JUNIOR LEVEL

How would you rate your written and verbal communication skills?

Sample answer to the question

I would rate my written and verbal communication skills as above average. Throughout my academic and professional experiences, I have honed my ability to effectively communicate complex ideas in a clear and concise manner. For example, during my internship at a financial planning firm, I regularly communicated with clients to gather financial information and explain investment strategies. Additionally, I have experience in producing written reports and presentations that effectively convey financial concepts to both clients and senior advisors.

A more solid answer

I consider my written and verbal communication skills to be strong, which I believe is vital for success as a financial planner. Throughout my academic and professional journey, I have actively worked on improving my communication abilities. For instance, during my finance degree, I regularly participated in group projects that required effective written and verbal communication within the team. Moreover, in my previous role as a financial analyst, I collaborated with cross-functional teams and confidently presented financial reports and recommendations to senior management. These experiences have not only enhanced my ability to articulate complex financial concepts clearly but also reinforced my active listening skills, allowing me to understand clients' needs and concerns.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer expands on the candidate's previous experiences that demonstrate their strong communication skills. It relates the experiences to the job requirements and highlights the importance of effective communication in financial planning. However, it can be further improved by providing more specific examples and incorporating the client relationship management aspect of the job.

An exceptional answer

I would rate my written and verbal communication skills as excellent. I have consistently received positive feedback on my communication abilities throughout my academic and professional journey. For instance, in a client-facing role at my previous firm, I successfully communicated investment strategies to a diverse range of clients, ensuring they understood the risks and benefits involved. Through active listening, I developed a deep understanding of their financial goals and customized my communication approach to align with their needs. Additionally, I have published articles on finance-related topics, further showcasing my strong written communication skills. I believe my ability to empathize, simplify complex information, and tailor my communication style sets me apart and positions me well to excel as a financial planner.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer provides clear and specific examples of the candidate's exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal. It also highlights their ability to customize communication to different audiences and empathize with clients. The examples demonstrate their deep understanding of the importance of effective communication in the financial planning role. However, the answer could still be improved by incorporating the organizational and time management skills required for the position.

How to prepare for this question

Reflect on your previous experiences where you demonstrated strong written and verbal communication skills. Think about specific examples you can share during the interview.
Practice explaining complex financial concepts in a clear and concise manner. Use simple language to ensure your communication is easily understood by non-financial experts.
Research communication techniques and strategies for successful client relationship management. Familiarize yourself with active listening skills and empathetic communication approaches.
Review and revise any written work you may be asked to provide during the interview process, such as a writing sample or a financial planning report. Pay attention to grammar, clarity, and conciseness.
Prepare for potential communication-related scenarios or role-play exercises during the interview. Consider how you would handle difficult conversations or explain complex financial information to clients with different levels of financial literacy.

What interviewers are evaluating

Communication Skills
Experience