The Bittersweet Truth: Preparing for and Experiencing a Banking PO Exam

When facing the decision to prepare for the Banking PO (Public Officer) exam, it's important to be well-informed about the realities of the job. While the banking sector offers high salaries and allowances, it isn't the easiest path. Here, I share my experience and insights, aiming to help new aspirants make the right decision.

A Disheartening Reality

Both as a former software engineer and now as someone who has experienced the banking job firsthand, I must be frank. The life of a Bank PO is not what you might imagine it to be. Despite the high salaries and perks, it comes with a heavy dose of challenges.

Disclaimer: This article is meant to guide, not discourage. Be fully aware of what you’re stepping into.

A Background into the Decision

With a B.E. in hand and a stint at a software MNC under my belt, I was enticed by the idea of serving the public. However, the decision to switch from a tech job to banking was made with careful consideration. Banks often take 6 to 8 months to complete their recruitment process, making it feasible to prepare alongside my job. After 4 years, I decided to take the plunge.

Preparation and Early Success

I began preparing in April 2021, devoting my evenings to exams. In October 2021, I cleared all prelims. When it came to the mains exam, I had to quit my job to focus fully. In April 2022, a year from the start, I cleared 3 exams in a row, including IBPS PO, despite the intense competition.

From Preparation to Position

I was excited about the prospect of joining a top PSB after clearing the interview and scoring one of the highest marks. After a two-month training program, I was assigned to a branch over 300 km from my home. However, the position came with its challenges.

Realities of the Banking Job

The banking sector cannot be considered a service sector in the traditional sense. High targets, stress, and long working hours are part of the daily routine. Customers are often undervalued, and the emphasis is placed on meeting targets rather than providing quality service.

Unmanageable Targets and Pressure

Every morning starts with targets that can be overwhelming. Tasks like opening new savings accounts daily and processing various types of deposits and loans are part of the job. The pressure to meet these targets is constant, often leading to dissatisfaction and stress. The impact of underperforming is visible in the form of disciplinary actions or constant scrutiny from superiors.

Customer Interaction and Service Delivery

While serving a significant number of customers each day can be fulfilling, it can also be challenging. Managing diverse customer moods and providing timely service are essential. However, these efforts are often overshadowed by the daily targets. Unsatisfactory service due to failure to meet targets or issues with ATM machines and card services can lead to customer complaints.

Work-Life Balance and Flexibility

The demanding nature of the job makes it difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Overtime, constant pressure, and limited personal leave can lead to burnout. Crises like system failures during festive periods or safety issues requiring immediate attention can disrupt personal time significantly.

Resignation and Future Directions

After 8 months in the role, I decided to quit, citing the high pressure and lack of job satisfaction. Another friend who prepared with me stuck around and still works in the same branch. A friend who cleared ESIC UDC is content with his role in the government.

While this journey has been challenging, it's crucial to understand these realities before stepping into the world of banking. It's important to weigh the pros and cons to decide if a job in the banking sector is the right choice.

Final Thoughts

As I reflect on this experience, I hope to revisit this article in a year or two with a new job profile or more experiences to share. In the meantime, I encourage new aspirants to do their due diligence and consider the details before making a career move.