Bank Teller

Your Fit

Income

$38K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-14.5%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Bank Teller?

A Bank Teller is a financial professional responsible for handling customer transactions at banks, including deposits, withdrawals, and other routine financial requests. They act as the primary point of contact for customers and ensure a high level of customer service.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Bank Teller.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Bank Teller earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$30K per year	$35K per year	$38K per year	$44K per year	$47K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $10K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Bank Teller do?

Work environment

Bank Tellers typically work in the branch offices of banks and credit unions. Their work environment is primarily indoors, involving significant interaction with the public. They often work in a team setting and are required to follow strict security and compliance protocols.

Quick task list

Conducts financial transactions such as cash withdrawals, deposits, transfers, and check cashing.
Balances cash drawers and reconciles discrepancies.
Assists customers with account-related queries and services.
Sells financial products like savings bonds, travelers' checks, and cashier's checks.
Maintains accurate transaction records and adheres to all banking procedures and policies.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Customer Service and Sales: Focusing on building customer relationships and selling banking products.
Foreign Currency Transactions: Specializing in exchanging foreign currencies and dealing with international transactions.
Commercial Telling: Handling higher volume and larger transactions associated with business accounts.
Lead Teller/Supervisor: Overseeing other tellers, training, and managing branch cash inventory.
Electronic Banking Specialist: Specializing in assisting customers with electronic banking services like ATMs and online banking.

Description

The role of a Bank Teller is integral to the banking industry, serving as the frontline in customer interactions and transactions. Tellers need to be meticulous in handling money, ensuring accuracy in all transactions. They play a critical role in spotting and preventing fraudulent activities by adhering to banking regulations and policies.

Communication skills are essential for a Bank Teller, as they must explain complex banking products and services clearly to customers. They also need to be adept at handling customer service issues, providing solutions that meet the customer's needs while adhering to bank policies.

Technology skills are increasingly important, as banking transactions become more digitalized. Tellers need to be comfortable with banking software, online platforms, and automated transaction systems. The role offers a pathway to career advancement in the banking sector, with opportunities to move into higher roles in retail banking, personal banking, or management.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Direct interaction with customers and the ability to provide helpful financial services.
A stable and professional work environment with opportunities for growth.
The satisfaction of accurately managing financial transactions and maintaining trust.

You might make a good Bank Teller if you are...

Detail-oriented, ensuring accuracy in handling cash and transactions.
A strong communicator, able to explain banking services clearly and effectively.
Comfortable with numbers and basic financial concepts.
Able to provide excellent customer service, even in challenging situations.
Interested in a career path in the banking and financial services industry.

Pros:

Regular, predictable work hours typical of retail banking.
Opportunities for career advancement within the banking industry.
Gaining valuable experience in handling financial transactions and customer service.

Cons:

The job can be repetitive and involves long periods of standing.
Handling large sums of money can be stressful and requires high accuracy.
Vulnerability to changes in the banking industry, like increased automation.

How to become a Bank Teller

Typical education

A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required for bank tellers. Some employers prefer candidates with some college education, but on-the-job training is commonly provided, making this an accessible entry-level position in the banking sector.

High school preparation

Courses:

Mathematics, particularly courses in business math or accounting.
Computer Science or Information Technology to build technical proficiency.
Business Studies to understand basic financial principles.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining finance or business clubs.
Volunteering in customer service roles or community financial projects.
Engaging in activities that require detail-oriented skills.

Preparation after high school

Consider obtaining an associate's degree in business, finance, or a related field.
Gain experience through internships or part-time jobs in customer service or financial institutions.
Attend workshops or training programs focused on banking and financial services.

More resources

American Bankers Association (ABA) - Offers resources and training for banking professionals.
Bank Teller Training Institute - Provides specific training programs for aspiring bank tellers.
National Banking Training Institute (NBTI) - Offers certification and education programs in banking.
O*NET Online - Provides comprehensive information on the Bank Teller occupation and related careers.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.