Barclays Graduate Analyst Interview Questions & Experience Guide

Interview Preparation
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21

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Application Process: The application process began with an online application, followed by an invitation to participate in the interview rounds.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Written Math Test:

    • Questions Asked: Basic math questions similar to those found in standard aptitude tests. Topics included arithmetic, algebra, and logical reasoning.
    • Your Approach: I brushed up on basic math concepts and practiced sample aptitude questions beforehand. During the test, I focused on accuracy and time management.
    • Outcome: Passed this round and moved on to the next stage.

  • Round 2 - Group Activity:

    • Questions Asked: This round involved a group task designed to assess teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. The exact activity was a case study discussion.
    • Your Approach: I actively participated, listened to others, and contributed ideas while ensuring the group stayed on track. I also made sure to communicate clearly and respectfully.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round and advanced to the final interview.

  • Round 3 - HR Interview:

    • Questions Asked: The HR round focused on behavioral questions, such as “Tell me about yourself,” “Why Barclays?” and “Describe a time you worked in a team.”
    • Your Approach: I prepared by researching Barclays’ values and aligning my answers with them. I also practiced common behavioral questions and used the STAR method to structure my responses.
    • Outcome: The interview went well, and I received positive feedback.

Preparation Tips:

  • For the math test, practice basic aptitude questions from online resources.
  • For the group activity, focus on teamwork and communication skills. Mock group discussions can help.
  • For the HR round, research the company thoroughly and prepare for behavioral questions using the STAR method.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was well-structured and gave me a chance to showcase my skills. Practicing beforehand and staying calm during the rounds were key. For future candidates, I’d recommend thorough preparation and confidence in your abilities.

22

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Application Process: Applied through campus placement.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Technical Interview:
    • Questions Asked:
      • Questions on Java and SDLC.
      • Questions on design patterns (since Java was mentioned on my resume).
    • Your Approach: Focused on explaining concepts clearly and relating them to practical scenarios. Made sure to highlight my understanding of design patterns and how they apply in real-world projects.
    • Outcome: Passed the round. The interviewer appreciated my clarity and depth of knowledge.

Preparation Tips:

  • Prepare thoroughly on the topics mentioned in your resume.
  • Revise core concepts of Java, SDLC, and design patterns.
  • Practice explaining your projects and how you applied these concepts.

Conclusion:
The interview was a great learning experience. Being well-prepared on the topics I had mentioned in my resume helped me answer confidently. For future candidates, I’d advise focusing on your resume and ensuring you can discuss every detail you’ve included.

23

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process:
I applied online, and after submitting the application, I was automatically directed to an online numbers exam. Scoring sufficiently on this exam unlocked a word reasoning test.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Online Numbers Exam:

  • Questions Asked: Numerical reasoning questions.

  • Your Approach: I practiced with similar numerical reasoning tests beforehand to get comfortable with the format and timing.

  • Outcome: Passed and moved on to the word reasoning test.

  • Round 2 - Word Reasoning Test:

  • Questions Asked: Verbal reasoning and comprehension questions.

  • Your Approach: Focused on reading carefully and managing time efficiently to ensure accuracy.

  • Outcome: Passed and advanced to the interview stage.

  • Round 3 - Interviews:

  • Questions Asked: Three separate interviews covering:

    1. Current market trends and news.
    2. Accounting and finance fundamentals.
    3. Personal and behavioral questions about me.

  • Your Approach: For the market trends, I stayed updated with recent financial news. For accounting/finance, I revised basic concepts. For the personal interview, I prepared examples of my experiences and skills.

  • Outcome: Successfully cleared all interviews.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice numerical and verbal reasoning tests to get comfortable with the format.
  • Stay updated with current market trends, especially in finance.
  • Brush up on basic accounting and finance concepts.
  • Prepare for behavioral questions by reflecting on past experiences and how they align with the role.

Conclusion:
Overall, the process was smooth but required thorough preparation. The key was balancing technical knowledge with personal reflection. For future candidates, I’d recommend starting early and practicing consistently.

24

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Location: Chennai

Application Process: Applied off-campus through an online application process.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Online Assessment:

  • Questions Asked: The round consisted of aptitude questions, logical reasoning, and basic technical questions related to programming and data structures.

  • Your Approach: I focused on solving the aptitude questions first as they were time-bound. For the technical part, I brushed up on basic programming concepts and practiced logical reasoning problems beforehand.

  • Outcome: Cleared this round successfully.

