Metro Bank 2024 Recruitment Process. Assessments and Interview Practice Guide

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SUMMARY

Considering applying for Metro Bank’s 2024 internship or graduate programs? Or are you interested in exploring professional opportunities with Metro Bank? Read on for the ultimate guide to boost your Metro Bank online assessment practice.

The text below provides a full candidate recruitment, assessment, and preparation guide and practice for those applying to jobs, internships, and graduate programs at Metro Bank.

Our website provides scientifically validated practice assessment tests, interviews, and assessment centre exercises that can be used to practice and prepare for the recruitment and assessment process.

Not sure if you should practice preparing for the Metro Bank Assessments? According to research, 60-80% of candidates are rejected based on their aptitude test results. It is proven that practice increases your chances of getting hired.

IN A NUTSHELL

How to prepare for the Metro Bank assessment process and tests to get the job?

1. Fill out Your Metro Bank Online Job Application

• Complete your Metro Bank registration online.
• Respond to the four competency queries.
• Match your responses to the Metro Bank core values.
• In your CV and application, use the wording and keywords from the job post.

2. Prepare for Metro Bank Online Assessments Used for Recruitment

Metro Bank may use a variety of psychometric assessments to evaluate candidates’ skills, and competencies such as:

• Numerical Reasoning Test
• Verbal Reasoning Test
• Logical Reasoning Test
• Situational Judgement Test

Did you know that these tests sift out up to 50-80% of candidates at this stage? The only proven way to get to the next round is to practice.

3. Record mock video interviews of yourself

Record yourself practising how to answer common questions in interviews for banking jobs. Ensure your answers flow well and are to the point. Avoid filler words.

Prepare for your interview rounds by running mock interviews and answering typical banking interview questions. For Metro Bank interview practice, use:

• Your smartphone
• Zoom or 
• Our Video Interview Practice Platform

Our practice video interview platform simulates the experience you will have on platforms used for job interviews by providing preset competency and industry questions for the banking sector. Record your responses and watch them to develop your interview technique. Practice until you feel satisfied.

Continue reading to find out the solutions to the following critical questions:

• What is the hiring process at Metro Bank?
• What is the Metro Bank online assessment?
• How should I prepare for the Metro Bank interview?
• What are the early career programs offered by Metro Bank?

For your Metro Bank assessment practice, click on the links below to get started now with our practice assessments!

Let’s take a look at what’s to come in this in-depth guide:

Metro Bank Recruitment Process

1. What is Metro Bank?
2. Metro Bank Online Application
3. Metro Bank Online Assessments
4. Metro Bank Initial Interview
5. Metro Bank Final Interview

Good to know bonuses:

6. Metro Bank Entry Roles/Graduates Programmes
7. Metro Bank Recruitment FAQs

Before we dive in, let’s take a closer look at Metro Bank and explore its wide range of career options.

What is Metro Bank?

Metro Bank UK is a renowned retail bank noted for its customer-focused strategy and advanced financial services. It was the first new high street bank to open in the UK in almost a century when it opened in 2010. Metro Bank set out to challenge the existing banking environment by providing a new and personalised banking experience.

For career opportunities, Metro Bank offers a wide range of roles, from entry-level positions to senior management positions. These roles include:

When you apply for any of these roles, you may be asked questions about your experiences. When answering these questions, it’s key to tailor your answers to Metro Bank’s values. 

But what are these values? Find out below!

Metro Bank Values

• Customer Focus: Exceptional service, personalised interactions, and convenience for customers.
• People-first: Prioritising a great experience for everyone at every step.
• Integrity: Upholding high ethical standards, transparency, and accountability.
• Innovation: Fostering creativity and continuous improvement in products and services.
• Community Engagement: Making a positive impact through community initiatives and support.
• Collaboration: Emphasising teamwork, idea-sharing, and collective goal achievement.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Valuing diversity for innovation, creativity, and better decision-making.

Now that we know more about Metro Bank, let’s dive into the recruitment process with the first step: the Metro Bank online application!

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Metro Bank Online Application

What is the Metro Bank online application?

Take the first step towards your Career at Metro Bank by showcasing your skills and experience through a convenient online application process. For your Metro Bank job application be sure to provide: 

• Your personal information
• Work experience
• Educational background

What do I need to apply to Metro Bank?

The minimum eligibility and grades/GPA required to apply at Metro Bank UK vary depending on the role you are applying for. However, there are some general requirements that all applicants must meet:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for most roles at Metro Bank UK.
• Education: You must have a minimum of five GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade C or above. Some roles may require a higher level of education, such as a degree or diploma.
• Experience: Some roles may require previous experience in a relevant field. However, Metro Bank UK is also open to applications from graduates and those with no prior experience.
• Language skills: If you are applying for a role that requires you to interact with customers, you must be able to speak English fluently.

Top 4 Tips To Ace Your Metro Bank Job Application

1. Do your research: Before you apply, make sure you understand the company’s culture and values. You can do this by reading the company’s website, following them on social media, and talking to current employees.
2. Update your CV: When you apply, tailor your CV and cover letter to the specific role you are applying for. Highlight your skills and experience that are relevant to the role.
3. Use keywords and phrases used in the job description in your CV and for any motivational questions in your application form.
4. Read the job description clearly: This will help you to articulate better why you are a good fit for that role and how your skills and experience match their requirements.

Check out our video below to get started on crucial research tips you can use to boost your Metro Bank application:

Now let’s move on to the next step – the Metro Bank online assessment, a crucial step in the recruitment process.

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Metro Bank Online Assessments

The Metro Bank job assessment is designed by SHL, and it is a multiple-choice 60-minute online assessment that consists of the following sections:

• Metro Bank numerical reasoning test
• Metro Bank verbal reasoning test
• Metro Bank logical reasoning test
• Metro Bank situational judgement test

We’ve got you covered for all things assessment in this section! Keep reading to discover the best tricks and tips to ace your Metro Bank tests.

1. Metro Bank Numerical Reasoning Test

What is the Metro Bank Numerical Reasoning Test?

The Metro Bank tests your numerical reasoning skills through how you interpret numerical information presented in charts, graphs, and tables to make correct calculations to reach the correct answer. 

Discover more about numerical reasoning test questions and how Metro Bank uses these to hire with this short video:

Top 5 Tips to Prepare for Your Metro Bank Numerical Reasoning Test

1. Refresh basic maths, such as: percentages, ratios, fractions, estimates, time, currency and other measurements ahead of the real assessment.
2. Practice numerical reasoning tests: Consistently practice numerical tests to improve your speed and accuracy. Practice under timed conditions to boost your time management skills.
3. Use GF Performance Reports to enhance your performance: Review areas of improvement. Understand the methods used in the worked solutions to help focus your practice.
4. Get some rest: Never underestimate the importance of good sleep the night before. These tests require concentration, so it’s key to stay focused.
5. Organise your surroundings: Ensure to find a quiet space to take the Metro test, and bring a calculator, notepad and pen with you to make calculations!  

Metro Bank-Style Numerical Reasoning Test Example

Think you nailed it? Check the bottom of the page for the answer!

The numerical test is just the start of your Metro Bank application process, let’s now discover more about how to ace your Metro Bank verbal reasoning test.

2. Metro Bank Verbal Reasoning Test

What is the Metro Bank verbal reasoning test?

The Metro Bank verbal reasoning questions assess your ability to understand and interpret written or spoken information and draw conclusions to answer the questions. This is to measure your language literacy and communication skills.

Don’t miss our short video below for an overview of verbal reasoning tests used by employers such as Metro Bank:

6 Key Tips to Ace the Metro Bank Verbal Reasoning Test

1. Understand the answer options: “True” means the statement is correct, “False” is when the statement is opposite and “Cannot say” for when there is not enough information provided.  
2. Only use the information in the passage Before attempting the questions, identify and highlight essential details in the passage. This helps you refer back to crucial points while answering.
3. Invest some time in reading: Allocate adequate time to read the passage thoroughly. Avoid rushing through the text, as understanding the context is crucial for answering the questions correctly.
4. Try solving a crossword and other word puzzles to improve your vocabulary and linguistic skills. Word puzzles sharpen your language proficiency, aiding in comprehending and interpreting verbal reasoning passages with ease.
5. Get plenty of rest: Rested and alert minds are more adept at processing information, enhancing your ability to navigate verbal reasoning questions effectively.
6. Reason and critically examine various concepts with the language used: Analyse the language structure and the relationships between different concepts within the passage to draw accurate conclusions

Test your verbal reasoning skills with this example question our team has designed below.

Metro Bank-Style Verbal Reasoning Question Example

Got the answer? Check the bottom of the page to see if you got it right!

After completing the verbal test, the next assessment you will likely be headed for is the Metro Bank logical reasoning test.

3. Metro Bank Logical Reasoning Test

What is the Metro Bank Logical Reasoning Test?

Metro Bank may use a logical reasoning test for some roles. For these questions, you will be required to analyse a sequence of shapes and make deductions based on a set of underlying rules shared by these shapes. 

