New Accounts Representative

New accounts representatives work with clients interested in opening accounts with financial institutions, such as banks or credit unions. These banking professionals are responsible for describing available accounts and explaining the services connected to each type such as the use ATMs, direct deposit and overdraft protection. The new accounts representative may also assist the client with filling out the appropriate paperwork to open an account.

When a client opens an account, the new account representative may conveniently serve as a personal teller for the initial transactions. This representative also connects new clients with other banking professionals for services beyond opening an account. The new accounts representative is responsible for insuring that all of the client’s information is confidentially and effectively recorded electronically.

Duties of a new account representative may include any of the following:

• Greet new clients
• Explain various account options
• Describe the services related to each type of account
• Discuss any limits, requirements or fees associated with an account
• Assist client with new account paperwork
• Insure that all client information is confidential
• Collect initial account deposit and process for client
• Execute wire transfers for funds from other accounts
• Perform foreign currency exchanges
• Order checks and/or debit cards
• Direct client to other banking professionals for additional services.

New Accounts Representative Degrees

Bank employees, other than management, are typically not required to hold a degree. They must have a high school diploma or GED and most banks have a specified training program for these employees.

An associate’s degree in finance or banking, or a bachelor’s degree in accounting or business could make you more employable and eligible for professional advancement.

New Accounts Representative Salary*

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that in 2008, the median hourly wages for a new account representative were $14.47. Full-time banking professionals often receive health and other benefits as part of their salary package.

*Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics