Lloyds Banking Group Flashcards
1
Q
Can you discuss a situation where you actively supported or promoted the organisation’s ambitious goals within your team or department?
A
2
Q
In what ways do you foster a culture of ambition and innovation within your professional sphere?
A
Encouraging Open Communication:
- team members feel comfortable sharing their ideas and perspectives.
I regularly host brainstorming sessions, team meetings, and forums that provide a platform for collaborative discussions and the exchange of innovative ideas.
Setting Ambitious but achievable Goals:
- goals that challenge individuals and the team
- goals act as catalysts for pushing boundaries and exploring new solutions.
Tracking progress toward these goals fosters a sense of achievement and encourages a continuous pursuit of excellence.
Promoting Continuous Learning:
- providing access to training programs, workshops, and resources that allow team members to enhance their skills and stay updated on industry trends.
- Initiatives such as arranging guest lectures, webinars, and facilitating opportunities for skill-sharing contribute to a culture that values intellectual curiosity.
Recognizing and Celebrating Innovation:
Cross-functional Collaboration:
- encouraging team members from diverse backgrounds and expertise to work together on projects.
Collaboration across departments not only brings varied perspectives to the table but also stimulates creative problem-solving and innovation.
Allocating Time for Creative Thinking:
I recognize the importance of providing dedicated time for creative thinking and exploration.
This dedicated time often leads to breakthroughs and encourages a mindset of continuous improvement.
Investing in Technology and Tools:
I ensure that the team has access to the latest technology and tools that facilitate innovation. This includes providing training on emerging technologies and exploring the integration of cutting-edge tools into our processes.
3
Q
Describe a time when you had to navigate challenges to align your actions with the long-term ambitions of the organisation.
A
4
Q
Can you provide an example of a situation where you challenged the way things were done and contributed to a more effective or efficient process?
A
5
Q
In what ways do you keep yourself updated on industry trends and emerging best practices in the financial services sector?
A
Podcasts
Chatham House Climate Change Conference
6
Q
Describe a project where you played a key role in delivering a strategy that had a significant impact on the business or its customers.
A
7
Q
How would you contribute to the ambitious environmental goals of the organization, especially in reducing carbon emissions and working towards becoming a net-zero business?
A
Audit
8
Q
In what ways do you integrate considerations of ethics and sustainability into your decision-making processes?
A
9
Q
Can you discuss a project or initiative where you actively contributed to the development of ethical and sustainable financial solutions?
A
Advising investment of fund
10
Q
What does the term “ethical and sustainable” mean to you in the context of financial products and propositions?
A
investments, banking services, and insurance products designed to both generate financial returns and also contribute positively to society and the environment. Leveraging finance for good
Ethical Considerations:
- investing in things that contribute positively to society, like healthcare, education, and social services
- over companies involved in activities deemed harmful, such as tobacco, weapons, and fossil fuels
Corporate Governance: Investing in companies that demonstrate strong corporate governance, transparency, ethical business practices, and respect for human rights and labor standards.
Investments that support environmental conservation efforts, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and other initiatives aimed at combating climate change and preserving natural resources for future generations.
Inclusion: Offering financial services and products that are accessible to underserved or marginalized communities, promoting financial inclusion and economic empowerment.
11
Q
How do you balance short-term customer needs with long-term financial planning in your current or past roles?
A
Balancing short-term customer needs and long-term financial planning requires a strategic approach that takes into account a number of different competing priorities and factors.
In the past I have found that building strong relationships with customers enables me to address their short-term needs effectively, prioritising work based on my understanding of their prioritise and experience. I would say one strength I bring is my ability to actively listen to customers and understand and research their evolving needs, this enables me to swiftly address immediate issues and provide solutions that align with their short time goal. In addition I have also found this approach helps to build trust and loyalty over time.
Simultaneously I prioritise long term financial planning efficiently by leveraging a data-driven approach, through employing forecasting techniques, analysing market trends and customer behaviour patterns I am able to anticipate future challenges and opportunities.
Through both of these techniques I am able to proactively respond to situations and effectively balance short term needs with long term planning, and through using my understanding and insights to identify and rank situations level of urgency and potential impact and priories my time and response accordingly ensuring an optimum outcome between short and long term factors.
12
Q
In what ways do you stay informed about the evolving financial needs and challenges that customers face, especially regarding insurance, pensions, and investments?
A
13
Q
How do you approach putting customers at the heart of decision-making, especially in roles where you have direct interactions with them?
A
14
Q
How would you contribute to making a real difference in the workplace, ensuring that all colleagues have the opportunity to thrive and succeed?
A
15
Q
Describe a time when you successfully collaborated on a project that had a meaningful impact on the organization or community
A
Manchester Food Partners
16
Q
How do you foster an environment where all colleagues feel empowered to voice their opinions and contribute ideas, regardless of their background?
A
17
Q
Can you discuss a situation where you actively supported a colleague in making a positive difference in their work or career?
A
18
Q
In what ways do you ensure that your team or department provides equal opportunities for all colleagues to excel and advance in their careers?
A
19
Q
How would you ensure that your team or department reflects the diversity of the customers and communities served by Lloyds Banking Group?
A
20
Q
How do you personally contribute to creating an inclusive and diverse work environment?
