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Standing Out in Financial Services Interviews: A 2025 Playbook

  • Publish Date: Posted 11 days ago
  • Author: Louisa Harrison

​Competency-based interviews have become the gold standard in financial services recruitment, providing a structured way for employers to assess a candidate’s skills, behaviours, and problem-solving abilities. With 2025 bringing new industry trends, evolving regulations, and a greater emphasis on digital transformation, standing out in these interviews has never been more crucial.

After a challenging 2024, the job market remains highly competitive, especially in financial services marketing. Hiring managers at firms like Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds, and Aviva are looking for candidates who can demonstrate real impact. Competency-based interviews assess how you work, not just what you have done.

​The key to success? Structure, clarity, and commercial awareness.

​Make Your Experience Count

  • Show Measurable Impact
    Use data to back up your achievements. Whether it is driving customer acquisition at American Express, increasing engagement at NatWest, or enhancing brand positioning at Legal & General, employers want to see tangible results.

  • Think Beyond Marketing
    Financial services firms value strategic thinking and regulatory awareness. Show how your work aligns with wider business objectives, especially in highly regulated environments like Santander or Prudential.

  • Communicate with Confidence
    Marketing is about storytelling, and so is a great interview. Bring your experience to life and connect it to the company’s needs.

 Understand What Employers Are Looking For

Financial services firms are increasingly focused on hiring individuals who can navigate regulatory changes, embrace technological advancements, and drive commercial success. The key competencies employers are prioritising in 2025 include: 

  • Analytical Thinking: The ability to assess data, interpret trends, and make informed decisions.

  • Resilience and Adaptability: With ongoing economic fluctuations and regulatory updates, employers need candidates who can thrive in uncertainty.

  • Stakeholder Management: Effective communication and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders remain crucial.

  • Risk Awareness: Understanding compliance, governance, and financial risk management is essential in today’s evolving market. 

Use the STAR Method to Structure Your Responses

Hiring managers want clear, evidence-based answers. The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) remains one of the best ways to provide structured responses.

  • Situation: Describe the context of the challenge.

  • Task: Explain your specific responsibility.

  • Action: Detail the steps you took to resolve the issue.

  • Result: Share the measurable outcome, focusing on the impact of your actions. 

Align Your Experience with Industry Trends

Financial services businesses are investing heavily in AI, automation, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives. To stand out:

  • Demonstrate your ability to leverage technology for efficiency and innovation.

  • Showcase your understanding of ESG principles and how they influence financial decision-making.

  • Highlight any experience working in digitally driven environments. 

Master Virtual and In-Person Interview Skills

Many financial services firms have embraced a hybrid interview model, meaning candidates must be comfortable presenting themselves both virtually and in person. Ensure you:

  • Maintain strong eye contact and professional body language, whether online or in an office setting.

  • Use clear, concise language and avoid industry jargon unless relevant.

  • Prepare for scenario-based questions that assess how you would handle real-time challenges.

 Ask Thoughtful Questions

An interview is a two-way process, and asking insightful questions shows your engagement. Consider: 

  • "How does this role contribute to the firm’s long-term strategic objectives?"

  • "What are the key challenges the team is currently facing?"

  • "How does the company integrate emerging technologies into its operations?" 

Final Thoughts

Competency-based interviews require preparation, confidence, and the ability to articulate your value clearly. By aligning your answers with market trends, structuring responses effectively, and demonstrating adaptability, you will set yourself apart in the competitive financial services sector.

 At Better Placed, we specialise in connecting top-tier talent with leading financial services firms. If you are preparing for an interview or looking for your next opportunity, get in touch today.