  • Round 2 - Technical Interview:

  • Questions Asked: Questions ranged from data structures (arrays, linked lists) to algorithms (sorting, searching). There were also scenario-based questions to assess problem-solving skills.

  • Your Approach: I explained my thought process clearly while solving the problems and used pseudocode where necessary. I also asked clarifying questions to ensure I understood the problem correctly.

  • Outcome: Passed this round with positive feedback on my problem-solving approach.

  • Round 3 - HR Interview:

  • Questions Asked: Typical HR questions like “Tell me about yourself,” “Why Barclays?” and situational questions like “How do you handle pressure?”

  • Your Approach: I kept my answers concise and aligned them with the role and company values. I also shared examples from my past experiences to support my answers.

  • Outcome: Received an offer after this round.

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on strengthening your basics in data structures and algorithms.
  • Practice aptitude and logical reasoning questions under timed conditions.
  • Be prepared to explain your thought process clearly during technical rounds.
  • Research the company and align your answers with its values during the HR round.

Conclusion:
The interview process was smooth and well-structured. I felt prepared for the technical rounds, but I could have practiced more situational HR questions beforehand. Overall, it was a great learning experience, and I’m excited to start my journey with Barclays!

25

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Application Process: The application process was straightforward. I filled out an online form with my CV and a personal statement. After that, I completed a video interview with twelve questions. Based on my performance, I was invited to an Assessment Centre (AC).

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Video Interview:

    • Questions Asked: The video interview consisted of twelve questions, which were a mix of competency-based and situational questions. Some examples included:
      • “Describe a time when you had to work under pressure.”
      • “How would you handle a disagreement with a team member?”
    • Your Approach: I prepared by reviewing common competency questions and practicing my responses using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). I also ensured I was in a quiet space with good lighting for the video interview.
    • Outcome: I passed this round and was invited to the Assessment Centre.

  • Round 2 - Assessment Centre (AC):

    • Activities: The AC included three strength-based interviews and a group activity. The interviews were conversational and focused on understanding my strengths and how they align with the role. The group activity involved collaborating with other candidates to solve a problem.
    • Your Approach: For the strength-based interviews, I reflected on my past experiences and how they demonstrated my strengths. During the group activity, I made sure to contribute ideas while also listening to others and fostering teamwork.
    • Outcome: The AC was friendly and relaxed, and I felt the company genuinely wanted candidates to feel comfortable to showcase their potential. I received positive feedback and moved forward in the process.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice competency-based questions using the STAR method.
  • Research the company’s values and culture to align your responses.
  • For group activities, focus on collaboration and clear communication.

Conclusion:
Overall, the Barclays interview process was well-structured and candidate-friendly. The key to success was preparation and staying authentic during the interviews. I would advise future candidates to relax and be themselves, as the company values genuine interactions.

26

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: Applied through the company’s online portal. The process included several stages: online tests, a one-way video interview, a phone interview, and a final round at the head office.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Online Business Insight Tests:

    • Questions Asked: Two online tests assessing business insights and analytical skills.
    • Your Approach: Prepared by practicing similar online tests and brushing up on business concepts.
    • Outcome: Cleared the tests and moved to the next round.

  • Round 2 - One-Way Video Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Behavioral and situational questions, such as “Describe a time you worked in a team” and “How do you handle deadlines?”
    • Your Approach: Practiced common behavioral questions and recorded mock video responses to improve clarity and confidence.
    • Outcome: Successfully passed and advanced to the phone interview.

  • Round 3 - Phone Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Competency-based questions, like “Tell me about a challenge you faced and how you resolved it.”
    • Your Approach: Focused on structuring answers using the STAR method to ensure clarity and relevance.
    • Outcome: Cleared the round and was invited to the final stage.

  • Round 4 - Mock Business Meeting & Interview:

    • Questions Asked: The mock meeting involved analyzing a business scenario and answering potential questions. The interview included behavioral and competency questions.
    • Your Approach: Prepared by reviewing business case studies and practicing mock meetings with peers. For the interview, relied on the STAR method again.
    • Outcome: Found the meeting challenging due to the volume of information, but managed to perform well in the interview.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice online business insight tests to get comfortable with the format.
  • Record mock video interviews to improve your delivery and confidence.
  • Use the STAR method for competency-based questions to structure your answers effectively.
  • Review business case studies to prepare for mock meetings or group discussions.

Conclusion:
Overall, the process was rigorous but well-structured. The mock business meeting was the toughest part, so I’d advise future candidates to focus on handling large amounts of information under pressure. Practicing behavioral questions and business scenarios thoroughly will definitely help. Good luck!