A
21
Q
Describe a time when you successfully collaborated with a diverse team to achieve a common goal.
A
22
Q
How do you handle situations where you observe or experience behavior that may be inconsistent with the principles of diversity and inclusion?
A
Just completed active bystander training
5Ds
1. Distraction
2. Direct Action
3. Delegation
4. Delay
5. Document
23
Q
Can you discuss a project or initiative where you actively promoted diversity and inclusion in your previous role?
A
24
Q
In what ways do you ensure that your team or workplace is inclusive and welcoming to individuals from diverse backgrounds?
A
25
How do you incorporate the values of integrity, respect, and service into your daily work and interactions with colleagues and customers?
26
Can you provide an example from your past experience where you actively contributed to a values-led culture in the workplace?
27
How do you navigate situations where your personal values may differ from the values of the organization?
28
In what ways do you see the values of Lloyds Banking Group aligning with your own professional values?
29
Describe a situation where you successfully led a team or project through a learning and development initiative.
30
What does continuous learning mean to you, and how do you incorporate it into your professional development?
31
Can you discuss a challenging situation where you had to acquire new skills or knowledge quickly?
32
How do you approach personal and professional development, and how would you contribute to the learning culture at Lloyds Banking Group?
33
In what ways do you seek out opportunities for growth and development in your current role?
34
How would you contribute to the continuous improvement and evolution of financial services at Lloyds Banking Group?
35
In what ways do you foster a mindset of innovation and adaptability in your approach to work?
36
How do you personally connect with the purpose of "helping Britain prosper," and how would you contribute to this mission in your role?
37
In what ways do you see the financial services industry contributing to the prosperity of a nation, and how can you contribute to that at Lloyds Banking Group?
38
Describe a situation where you went above and beyond to make a meaningful difference in a customer's or community's life.
Cafe - Energy Ratings
39
Can you discuss a situation where you had to make decisions that considered both short-term gains and long-term strategic objectives?
40
Can you discuss a project where you took a leadership role in developing a new product or enhancing an existing one?
41
Describe a situation where you had to pivot a project based on changing market dynamics. How did you handle it?
42
How do you ensure that the insights you generate are effectively communicated to senior management for decision-making?
43
Describe a situation where you had to deal with conflicting data or information and how you resolved it to provide accurate insights.
44
How do you prioritize and present key findings to ensure they align with the strategic goals of the organization?
45
Provide an example of a project where your insights played a crucial role in shaping a significant business decision.
46
Provide an example of a time when you suggested a new approach or idea that led to a positive change in your team or organization.
47
Describe a situation where you took a calculated risk or embraced a new idea that resulted in a successful outcome.
48
In what ways do you encourage your team to think creatively and challenge traditional methods of doing things?
49
Can you discuss a project where you identified inefficiencies and proposed improvements to existing processes?
50
In what ways do you leverage data and analytics to develop a comprehensive understanding of our customers and their interactions with our products?
51
Describe a time when you conducted market research to enhance your understanding of the target audience. What were the outcomes?
52
How do you approach building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders in the financial industry?
53
Can you provide an example of a successful commercial or strategic initiative you were involved in?
54
What role do you believe relationship management plays in delivering the company's strategy?
55
How would you navigate challenges in a diverse route-to-market approach, including working with Independent Financial Advisors and selling directly to customers?
56
What interests you about ethical investment choices, and how do you think this aligns with the overall strategy of the company?
57
How would you contribute to challenging companies to behave more sustainably and responsibly through our investments?
58
What do you think is the role of technology in improving customer experiences in the banking and insurance industry?
59
Can you share an example of a project where business and technology were successfully integrated to enhance customer journeys?
60
Describe a situation where you had to adapt to a technological change in your previous role.
61
How do you approach managing change to ensure it is quick and effective?
62
Can you provide an example of a situation where you went above and beyond to meet a customer's expectations?
Southway Homes
- negotiated utility bills
63
Describe a time when you had to handle a challenging customer situation. How did you resolve it?
64
How would you contribute to creating a customer-centric culture within our organisation?
65
Why are you interested in a career in banking, and specifically at Lloyds?
66
What do you know about Lloyds and its services?
67
Describe a situation where you had to deal with a dissatisfied customer or client.
68
How do you approach risk management in your work?
69
What is your understanding of regulatory compliance in the banking sector?
70
How do you stay compliant with ethical standards in your work?
71
Tell me about a time when you had to adapt to a significant change in the workplace.
72
What do you consider to be the most significant challenges facing the banking industry today?
73
What role do customer relationships play in the success of a bank?
74
How would you handle a situation where you have conflicting priorities or tight deadlines?
"In a professional setting, encountering conflicting priorities or tight deadlines is not uncommon, and effective time management becomes crucial to navigate such situations. Here's how I would approach and handle a scenario with conflicting priorities or tight deadlines:
Prioritize and Assess Urgency:
I would start by carefully evaluating the urgency and importance of each task. Using frameworks like the Eisenhower Matrix, I would categorize tasks into 'urgent and important,' 'important but not urgent,' 'urgent but not important,' and 'neither urgent nor important.'
This helps in prioritizing tasks based on their impact and deadline proximity.
