer This Question?</a>" that we've discussed a lot on this forum, this is a very important question that one needs to prepare for when going for any banking sector interview.
Update: Please refer to updated answers below.
Traditionally, it is believed that bank jobs are taken up either by commerce graduates or MBA degree holders. However, with the sheer amount of engineers that India is producing year after year, that picture has changed quite a lot in the last decade. More and more engineers readily choose banking jobs straight out of their engineering college.
The straight-forward answer to that is either one of these two or both:
1. Banking career in India is secure.
2. Banks offer better salary package over other sectors.
Even if you have a third option in mind already, you need to be able to put it very clearly before the interviewer. Many applicants aren't very sure of why they are going into a banking sector job, so I advise that you take time out before the interview to write down what a career in banking means to you and why you are a perfect fit for the said position in the bank.
Here are some of the points that I think should come in handy for any engineer preparing for bank interview.
I chose a banking job after engineering because:
1. Changing with times, banks have been fastest to adopt new technologies. As an engineer, I keep myself up-to-date with latest trends in technology sector.
2. ATMs, Internet Banking, Mobile Banking, Credit/Debit Card Management all these departments need engineers.
3. Engineers have really good mathematics & analytical skills - something that the job demands.
4. If applicable to your profile, you can talk about leadership. How you organised events at college level or at internship level. Banks need leaders in every department.
5. Communication Skills. A must for any banker. You need to quote real life examples from your experience at college and extra-curricular activities that helped you build really good communication skills.
6. Stability IT/Core Engineering jobs are highly unstable. If I am looking for a stable career option that pays well, banking offers really good options.
7. Perks at a bank job are really attractive for me as an engineer looking for a long-term stay. For eg: Cheaper loans, Accommodation facilities, Fuel for vehicles, LTC or LFC etc.
8. Banks have a fair selection process that relies heavily on merit. You can prove it to the interviewer that your technical know-how coupled with analytical skills are perfect for the bank job.
9. Every bank today has an Information Technology department. You can learn software used in bank (at least the basics) and that will come in really handy.
For eg: Finacle, BANCS, Flex Cube are the various leading software used in banks. As an engineer, it should be easy to train yourself in any one of those.
10. Last but not the least: Let the interviewer know that you are in this for the long-ride. Banks suffer from high attrition rates and most employees frequently shift their jobs. If you convince the interviewer that you don't like job-hopping (Something that's prevalent in IT sector), you increased your chances of getting selected.
Inviting opinions and suggestions from all engineers on this. If you are applying for a bank job as an engineer, do feel free to ask your questions below.
Update: New Answers
This discussion is very popular and has helped a lot of engineers wanting to opt for a job in a bank after completing their engineering. We have compiled a list of top 5 answers to this question that you can use.
This interview question is common, so make sure to prepare it well.
Best Answers to “Why Banking After Engineering?”-
"As an engineering graduate, my education has equipped me with a strong analytical mindset and problem-solving skills. These qualities are highly applicable in the banking sector, where critical decision-making and risk assessment are essential. I believe my engineering background will enable me to approach financial challenges from a unique perspective and devise innovative solutions."
"During my engineering studies, I developed a solid foundation in mathematics and data analysis. These skills are directly transferable to the banking industry, where financial modeling, data interpretation, and quantitative analysis play a crucial role. With my technical expertise, I am confident that I can contribute effectively to the bank's financial analysis and forecasting processes."
"Engineering education instilled in me a strong sense of discipline, attention to detail, and the ability to work methodically. These qualities are highly valued in the banking sector, where precision and accuracy are paramount. Moreover, my experience in managing complex projects during my engineering studies has honed my organizational skills, making me well-equipped to handle multiple tasks and meet tight deadlines in the dynamic banking environment."
"Engineering has always emphasized teamwork and collaboration, which are vital skills for success in any organization. Through numerous group projects and team-based assignments, I have learned to work effectively with diverse individuals and leverage their unique strengths to achieve common goals. This collaborative spirit will enable me to build strong relationships with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders within the bank, fostering a positive work environment and driving collective success."
"Engineering education not only focuses on technical knowledge but also encourages innovation and creativity. I believe this creative mindset is invaluable in the banking industry, where the landscape is constantly evolving, and new financial products and services are introduced. My ability to think outside the box, combined with a solid foundation in technology, will allow me to adapt to changing market trends and contribute to the bank's efforts in developing innovative solutions for its customers."