For more Metro Bank logical test practice, check out our video below for 5 more logical reasoning questions with worked solutions:

Top 5 Tips to Prepare for Metro Bank Logical Reasoning Tests

1. Pace yourself: Build confidence by taking one practice test at a time to familiarise yourself with the questions and the logic expected to be used behind them.
2. Practice each test in-depth: Ensure to practice each test in detail, to ensure you have given enough time to understand the questions and solutions.
3. Understand how to reach each answer: Before you move onto the next question in a logical reasoning practice test, make sure that you fully understand how the correct answer was reached.
4. Balance speed and accuracy: It is important to avoid sacrificing either speed or accuracy in your logical tests. Keep practicing until you are confident in your ability to answer quickly and accurately.
5. Analyse sample solutions: After completing logical reasoning practice tests, review the worked solutions provided to focus your practice.

Metro Bank-Style Logical Reasoning Test Example

For this logical reasoning aptitude example question, you will be required to observe the diagrams in the sequence carefully to uncover a shared pattern to determine which of the options would be the next diagram in the sequence.

In the pattern above, you will only have around 45 seconds to notice that:

• The arrow rotates clockwise around the diagram
• The sequence of shapes is triangle-circle-square
• The long line alternates between horizontal and vertical
• …and to identify the correct answer!

Think you’ve cracked it? Check the bottom of the page for the answer!

Another assessment you may be required to take at Metro Bank is the situational judgement test. Let’s find out more about this test below!

4. Metro Bank Situational Judgement Test

What is the Metro Bank Situational Judgement Test?

The Metro Bank situational judgement test is an immersive assessment which uses work scenarios to assess your competencies and behaviours based on how you would approach the situations and the actions you take to resolve any conflict.

For more details about situational judgement tests that are used in the Metro Bank hiring process, check out our short video below:

5 Key Tips to Ace the Metro Bank Situational Judgement Test

1. Familiarise yourself with Metro’s values: Understand Metro Bank’s core values and culture, as the situational judgement test often assesses how well you align with the organisation’s principles.
2. Put ethics first: When faced with scenarios, choose responses that show integrity and uphold high moral standards. Prioritise ethical and professional conduct in your decisions.
3. Highlight your team player skills: When evaluating scenarios, consider how your choices impact teamwork and collaboration.
4. Time management practice: Practice under timed conditions to improve your ability to analyse scenarios efficiently and respond quickly.
5. Analyse potential results: Before making a decision, carefully consider the possible consequences of each choice. Choose responses that result in positive outcomes and minimise any negative effects on stakeholders.

Take a sneak peek into the test with an example our test developers have made to give you an idea of what your Metro Bank immersive questions may look like

Check out our short video for mistakes to avoid in your Metro Bank situational judgement test:

Now that we have had an in-depth look into your assessments, let’s now move onto the next stage of your application, the first Metro Bank interview.

Metro Bank Initial Interview

What is the Metro Bank interview?

The Metro Bank initial interview is a crucial stage in Metro Bank’s recruitment process, allowing you to interact with the hiring managers either by phone or they might invite you to their office based on your role. 

What does the Metro Bank interview measure?

The initial interview assesses your suitability for the role and determines your skills and experiences align with the position’s responsibilities.

5 Top Tips to Ace the Metro Bank Initial Interview

1. Research Metro Bank: Familiarise yourself with Metro Bank’s values, culture, and recent achievements to show genuine interest in the organisation.
2. Practice interview questions: Develop your confidence in your interview technique by practicing commonly used interview questions and use feedback from your performance.
3. Highlight Customer-Centric Approach: Metro Bank values exceptional customer service, so emphasise your commitment to understanding and meeting customer needs.
4. Emphasise Your Soft Skills: Highlight soft skills like communication, adaptability, and teamwork. Illustrate how these qualities contribute to your overall effectiveness in the role at Metro Bank.
5. Ask Thoughtful Questions: At the end of the interview, ask relevant questions about the role and the team to demonstrate your engagement and curiosity about the position.

Check out the video below for even more tips and tricks you can use in your Metro Bank competency-based interview:

Metro Bank utilises competency-based interview questions to assess candidates’ skills and experiences effectively. Check out our example questions and how to answer these below!

EXAMPLE METRO BANK INTERVIEW QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Question: Describe a situation where you had to work as part of a team to achieve a common goal. How did you contribute, and what was the result?

Good Answer:

• Situation: During my time in university, I was part of a team project for a marketing course where we were tasked to create a comprehensive marketing campaign for a new product launch.
• Task: Our task was to collaborate effectively as a team, each taking on specific roles and responsibilities, to develop a creative and impactful marketing campaign within a tight deadline.
• Action: I took the initiative to research market trends and competitor analysis to identify potential target audiences. I also volunteered to design visual content for the campaign, utilising my graphic design skills. Additionally, I actively participated in brainstorming sessions, providing innovative ideas to enhance the campaign’s effectiveness.
• Result: Our cohesive team delivered a well-rounded marketing campaign across social media, print media, and interactive displays, receiving praise for its creativity and strategic approach from peers and professors.
• Reflection: This experience taught me the significance of collaboration, effective communication, and the power of combining individual strengths to achieve a common goal.