Effective Communication:
Communication is key in such situations. I would proactively communicate with stakeholders or team members about the conflicting priorities and tight deadlines.
Discussing the situation openly allows for a collective understanding and may lead to a reevaluation of deadlines or a redistribution of tasks.
Collaboration and Delegation:
If feasible, I would collaborate with team members to share the workload and address conflicting priorities. Delegating tasks based on individual strengths and expertise can optimize efficiency.
This aligns with Lloyds' value of collaboration, as working together to find solutions is essential in meeting collective goals.
Flexible Planning and Adaptability:
I believe in maintaining a flexible approach to planning. This involves being adaptable and open to adjusting priorities based on changing circumstances.
Lloyds values adaptability, and by demonstrating flexibility in response to shifting priorities, I align with the organization's commitment to navigating challenges effectively.
Utilize Time Management Techniques:
Employing time management techniques, such as the Pomodoro Technique or time blocking, can enhance focus and productivity.
Breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable segments and allocating specific time slots for each task can contribute to meeting tight deadlines without compromising quality.
Seek Guidance and Escalate if Necessary:
If the conflicting priorities involve complex decisions or require strategic input, I would seek guidance from supervisors or relevant stakeholders.
Timely escalation of challenges ensures that decisions are made collaboratively and aligns with Lloyds' value of seeking advice and support when needed.
Learn from the Experience:
Post-resolution, I would conduct a brief retrospective to identify lessons learned. Analyzing the root causes of conflicting priorities or tight deadlines can contribute to continuous improvement.
This approach aligns with Lloyds' value of being committed to ongoing learning and growth.
By combining these strategies, I aim to navigate conflicting priorities and tight deadlines effectively, ensuring that tasks are completed efficiently and in alignment with the organization's goals and values."
75
What skills do you possess that make you a good fit for this role?
76
How do you handle stress and pressure in a fast-paced work environment?
77
Can you provide an example of a challenging problem you faced at work and how you resolved it?
78
Describe a time when you worked effectively in a team.
79
Discuss a project or accomplishment that you are particularly proud of in your previous roles.
80
How would you handle a situation where you discovered a colleague engaging in unethical behaviour?
Handling a situation where you discover a colleague engaging in unethical behavior requires a thoughtful and ethical approach. Here's a step-by-step guide on how I would navigate such a situation:
Stay Calm and Gather Information:
Maintain composure and refrain from reacting impulsively. Collect as much information as possible to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the situation.
Document specific instances, dates, and any evidence that may be relevant to the unethical behavior.
Review Company Policies:
Familiarize myself with the company's code of conduct, ethics policies, and any relevant guidelines. This helps in understanding the parameters of acceptable behavior within the organization.
Ensure that my actions align with the established reporting procedures outlined in the company policies.
Consult with a Trusted Colleague or Mentor:
Seek advice from a trusted colleague or mentor within the organization. Discussing the situation with someone experienced can provide valuable insights and guidance on the best course of action.
Lloyds places importance on collaboration and seeking advice, and this step aligns with the organization's values.
Report the Unethical Behavior through Proper Channels:
Follow the established reporting channels as outlined in the company policies. This may involve reporting to a supervisor, manager, human resources, or a designated ethics hotline.
Ensure that the report is clear, factual, and includes any supporting evidence. Maintaining confidentiality during this process is essential.
Maintain Professionalism and Objectivity:
Throughout the process, maintain professionalism and objectivity. Refrain from making assumptions or spreading unverified information.
Focus on the specific behavior observed and its potential impact rather than personal opinions or judgments.
Protect Whistleblower Rights:
Acknowledge and respect the rights of the whistleblower, ensuring that they are protected from retaliation. Whistleblower protection is a crucial aspect of ethical reporting.
Be aware of and adhere to any legal protections afforded to individuals reporting unethical behavior.
Cooperate with Investigations:
If an investigation is initiated, cooperate fully and provide any additional information or assistance required. This demonstrates a commitment to transparency and integrity.
Lloyds values ethical conduct, and actively participating in investigations aligns with the organization's commitment to upholding high ethical standards.
Follow Up on Resolution:
Stay informed about the progress of the investigation and any subsequent actions taken by the organization. Ensure that the matter is resolved appropriately and in accordance with company policies.
This commitment to ethical accountability aligns with Lloyds' value of ensuring responsible and ethical behavior at all levels.
Reflect and Learn:
After the situation is resolved, take the opportunity to reflect on the experience. Consider any lessons learned and how similar situations can be handled more effectively in the future.
Continuous learning and growth align with Lloyds' values, contributing to a culture of responsibility and improvement.
By following these steps, I would aim to address unethical behavior responsibly and contribute to maintaining a workplace environment aligned with the ethical standards set by Lloyds
81
Where do you see the future of banking and finance, and how do you plan to contribute to it?
82
A new colleague told you that she feels scared to share her opinions with her team due to her position and experience. What advice would you give her, giving examples of specific methodology?
I would approach the situation with both empathy and practical guidance.
In a one-to-one setting, possibly over coffee, I would express gratitude for her trust in confiding in me. I would empathize with her feelings and assure her that her position within the team is well-deserved, emphasizing that everyone at Lloyds is valued for their unique contributions.
To address her concerns, I would remind her of Lloyds' commitment to values such as inclusion, trust, and putting people first. This reinforces the organizational culture that encourages open communication and diverse perspectives.
Drawing from my own experiences, I would share examples of team members who have overcome similar challenges. Highlighting instances where expressing diverse opinions led to positive outcomes and innovation can serve as inspiration and reassurance.
Practically, I would suggest a gradual approach to building confidence. Starting with sharing thoughts in smaller, informal settings, such as team-building activities or casual discussions, can help build trust. Personal connections fostered in these settings can create a sense of trust, making it easier to share opinions openly.
If participating in informal sessions boosts her confidence, I would encourage her to gradually contribute to more formal meetings over the next month. However, if the challenge persists, I would recommend a meeting with her manager to discuss her concerns. This aligns with Lloyds' commitment to continuous improvement, emphasizing how shared opinions contribute to a workplace culture that values learning and growth.
I would offer to be an ally and encourage her to speak up in team discussions. This not only provides support but also reinforces the idea that her opinions are valued within the team.
Additionally, I would point her in the direction of Lloyds' health and wellbeing provisions for staff, ensuring she is aware of available resources if she is feeling low. I would commit to checking in with her weekly over a coffee to gauge her progress and address any ongoing concerns. If needed, I would escalate the matter appropriately to ensure she receives the necessary support."
83
Can you tell me about some everyday activities that you really enjoy? What do you enjoy most about these activities?
84
We are keen to understand the particular goals or expectations that you have from your placement and how you will go about achieving them?
85
Community Bankers
Community Bankers are here to help our customers who may not have a local branch by offering banking services and account support. Your Community Banker will have a dedicated space in a community venue or Banking Hub. See our list of locations and opening times to find out where they’ll be.
Payments and transfers
Card and PIN services
Manage your account
Help with Banking Online
Register for Telephone Banking
86
Why Lloyds?
I am drawn to Lloyds for its unwavering commitment to a values-led culture that strives to make a positive difference. It is evident that Lloyds' five core values are not merely words on paper but are deeply embedded in the people and strategic decisions that define the organisation.
First, the 'People First' value strongly resonates with my own ethos, particularly in my role as the Chair of the university's largest volunteering society. Overseeing 15,000+ hours of volunteering in nine months, I prioritized putting people at the forefront of every initiative. This strongly aligns with Lloyds' commitment to meet and support customers where they are, a principle crucial in areas like pensions.
'Bold' is an attribute I actively embrace. Having taught myself to code, I delivered AI-based projects at the University of Cambridge and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. I am eager to bring this innovative mindset to Lloyds, an environment that not only values bold actions but encourages and celebrates them.
The 'Inclusive' value, particularly Lloyds' commitment to diverse representation, is admirable. In my role as a consultant at FoodSync, I consistently prioritize considering diverse perspectives when proposing solutions for clients. I believe that diverse teams lead to more comprehensive and innovative outcomes.
Lloyds' commitment to 'Sustainability' is truly commendable, from enabling the creation of the world's largest windfarm to pledging not to fund new oil and gas fields. My STEM degree positions me as someone ready to contribute meaningfully to evidence-led sustainability initiatives.
'Trust' is foundational to teamwork, a principle I have observed in action during my role at the World Food Forum. Working in an international team, I experienced the importance of open communication and a positive working environment in achieving common goals.
Furthermore, I deeply resonate with Lloyds' commitment to evolve and stay relevant. As someone who values continuous growth and adaptability, I am excited about the prospect of contributing to Lloyds' ongoing success.
87
Why this scheme?
Committed to helping Britain prosper and to building a more inclusive and sustainable world.
Financial wellbeing and independence is a crucial part of that.
Embark, LDC and Scottish Widows are leading this change.
Embark is one of the UK’s largest retirement solutions providers, with over £35.3 billion of assets under administration for around 399,000 consumers.
Committed to advancing the UK investment savings and retirement market through technology, helping its partners to provide affordable solutions and improve the quality of retirement for every consumer, regardless of affluence.
88
We are keen to understand the particular goals or expectations that you have from your placement and how you will go about achieving them?
89
Why are green pensions important?
according to Make My Money Matter, making a pension ‘green’ is 21 times more effective at cutting an individual’s carbon footprint than adopting a vegetarian diet, changing their energy supplier and giving up flying combined.1
90
I plan to make a substantial impact in the financial services sector by addressing the long-term protection, retirement, and investment needs of millions of customers. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to enhance lloyds' diverse expertise, products and platform to build a more inclusive and sustainable world.
My primary aim is to put customer needs first. I aspire to contribute to the development of tools like Scottish Widow's 'Meet Your Future Self' and 'FYI' to empower customers with enhanced financial literacy and enable them to make informed decisions about their pensions.
I aim to work collaboratively with different members of the Lloyds group, such as Embark, LDC, Scottish Widows, and Schroders Personal Wealth. This collaboration will provide me with a unique opportunity to develop a deep understanding of both Lloyds' diverse customer base and the broader business landscape.
I am keen on strengthening my comprehension of Lloyds' broader commercial strategy. This involves actively participating in initiatives to drive revenue growth, diversification, and maximise efficiency in cost and capital. By immersing myself in the complexities of the business and learning from experienced professionals within the organisation, I aim to gain insights that contribute to strategic decision-making.