27

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Location: On-campus

Application Process: Applied through on-campus placement. The process began with a test followed by interviews.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Online Test:

  • Questions Asked:

    • A diverse set of MCQs to test technical knowledge.
    • 2 coding questions.

  • Your Approach: Focused on accuracy for the MCQs and ensured the coding solutions were efficient and well-structured.

  • Outcome: Cleared the round and moved to the interview stage.

  • Round 2 - Interview (Conversational):

  • Questions Asked:

    • Questions about my thought process and problem-solving approach.
    • Questions about my values and who I am as a person.
    • Some technical questions to assess my knowledge.

  • Your Approach: Tried to be authentic and articulate my thought process clearly. For technical questions, I explained my reasoning step-by-step.

  • Outcome: The interviewer seemed satisfied with my responses, and the conversation flowed naturally.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on core technical concepts as the MCQs can be diverse.
  • Practice coding problems to ensure efficiency and clarity in solutions.
  • Be prepared to discuss your thought process and values, as the interview is more conversational.

Conclusion:
The overall experience was positive. The interviewers were more interested in understanding my thought process and personality, which made the interaction less stressful. I could have prepared more for the technical MCQs, but the conversational nature of the interview helped me showcase my strengths. For future candidates, I’d advise being genuine and ready to discuss both technical and personal aspects.

28

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Application Process: Applied through campus placement. The process included an Online Assessment round followed by a combined Technical and HR interview.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Online Assessment:

    • Questions Asked: The OA consisted of basic coding problems and logical reasoning questions.
    • Your Approach: Focused on solving the problems efficiently and ensuring code readability.
    • Outcome: Cleared the round and moved to the next stage.

  • Round 2 - Technical + HR Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Simple OOP concepts (e.g., inheritance, polymorphism).
      • Basic DSA questions (e.g., array manipulation, searching algorithms).
      • OS fundamentals (e.g., processes, threads).
      • HR questions like “Tell me about yourself” and “Why Barclays?”.
    • Your Approach:
      • Explained OOP concepts with real-world examples.
      • Solved DSA questions step-by-step, discussing the approach first.
      • Kept answers concise for OS questions.
      • For HR questions, highlighted my enthusiasm for the role and company.
    • Outcome: The interviewers emphasized communication skills, and I was selected for the role.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on basic OOP and DSA concepts.
  • Practice explaining your thought process clearly.
  • Prepare for common HR questions to articulate your motivation well.

Conclusion:
The interview process was smooth, and the focus on communication skills was a key takeaway. While technical knowledge is important, being able to articulate your thoughts clearly can make a big difference. For future candidates, I’d recommend balancing technical prep with communication practice.

29

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: Applied through campus placement. The process included one written round and two rounds of in-person interviews.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Written Round:

    • Questions Asked: The written round primarily tested logical skills.
    • Your Approach: Focused on solving logical puzzles and reasoning questions systematically. Practiced similar problems beforehand to build speed and accuracy.
    • Outcome: Cleared the round successfully.

  • Round 2 - In-Person Interview (Technical/Behavioral):

    • Questions Asked: Details of specific questions not provided. Likely a mix of technical and behavioral questions.
    • Your Approach: Prepared by revising core technical concepts relevant to the role and practiced answering behavioral questions using the STAR method.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the final round.

  • Round 3 - Value Round:

    • Questions Asked: The round focused on assessing alignment with Barclays’ core values. Questions likely revolved around teamwork, integrity, and problem-solving.
    • Your Approach: Ensured responses reflected Barclays’ values by providing examples from past experiences that demonstrated these traits.
    • Outcome: Awaiting results.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice logical reasoning and puzzles for the written round.
  • Brush up on technical fundamentals relevant to the role.
  • Prepare for behavioral questions using the STAR method.
  • Research Barclays’ core values and align your responses accordingly.

Conclusion:
The interview process was structured and focused on both technical skills and cultural fit. Preparing for logical reasoning and aligning responses with company values were key. Would recommend future candidates to focus on these aspects.

30

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: The application process involved three main steps: a virtual assessment, a video/virtual interview, and finally, the Super Day, where candidates are interviewed by one or two senior members of the firm.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Virtual Assessment:

  • Questions Asked: The virtual assessment included a mix of aptitude tests, situational judgment tests, and personality assessments. The questions were designed to evaluate problem-solving skills, decision-making abilities, and cultural fit.

  • Your Approach: I took my time to read each question carefully and answered honestly, especially in the situational judgment section, where I tried to align my responses with Barclays’ values.