Question: Explain how your strengths can be aligned with the vision and mission of Metro Bank.

Good Answer:

Upon studying your company’s vision and mission, I discovered areas where my talents can support your goals:

• Leadership and Strategic Thinking: I align vision with practical strategies, driving growth and operational efficiency by leading cross-functional teams. Such as successfully implementing a new marketing strategy that resulted in a 20% increase in customer engagement.

• Effective Communication and Collaboration: I foster a collaborative and inclusive culture through open communication, building relationships, and promoting teamwork. As demonstrated by my experience leading a team to deliver a high-profile project within a tight deadline.

• Adaptability and Innovation: I thrive in dynamic environments, embracing challenges, exploring new technologies, and improving processes to drive growth and stay competitive. Such as implementing a data-driven approach that optimised operational efficiency and reduced costs by 15%.

• Contributing to Success: By combining my strengths with your vision, I aim to play a pivotal role in driving the organisation’s growth and achieving excellence together.

How to prepare for the Metro Bank Interview

Now, let’s move onto the last key step of your recruitment process: Metro Bank final interview.

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Metro Bank Final Interview

What is the Metro Bank Final Interview?

The Metro Bank final interview is the last stage of the recruitment process, conducted online or in-person with senior executives who assess your compatibility with the organisation’s vision. Interviewers may ask about your career aspirations, commitment to personal and professional growth, and long-term contributions. 

What will the Metro Bank final interview involve?

You should be prepared for situational and hypothetical questions that evaluate problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills. Aim to proactively propose solutions to challenges and showcase your critical thinking and strategic thinking.

5 Top Tips to Pass the Metro Bank Final Interview

1. For a video interview, find a quiet space without any disturbances and with good internet connection. Keep your background clear and professional.
2. Keep a copy of your CV in front of you so that you can explain your past experiences and achievements without missing out on any key points. 
3. Use the STAR+R method to structure your answers to competency-based questions.
4. Show confidence while responding by speaking clearly and with a calm tone of voice. Use subtle hand gestures and keep an upright posture.
5. Stay up-to-date with the banking industry’s news and trends to help you build your answers to use in the interview.

And with this, your Metro Bank application comes to a close! Once you’ve impressed in your final interview, you will shortly receive an offer from the bank.

But wait, before you go!

Keep reading below to discover the range of career opportunities Metro Bank currently offers for freshers and students.

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Metro Bank Entry Roles/Graduates Programmes

The Metro Bank Early Career programme offers a wide range of opportunities for students. Whether for aspiring interns, apprentices, or recent graduates, Metro Bank opens its doors to a diverse pool of enthusiastic individuals ready to begin their path in the dynamic world of banking.

Here are the key opportunity areas you can apply for at Metro Bank: 

Metro Bank Graduate Program

What is the Metro Bank Internship Program?

The Metro Bank’s graduate program is designed to provide structured training and exposure to various aspects of the banking industry. These programs typically last for 12 to 18 months, during which participants gain hands-on experience in their chosen area of specialisation.

Some of the key graduate programs offered by Metro Bank include:

• Retail Banking Graduate Program
• Finance Graduate Program
• Technology Graduate Program
• Risk and Compliance Graduate Program

Metro Bank Internship Program

What is the Metro Bank Internship Program?

The Metro Bank’s immersive internship program caters to undergraduate and graduate students, lasting 8 to 12 weeks in summer, and potentially in spring or fall. Interns work closely with experienced professionals in various bank departments. 
Metro Bank’s internship program offers several benefits:

• Skill development
• Industry exposure
• Networking opportunities
• Mentorship

Metro Bank Apprenticeship

What is the Metro Bank Apprenticeship?

Discover the Metro Bank Apprenticeship, where success is celebrated with a competitive salary, discretionary annual bonus, and a host of enticing benefits, including generous holidays, an attractive pension scheme, healthcare, life assurance, and various colleague discounts.

Other benefits include:

• Metro Bank Training for Success: Metro Bank provides comprehensive training to ensure every apprentice excels in their role. Moreover, internal opportunities abound, with around 40% of recruitment stemming from internal promotions!

• Metro Bank Business Expert Teams: As apprentices join the Business Expert Teams, they are further rewarded with a salary hike, demonstrating Metro Bank’s commitment to career growth and career development.

Check out more answers to some of the most commonly asked questions below about the Metro Bank recruitment process! 

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Metro Bank Recruitment Process FAQs