Challenging the way things are currently done and exploring new ideas is a key aspect of my expectations for the graduate scheme. I am enthusiastic about generating insights that inform senior management decisions and leading projects that will shape the future of our products. This involves not only understanding the existing processes but actively seeking opportunities for improvement and innovation.
I am committed to achieving these specific goals through a multifaceted approach. Firstly, I plan to throw myself into all tasks and roles, demonstrating a strong work ethic and eagerness to learn. Independent learning will be a cornerstone of my approach, as I believe continuous education is key in a dynamic industry. Additionally, I am not hesitant to ask questions and seek guidance, recognising the value of tapping into the wealth of knowledge within the organisation.
Furthermore, my ability to work well in teams and learn from others will be instrumental in achieving these goals. I believe that collaboration fosters innovation, and I am eager to contribute to a culture where diverse perspectives are valued and leveraged for the benefit of the entire team and, ultimately, the customers.
In summary, my approach to the graduate scheme at Lloyds involves a combination of dedication, continuous learning, collaboration, and a proactive mindset. I am excited about the prospect of contributing to the organization's mission and playing a pivotal role in its future success."
91
what do you enjoy doing
92
How would you initially set yourself up for success?
93
Name a few of your strengths and weaknesses
94
Tell me about yourself?
95
Tell me about a complex piece of work you made, how did you prioritise, what were the issues, who did you communicate with, what were the challenges how did you overcome them and what was the result
96
What are your core values?
97
Why Lloyds Program and key skills:
Grad said: programme seemed really focussed on providing graduates meaningful work where you can actually create a positive impact for your team
importance of soft skills and attention to detail
- collaboration and team work
- feel confident to express an opinion but respect and listen to others, be open and honest;
self driven - think about what YOU can do. Seek to develop yourself and not wait for others to do it for you to suggest things;
resilience - things will go wrong but learn from those challenges or mistakes and come back motivated and stronger;
Ask for help and advice - don't think it's wrong or a sign of weakness to ask. There will be colleagues with different experiences who can support and advise.
Put the customer at the centre of all you do and keep the values of the Group front and centre.
98
The first top quality would be adaptability as this will allow you to navigate evolving tasks and environments. Secondly, strong communication skills will help you foster collaboration and understanding. Lastly, proactive attitude to demonstrate initiative and problem solving abilities, essential in a dynamic work setting. These qualities combined contribute to overall success in your role.
Sust Finan Wellbeing
99
Learning from failure
diversity of thought is key to success in our business
being resilient and adaptable as I had to quickly adapt my proposal to drive impact.
strong network as I turned to my team for suggestions and feedback to improve my proposal
100
What draws you to a career in finance, specifically in a role that contributes to sustainable financial wellbeing?
101
How do you see your strengths contributing to our mission of helping Britain prosper?
101
Which of Lloyds Banking Group's values resonates most with you, and can you provide an example of how you've demonstrated this value in your life or career?
102
Describe a time when you had to learn something new quickly. What motivated you, and how did you approach the challenge?
103
When faced with an unfamiliar task, what approach do you take to ensure you can perform it well?
104
Can you talk about a time when you received feedback on your performance? How did you use it to grow?
105
What motivates you? Or, conversely, what do you find draining or tiresome?
106
If you had 2 hours off work, what would you do with it?
Go outside
Nature
Training for a half marathon
Exercise
Call a friend I haven't seen in a while
107
Why do private equity firms use leverage when buying a company?
By using significant amounts of leverage (debt) to help finance the purchase price, the private equity firm reduces the amount of money (the equity) that it must contribute to the deal. Reducing the amount of equity contributed will result in a substantial increase to the private equity firm’s rate of return upon exiting the investment (e.g. selling the company five years later).
108
Do you prefer starting or finishing a task?
Starting
Divergent Thinking
Convergent Thinking
I do get them done
109
Do you prefer detail or the bigger picture?
A balance of both - leaning towards bigger picture
Where the ship is heading
Accuracy builds trust and reliability
110
Have you ever done something differently the second time around?
Data Science
- 1st - read for half time, actioned second half
- 2nd - 25% read 25% action, 25% read 25% action
111
Do you need to be an expert in something to be a leader?
No
112
What do you do when something at work bores you?
Think about Why I'm doing it?
Jay Shetty Podcast
52 minutes 7 minute break
Pomodoro 25min 5 min
113
How do you make others feel confident in your own skills?
Confidence and action
114
How do you handle working with someone you don’t like?
Look for the good
LBG share values, focus on commonalities
115
What makes you more likely to succeed in this role than other applicants?
diverse breadth of experience
combination of numeracy
people skills
116
What makes you less likely to succeed?
How do you define success?
Not meeting objective
Not fully understanding problem, solution
117
Do you keep your promises?
118
What motivates you to deliver exceptional service to customers? Can you share an example where you went out of your way to meet a customer's need?
119
Are you a good listener?
120
Would your friends say you are an organised person?
121
What are your greatest strengths? When do you use them at their best?
122
Are there situations in which you overuse these strengths?
123
Can you describe a situation where you challenged the status quo or an existing process? What motivated you, and what was the outcome?
124
What aspects of the financial services industry excite you the most, and why are you drawn to this area?
125
What does sustainable financial wellbeing mean to you, and can you provide an example of how you've contributed to sustainability in your personal or professional life?
126
Describe a project or task where you had to collaborate with others to achieve a goal. What role did you play, and what did you enjoy about working with the team?
127
Share an experience where you had to adapt to a significant change or overcome a major obstacle. What strengths helped you navigate this situation?
128
Tell us about a time when your curiosity led you to discover something new or innovative. How did you pursue this interest?
129
What does success mean to you?
130
In your life, what have you done that you are most proud of? What made it significant to you and what did you learn from the experience?
131
Why is sustainability important in business, especially in financial services, and how have you demonstrated this commitment in your actions or studies?
132
What things did you really enjoy doing when you were younger?
133
What gets done on your ‘to do’ list? What never gets done?
133
What activities come naturally to you?
134
What energises you?
135
Can you share a time when you had to learn something new outside your comfort zone? How did you approach this challenge?"
136
Financial services are heavily regulated. Can you share your experience or understanding of working within regulatory frameworks?
137
Scottish Widows History
Scottish Widows was set up in 1815 to take care of women and children who lost their fathers, brothers and husbands in the Napoleonic Wars, taking its name after the people it was founded to look after. Now more than 200 years on, we look after almost 6 million customers across the UK. Today our commitment is still the same - to help people plan for their financial futures.
138
Scottish Widows’ product range includes
Scottish Widows’ product range includes workplace and individual pensions, annuities, life cover, critical illness, income protection as well as savings and investment products. Customers can access our products and services through Independent Financial Advisers, directly, and through all Lloyds Bank, Bank of Scotland and Halifax branches.
139
Networking is key in many industries, including finance. Can you talk about how you've built or leveraged your network to achieve a goal?
140
Describe a project where you took the lead. What was the challenge, and what strengths did you rely on to ensure its success?
141
Give an example of when you had to persuade others to adopt your point of view. What approach did you use, and how effective was it?
142
Tell us about a time when you used data to make a decision or solve a problem. What was the context, and what insights did you gain?
143
Can you discuss a creative solution you've proposed or implemented, particularly in a financial context? What was the challenge, and how did your solution impact the outcome?
144
How do you manage your productivity and collaboration in a hybrid working environment?
145
What are your key areas for personal or professional development, and how are you addressing them?
146
How do you believe the financial sector can contribute to societal wellbeing? Have you taken any actions or been involved in initiatives that align with this belief?
147
Tell me a time you’ve worked in a team.
148
Can you give an example of how you've contributed to creating an inclusive environment, whether in education, work, or your personal life?
148
Why do you want to work for Lloyds?
149
What is your biggest strength and how does it link to job spec?
150
What are you most proud of that you achieved in the last 6 months?
151
Who do you admire the most?
152
When do you feel most inspired?
153
What makes a good day for you?
154
What has been your biggest failure?
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How do you feel when you are faced with a sudden obstacle to your plans? What do you do to resolve it?
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Do you work best in a team or by yourself?
Team
Diversity of backgrounds and skills
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Do you find deadlines motivating or intimidating?
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Would you bend the rules to get the job done?
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If a colleague was struggling to make a complex decision, what would you do to help?
160
If a customer was unhappy with the service they’d received, how would you persuade them to keep on using your business?
161
Given a choice, would you prefer to be giving a presentation or double-checking data?
162
Can you give an example of a time when you helped a team overcome a disagreement or a challenge? What was your approach?
163
Share an experience where you led by example to motivate others. What were you trying to achieve, and what was the outcome?
164
Tell us about a time when things didn't go as planned. How did you handle it, and what did you learn from the experience?
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How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals in the face of challenges or setbacks?
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Describe a situation where you had to use your empathy to understand and address someone else's needs. What did you learn from this experience?
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Strengths in LBG Strengths List
Confident, Kind and Competent
Adventurous, bring people with you
Self aware
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Do you prefer customer-facing or business-facing work?
Do you communicate better in writing or in person?
Do you work better under pressure or in a relaxed environment?
Do you handle conflict well or do you avoid it?
Are you a quick learner or do you need time to absorb new concepts?
Do you begin tasks immediately or do you sometimes procrastinate?
Does constructive criticism motivate you or discourage you?
Are you more comfortable in a leadership role or in a supervised role?
Do you enjoy starting new tasks more or finishing them?
What do you value more, salary or work environment?What would you do if you accidentally overcommitted yourself?
What would you do in a management position if two employees were unable to work with one another?
What would be your response if your manager asked you to do something unethical? What about something illegal?
How would you respond if you were asked to work with a coworker who you didn't get along with?
How would you respond if your supervisor asked you to do something that you were unfamiliar with?
How would you continue your professional development in this position?
What would you do if family or friends asked you to use your position in the company to give them special favors?
If you were promoted to a leadership position, how would your relationships with your coworkers change?
How do you envision your life five years from now?
Tell me about a time that you had to find a creative solution to a problem.
How you have handled conflict at work in the past?
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The Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio i
s essentially a measure used by regulators to ensure that banks are in good financial health and can survive tough times without failing.
