A personal banker is an employee who works in the department of financial banking and greatly aims to help new as well as existing customers to open new accounts at the banks. These specialists interact with customers and manage day-to-day queries related to their respective bank accounts. Personal bankers are skilled in supporting their clients and possess good decision-making and strong analytical skills.  

Such employees are also responsible for introducing and marketing the new banking products to the customers and providing them with explanations about the benefits. Most personal bankers work within banks for full-time or 40 hours per week depending on their roles and responsibilities. They may also need to work extra hours during hectic schedules. 

Moreover, these professionals often collaborate with cross-functional teams within the bank, such as loan officers, investment advisors and mortgage specialists, to provide comprehensive financial solutions. They act as a liaison between customers and various bank departments, facilitating seamless communication and efficient resolution of customer concerns.

To excel in their roles, Personal Bankers continuously enhance their knowledge of financial products, industry regulations, and advancements in banking technology. They may undergo training programs and workshops to stay updated with the latest developments, enabling them to offer innovative solutions and better guidance to clients.

For Bachelor’s

• Candidates must score a minimum of 50-60% marks in their secondary board level examination with a focus on commerce subjects. 
• A bachelor's degree in finance, economics, business administration, banking or a related field is typically required.

For Master’s 

• Pursuing a relevant master's degree such as a Master of Business Administration(MBA) can enhance career prospects and open doors to higher-level positions within the banking industry.
• Specialisations in finance, banking or related fields can further augment your knowledge and expertise in the domain.

For Internships

• Internships during or after completing your bachelor's or master's degree can be immensely beneficial in gaining practical experience and exposure to the banking industry.
• Gaining certifications related to banking and finance, such as Certified Personal Banker (CPB) or similar credentials offered by relevant professional organisations, can also enhance your credentials and job prospects in the banking sector. 

The role of a Personal Banker involves a wide range of responsibilities aimed at providing exceptional service to bank customers and assisting them in managing their finances effectively. Here are the key job roles and responsibilities of a Personal Banker:

Customer Relationship Management

• Account Management
• Financial Consultation
• Sales and Product Promotion
• Customer Service and Issue Resolution
• Documentation and Compliance
• Cross-functional Collaboration
• Technology Utilisation
• Sales Reporting and Analysis
• Educational Workshops and Seminars
• Risk Management

Moreover, a successful Personal Banker effectively balances sales targets, customer satisfaction and compliance requirements while continuously enhancing their financial knowledge and skills to deliver superior service to customers.

In India, the banking sector is vast and diverse, providing numerous opportunities for Personal Banker roles. Here are some top recruiters for Personal Banker positions in India:

• State Bank of India (SBI)
• ICICI Bank
• HDFC Bank
• Axis Bank
• Kotak Mahindra Bank
• IDFC First Bank
• Federal Bank
• YES Bank
• Punjab National Bank (PNB)
• Canara Bank
• Bank of Baroda
• Standard Chartered Bank

Additionally, networking, attending career fairs and utilising professional networking platforms like LinkedIn can aid in connecting with recruiters and accessing job opportunities in the banking sector.

Salaries for Personal Bankers in India can vary based on factors such as the location of the bank, the reputation and size of the bank, the candidate's qualifications, and the level of experience. Here's an approximate salary range for Personal Bankers in India at different career stages:

• Customer Service Skills
• Communication Skills
• Interpersonal Skills
• Sales and Marketing Skills
• Financial Knowledge
• Problem-Solving Skills
• Analytical Skills
• Time Management and Organisation
• Ethical Conduct
• Networking and Relationship Building

The career scope for a Personal Banker is extensive, offering a pathway for growth within the banking and financial industry. Starting as a Personal Banker, you can advance to roles like Senior Personal Banker or Relationship Manager, where you handle more complex client portfolios and financial services. 

Beyond that, managerial positions like Branch Manager or Assistant Branch Manager become attainable, allowing you to oversee a team or an entire branch's operations. With additional training and specialisation, opportunities open up in wealth management, investment banking and mortgage advisory. Moreover, your expertise can lead to roles as a financial consultant, providing tailored financial guidance to clients.

• Career Growth and Advancement
• Job Security
• Skill Development
• Financial Knowledge
• Networking Opportunities

• Sales Pressure
• Long Working Hours
• Customer Handling Challenges
• Regulatory Changes and Compliance
• High Responsibility and Accountability