  • Outcome: Successfully passed this round and moved on to the next stage.

  • Round 2 - Video/Virtual Interview:

  • Questions Asked: This round was more conversational, with questions about my background, motivation for applying to Barclays, and situational questions like “Describe a time you worked in a team.”

  • Your Approach: I prepared by researching Barclays’ culture and recent news, which helped me tailor my answers. For situational questions, I used the STAR method to structure my responses clearly.

  • Outcome: Advanced to the Super Day round.

  • Round 3 - Super Day Interview:

  • Questions Asked: The senior members asked technical questions related to finance and banking, as well as behavioral questions like “How do you handle pressure?” and “What do you know about Barclays’ recent projects?”

  • Your Approach: I brushed up on basic financial concepts and Barclays’ recent initiatives beforehand. For behavioral questions, I focused on providing concise, relevant examples from my past experiences.

  • Outcome: Awaiting results, but felt confident about my performance.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research the company thoroughly, including its values, recent news, and projects.
  • Practice the STAR method for behavioral questions.
  • Brush up on basic financial concepts if applying for a finance-related role.
  • Take mock aptitude tests to get comfortable with the virtual assessment format.

Conclusion:
Overall, the process was well-structured and gave me a good insight into Barclays’ work culture. I could have prepared more for the technical questions in the Super Day round, but I’m happy with how I handled the behavioral aspects. My advice to future candidates is to stay calm, be yourself, and ensure your answers reflect the company’s values.

31

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: The application process was straightforward. I applied through the company’s career portal after coming across the job posting. The initial screening was followed by an invitation to the interview rounds.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - HR Interview:

    • Questions Asked: The interviewer asked about my background, why I wanted to join Barclays, and how my skills align with the Graduate Analyst role. They also inquired about my understanding of Barclays’ mission and vision.
    • Your Approach: I focused on being genuine and highlighted my passion for the financial sector. I also made sure to research Barclays’ mission and vision beforehand to align my answers with their values.
    • Outcome: I passed this round and received positive feedback about my enthusiasm and preparation.

  • Round 2 - Technical Interview:

    • Questions Asked: This round involved questions related to financial concepts, problem-solving scenarios, and a few case studies. The interviewer also asked about my analytical skills and how I handle pressure.
    • Your Approach: I tackled the technical questions by breaking them down into smaller parts and explaining my thought process clearly. For the case studies, I focused on logical reasoning and practical solutions.
    • Outcome: I advanced to the next round after demonstrating my technical and analytical abilities.

  • Round 3 - Final Interview (Panel):

    • Questions Asked: This was a panel interview with senior team members. They asked behavioral questions, situational judgment questions, and how I would contribute to the team.
    • Your Approach: I remained calm and confident, using the STAR method for behavioral questions. I also emphasized teamwork and adaptability.
    • Outcome: I successfully cleared this round and was offered the position.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research Barclays’ mission, vision, and the specific job profile thoroughly.
  • Practice case studies and technical questions related to finance and analytics.
  • Be authentic and showcase your true potential rather than focusing solely on academic marks.

Conclusion:
The entire interview process was insightful and well-structured. Barclays values talent and potential, so it’s important to be genuine and confident. My advice to future candidates is to prepare well but also stay true to yourself. Good luck!

32

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Location: [Location not provided]

Application Process: [Application process details not provided]

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - HR Interview:
    • Questions Asked:
      • Basic questions about hometown and family.
      • Interest in pursuing a finance career.
      • Willingness to work hard and learn finance.
    • Your Approach:
      • Answered honestly about personal background.
      • Expressed genuine interest in finance and willingness to put in the effort to learn.
    • Outcome: The interview experience was described as “OK.”

Preparation Tips:

  • Be prepared to discuss your interest in finance and your long-term career goals.
  • Practice answering basic HR questions about your background and motivations.

Conclusion:
The interview was straightforward, focusing on assessing my interest and commitment to a finance career. While the experience was decent, I could have prepared more specific examples to demonstrate my enthusiasm for the role.

33

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: The application process began with a pre-placement talk where Barclays impressed me with their transparency and clarity. They provided a comprehensive overview of the company in just 10 minutes, which was one of the best presentations among all the companies that visited our campus.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - [Not specified]:
  • Questions Asked: [No specific questions mentioned]
  • Your Approach: [No specific approach mentioned]
  • Outcome: [No outcome mentioned]

Preparation Tips:
[No preparation tips provided]

Conclusion:
The overall experience was great, especially the pre-placement talk, which stood out for its clarity and transparency. While the interview rounds were not detailed in the provided data, the initial interaction with Barclays left a very positive impression.