CET1 Capital: This consists of the core equity capital of a bank, which includes common shares, stock surpluses (resulting from the issue of common shares), retained earnings, and other accumulated comprehensive income. CET1 capital is considered the highest quality capital because it is fully available to absorb losses while the bank is operating.
Risk-Weighted Assets (RWA): These are all assets held by the bank, weighted according to credit risk, operational risk, market risk, and other financial risks. Different types of assets have different risk weights, as defined by regulatory standards, reflecting the likelihood of loss.
Imagine a Bank's Money Jar:
CET1 Capital: This is like the most reliable money the bank has in its jar—money it's saved up over time, including profits it hasn't distributed to shareholders and funds raised from selling its shares. It's the money that's fully available to cover any losses the bank might encounter.
Risk-Weighted Assets: Think of this as all the money the bank has lent out to people for things like mortgages, business loans, or any investments it has made. However, not all loans or investments are equally risky. Some are more likely to be paid back than others. So, we adjust the total value of these loans and investments based on how risky they are—this gives us what's called "risk-weighted assets."
The Ratio:
To ensure the bank is safe and not taking too many risks, regulators look at how much reliable money (CET1 Capital) the bank has compared to the adjusted value of its loans and investments (Risk-Weighted Assets). They do this by calculating the CET1 ratio:
CET1 Ratio = (Reliable Money / Adjusted Value of Loans and Investments) × 100%
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What does People First mean to you?
171
What does Trust mean to you?
172
What does Sustainability mean to you?
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What does Bold mean to you?
174
What does Inclusive mean to you?
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Describe a time when you displayed Boldness
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Describe a time when you displayed Inclusivity
Youth Member of the World Food Forum
Role within that is to collate and present global youth perspectives on issues on the food system to senior members of the FAO of UN
Huge task, divided into themes. Working in a 3 person team to
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Describe a time when you displayed Sustainability
If we understand sustainability as a concept built on three pillars: economic, environmental and societal. I had to balance all these needs as Chair of Student Action, the university's oldest and largest volunteering society.
I managed 16 projects that worked with disabled people, asylum seekers and refugees, homeless families, and elderly people.
My role involved allocating £25k of funds between these groups
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Describe a time when you displayed Trustfullness
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Describe a time when you displayed People-first
Plant Science degree - strong understanding of scientific evidence, data analysis
I found myself asking how will we use this, and how it is relevant. How do we get this technology and understanding into the people who need it?
Essentially are we thinking about the customers of this research? Whether it be policy professionals, financial bodies, farmers or the general public.
Those questions are beginning to be answered but not by the scientists themselves. It's ultimately why I decided to move away from science. Alongside my degree, I worked part-time for a consultancy firm. I work across public, private and social sectors to solve economic, environmental and social problems.
As a consultant, I learned about all the different types of people you need in order to make a change. For example, when I was writing the Manchester Food Strategy I mapped the role of public, private and social sectors in transitioning to a more sustainable and resilient food system. That involved meeting with and collaborating with all those stakeholders to understand the food system they wanted, the role they could play, and what was limiting them.
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2. Generation Z:
Needs and Preferences: Gen Z values early career financial planning, sustainability, ethical practices, and brands that take a stand on social issues. They prefer mobile banking and innovative financial solutions, instant and accessible services.
Critical Engagement: Develop a digital-first financial toolkit that includes micro-learning modules on financial literacy, embedded in a mobile banking app. Highlight the bank's sustainability efforts, engage through social media and mobile apps, and develop products that support their values, like green savings accounts or investments in sustainable businesses. Partner with eco-friendly brands to offer rewards that align with sustainable living, and host virtual career planning workshops focused on financial independence.
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5. Families:
Needs and Preferences: Families look for products that can help them save for the future, protect their loved ones, and manage day-to-day finances.
Engagement Strategy: Provide family banking packages, educational savings accounts, insurance products, and tools for budgeting and financial planning
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6. Ethical and Socially Conscious Consumers:
Needs and Preferences: want to bank with institutions that have strong CSR policies, invest in sustainable projects, and have ethical lending practices.
Engagement Strategy: Promote the bank's CSR initiatives, offer ethical investment options, and highlight efforts in sustainable finance and community engagement.
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7. Underbanked and Financially Excluded Populations:
Needs and Preferences: Trust and respect from financial institutions, access to basic banking services, financial education, and products designed to help them enter or re-enter the financial system, credit building.
Engagement Strategy: Develop accessible banking products that require minimal data usage, financial literacy programs, and partnerships with community organizations to reach and build credit and trust with these populations effectively.
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1. Young Adults and Millennials:
Needs: Financial stability, home ownership, ethical investing.
Wants: Personalized banking experiences, technology-driven solutions. financial literacy resources, and products that can help them with major life milestones such as buying a home or starting a business.
Critical Engagement: Offer personalized financial coaching through digital platforms, integrating AI and human advice to navigate milestones (like buying a home). Promote ethical investment portfolios with transparent impact metrics. educational content on financial health,
185
4. Retirees and Pre-retirees:
Needs and Preferences: retirement planning, wealth management, healthcare financing, and estate planning. They value security, trust, easy-to-use banking services, and personalized advice.
Engagement Strategy: Offer comprehensive financial planning services, secure investment options, and resources on estate planning and retirement living. Organize local community events focusing on hobbies and interests that also include sessions on financial security in retirement.
