I applied online. The process took 2+ months. I interviewed at Vanguard
Interview
Referred by a friend who is familiar with Vanguard. After submitting resume and online application, had a phone interview within 2 weeks.
Phone interview is easy enough as long as you can be clear about your thoughts and experiences. Must have ability to be calm and professional over the phone while building raport with recruiter.
Will invite you for a recruitment day at a prearranged date. Vanguard pays for transportation, food and lodging.
Had one month after phone interview to prepare.
Interviewed in Valley Forge, PA.
Interview day began in the morning and ended around 2pm (3-4 hours)
Brought to a conference room with 8 other candidates. Began with introduction to Vanguard as a company. Covered history, structure, investment philosophies and positions available. Candidates are asked for questions about company. Must have a few in order to stand out.
Afterwards, met with hiring staff one on one to complete two stages of interviews. My first was the role-playing scenario. I am, personally, comfortable doing this. I would suggest practicing with a friend or mentor beforehand. Presented with a case study and required to use information provided to address a situation with a client. This is done out of character, simply had to verbalize strategy for addressing clients needs within a certain amount of time. Asked also to prioritize several tasks after handling client.
Role playing was easy and casual. Imitated a phone call with another client and given time to read a short story of their situation and how to handle their requests. SHOW EMPATHY!!! If "client" says they are about to be married, be excited for them and congratulate them. If there is a death in the family, show consolation and handle them gently.
The next stage was another one-on-one interview with a different hiring manager. reiterate experiences and what brought you to Vanguard and why you have chosen to interview with them. Asked a dozen or so behavioral questions (STAR Method is imperative). Use specific examples from work/school/sports/what ever. Highlighting interactions with customers and coworkers is also essential.
Finally, all the candidates were brought into a room for a final presentation on benefits, the Vanguard campus and what ways you can get involved with the community.
Vanguard will shuttle you back to the airport/bus station/what ever
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Being able to speak genuinely about why you want to be a part of Vanguard is the most essential thing. Discussing differences between Vanguard and their competitors, what about Vanguard that you find unique and desirable, and having anecdotes that highlight customer service are all essential. If you study STAR method interviewing beforehand, no one of the questions will be difficult or unexpected.
Interview was good, Interviewer provided alot of information containing to the job description and the benefits. They provided STAR example questions to get a better understanding of who I was and what I can possibly offer to the environment
I applied online. The process took 1 week. I interviewed at Vanguard (Charlotte, NC) in Aug 2021
Interview
The interview was a two step process, the phone screen was about 15 mins and they were mainly looking for clarity of your voice and if you are articulate. The virtual 1-on-1 interview was fairly easy, about 6 STAR-based questions regarding customer service, communication skills, and learning agility.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Tell me about a recent time where you had to develop rapport and maintain a relationship with a client or customer?
Role playing situation. Simulated call between customer and you in the role. Asked about interest in role and background. What would make you succeed. Interviewer observed how you handle a phone call