Describe your experience handling cash and checks in a previous role.

Sample answer to the question

In my previous role, I had the opportunity to handle cash and checks on a daily basis. As a cashier at a retail store, I was responsible for processing customer transactions and ensuring accurate cash management. I would accept cash and checks from customers, provide them with accurate change, and issue receipts for their purchases. Additionally, I would handle any returns or refunds that required cash transactions. Overall, I developed strong attention to detail and the ability to handle transactions accurately and responsibly.

A more solid answer

During my time as a cashier at a busy supermarket, I gained extensive experience handling cash and checks. I was responsible for maintaining a balanced cash drawer, which involved accurately counting and verifying the cash and checks at the beginning and end of each shift. I received cash and checks from customers, processed their transactions using the point-of-sale system, and provided them with accurate change. I also had to handle any issues or discrepancies that arose with cash or checks, ensuring that everything was resolved promptly and accurately. My attention to detail and ability to handle transactions accurately and responsibly helped me excel in this role.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more specific details about the candidate's experience handling cash and checks in a previous role. It demonstrates their ability to maintain a balanced cash drawer, process transactions accurately, and resolve issues or discrepancies. However, it can still be improved by providing more examples or specific achievements related to cash and check handling.

An exceptional answer

In my previous role as a cashier at a high-end boutique, I was trusted with handling significant amounts of cash and processing numerous checks on a daily basis. I implemented a thorough cash management system, which included counting and verifying cash at the start and end of each shift, ensuring the accuracy of transactions throughout the day, and reconciling any discrepancies. I developed strong attention to detail and the ability to quickly identify counterfeit bills or fraudulent checks, which helped protect the store from financial losses. Additionally, I consistently achieved a high level of accuracy in providing change to customers, which led to positive feedback and satisfaction. Overall, my experience handling cash and checks has honed my skills in accuracy, attention to detail, and responsibility.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer provides even more specific details and achievements related to the candidate's experience handling cash and checks in a previous role. It highlights their implementation of a thorough cash management system, ability to identify counterfeit bills or fraudulent checks, and consistent accuracy in providing change to customers. These examples showcase the candidate's exceptional skills and accomplishments in this area.

How to prepare for this question

Review and familiarize yourself with common cash handling procedures
Practice counting and verifying cash and checks to ensure accuracy
Research techniques for identifying counterfeit bills or fraudulent checks
Prepare examples or stories that demonstrate your experience and achievements in cash and check handling
Highlight your ability to maintain a balanced cash drawer and ensure accurate cash management

What interviewers are evaluating

Experience handling cash and checks