Scottish Widows Engagement
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3. Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs):
Needs and Preferences: access to capital, financial advice, and services that can help them grow, manage cash flow and market expansion, and navigate economic uncertainties. Networking opportunities, business advice, resilience strategies.
Critical Engagement: Create a digital hub offering not just financial tools, but also access to a community of businesses for networking, and a marketplace for SMEs to promote their services. Offer resilience workshops focusing on financial and operational adaptability, incorporating case studies from successful SMEs.
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Freelancers and Gig Economy Workers:
Needs: Irregular income management, tax assistance, retirement savings.
Wants: Flexibility, financial products tailored to their work style, support networks.
Critical Engagement: Launch financial products specifically designed for irregular income patterns, including flexible savings accounts and tax-saving schemes. Create online communities for freelancers to share financial tips, job opportunities, and advice on managing freelance challenges.
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New Residents and Immigrants:
Needs: Navigating a new financial system, sending remittances, building a financial history.
Wants: Inclusive services, multilingual support, quick integration into the financial system.
Critical Engagement: Offer a "Welcome to Banking in the UK" package with multilingual guides, introductory banking products with low entry requirements, and seminars on financial system basics. Provide services that facilitate easy and cost-effective remittance transfers.
189
To make homes warmer, more comfortable and cheaper to run, we need to improve the energy efficiency of the UK’s housing stock. According to the Centre for Ageing Better, £1 spent on improving warmth in homes occupied by vulnerable households yields £4 in health benefits, while the University of Warwick has found that retrofitting could save the average household nearly £400 on energy bills a year.
Despite these clear benefits, and the importance of decarbonising UK homes in order to achieve Net Zero by 2050, our recent housing stocktake reveals we need to increase the pace and scale of progress. Many people are being put off by upfront costs and a lack of information and support.
190
Lloyds Banking Group is the biggest bank for farming and agriculture in the UK and, working with the SMI, Soil Association, Soil Association Exchange and others, we want to help improve the sustainability of our agriculture and support those on the ground.
191
How do you think interest rates will trend in the next year?
192
At Lloyds Bank, we pride ourselves on providing the best overall customer experience. Talk about your customer service experience and explain why it will help our clients here.
193
I recently caught up with some of our new graduates and apprentices, and you can see from the selfie how enjoyable this was! With thanks to Amy Adams for chairing the Q&A, we covered a broad range of topics and, understandably, early career development was front of mind for many on the call.
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As the private equity arm of Lloyds Banking Group, LDC is proud to support our portfolio of c.90 mid-market businesses, across a wide range of sectors and regions. We are committed to increasing our support for the UK mid-market and their contribution to the UK economy. We will invest in at least 100 companies in the next five years, supporting management teams to fulfil their growth ambitions and build great business – it’s what LDC has been doing successfully for 40 years.
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EBITDA
earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization, is an alternate measure of profitability to net income.
196
FAANG
acronym for a select group of high-growth US technology companies, being Facebook (now Meta), Apple, Amazon, Netflix and Google (now Alphabet)
197
Case Study - Finance - Quantitative Recommendations
P&L vs Cash Flow
Payback Period
Length of Partnership
How would we finance project - debt, equity, own cash?
How do margins compare to overall company?
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Case Study - Finance - Qualitative Recommendations
Probability of Success?
Overall goal of the company?
Risk of project - financial, technological, operational
Opportunity cost - are margins better/worse than other opportunities
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Financial Services - Case Study
Repeat Question
Ask Clarifying Questions - lots of Why? e.g. Why Now?
Size of opportunity?
What does Success Look Like?
200
Frontier Market
Classification made by S&P, financial rating agency, used to classify less advanced economies
201
Banking Agent
retail/postal outlet contracted out by the financial institution
202
FX
Foreign exchange (Forex or FX) is the conversion of one currency into another at a specific rate known as the foreign exchange rate.
203
Lloyds Banking Group's positioning and strategy within the banking sector
- Lloyds is the biggest retail bank in the UK, so primarily focused on servicing retail customers and cross-selling mortgages, savings and investments, insurance etc.
- They have a good brand, good management and are generally very successful.
- They are also a big bank for UK businesses (NW is biggest) and I would expect this is an area they are looking to grow - to attract more deposits, more loans and more payments/transaction banking revenues from UK businesses.
- Very limited international presence.
- Will also be very focused on increasing digital capabilities (to better compete with Revolut, Monzo, Starling etc)
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Major trends shaping the banking sector in the next few years
- Biggest issue is declining interest rates, which will reduce bank revenues and profitability over the next couple of years. Banks are therefore very focused on making sure they reduce costs, and grow non-interest income (payments, FX, trade finance, investment)
- Continued focus on developing better digital banking as branch networks shrink
- AI has potential to be very impactful, helping banks reduce cost of serving customers, but still early days
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Challenges NatWest faces as it becomes more sustainable and socially responsible, and how these are being addressed
- Focus on climate impact remains strong, and banks are reducing financing fossil fuel projects
- Looking for solutions to serve customers as branch network shrinks - more digital banking, more joint banking hubs, partnership with Post Office etc
- big focus on treating customers fairly and vulnerable customers