34

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Application Process: Applied through campus placement.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Resume Screening/Technical Interview:
    • Questions Asked: The interviewer did not ask any questions related to my resume or technical topics. Instead, they were googling questions during the interview.
    • Your Approach: I tried to stay professional and answer whatever questions were asked, but it was challenging as the interviewer seemed unprepared and unfamiliar with my domain.
    • Outcome: The round did not go well due to the interviewer’s lack of preparation and domain mismatch.

Conclusion:
The overall experience was disappointing as the interviewer was not well-prepared and failed to assess my skills or experience properly. For future candidates, I would recommend researching the interview process beforehand and being prepared for unexpected situations like this. Despite the challenges, staying calm and professional is key.

35

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Application Process: The application process involved submitting an online application followed by a series of interview rounds. The final stage was a business meeting.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Business Meeting:
    • Questions Asked:
      • A short case study (prepared in advance).
      • Competency-based questions related to teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership.
    • Your Approach:
      • For the case study, I researched the company’s recent trends and prepared a structured analysis.
      • For the competency questions, I used the STAR method to provide clear and concise answers.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared the round and received positive feedback on my preparation and communication skills.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research the company’s business model and recent news to tailor your case study.
  • Practice competency questions using the STAR method to ensure clarity and relevance.

Conclusion:
The overall experience was insightful and challenging. Preparing thoroughly for the case study and practicing competency questions helped me perform well. I would advise future candidates to focus on understanding the company’s values and aligning their responses accordingly.

36

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Location: London, England

Application Process: I applied online, and the entire process took around 2 months. The interview took place in September.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Written Math Test:

    • Questions Asked: Basic math questions similar to those found in standard aptitude tests.
    • Your Approach: I brushed up on my quantitative skills beforehand, focusing on arithmetic, algebra, and problem-solving techniques.
    • Outcome: I passed this round and moved on to the next stage.

  • Round 2 - Group Activity:

    • Questions Asked: This round assessed teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills through a group task.
    • Your Approach: I actively participated, listened to others, and contributed ideas while ensuring the team stayed on track.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round and advanced to the final stage.

  • Round 3 - HR Interview:

    • Questions Asked: General HR questions about my background, motivations, and fit for the role and company culture.
    • Your Approach: I prepared by researching Barclays’ values and aligning my answers to demonstrate my enthusiasm and suitability for the role.
    • Outcome: The interview went well, and I received positive feedback.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice basic math and aptitude questions to ace the written test.
  • Work on teamwork and communication skills for the group activity.
  • Research the company thoroughly to align your answers with their values during the HR interview.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth and well-structured. I felt prepared for each round, but I could have practiced more teamwork scenarios to feel even more confident during the group activity. My advice for future candidates is to stay calm, be yourself, and prepare thoroughly for each stage of the process.

37

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Application Process: The application process for Barclays started with a video interview, followed by online tests. After clearing these initial stages, I moved on to technical phone interviews and face-to-face interactions. The final stage was an assessment centre, which included a case study presentation and two back-to-back interviews with senior members of Barclays.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Video Interview:

    • Questions Asked: The video interview consisted of behavioral questions like “Tell me about a time you worked in a team,” “Describe a challenging situation you faced,” and “Why do you want to work at Barclays?”
    • Your Approach: I prepared by researching Barclays’ values and aligning my answers with their culture. I used the STAR method to structure my responses.
    • Outcome: I passed this round and moved on to the online tests.

  • Round 2 - Online Tests:

    • Questions Asked: The tests included numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, and situational judgment tests.
    • Your Approach: I practiced with similar online tests beforehand to get comfortable with the format and timing.
    • Outcome: I cleared the tests and was invited for the technical phone interview.

  • Round 3 - Technical Phone Interview:

    • Questions Asked: The interviewer asked technical questions related to finance, problem-solving, and basic coding (depending on the role).
    • Your Approach: I revised core finance concepts and practiced coding problems to ensure I was well-prepared.
    • Outcome: I passed this round and was scheduled for the face-to-face interview.

  • Round 4 - Face-to-Face Interview:

    • Questions Asked: This round was a mix of technical and behavioral questions. Some examples include “How would you handle a conflict in a team?” and “Explain a financial concept you find interesting.”
    • Your Approach: I focused on being concise and clear in my answers, using real-life examples where possible.
    • Outcome: I advanced to the final assessment centre.

  • Round 5 - Assessment Centre:

    • Questions Asked: The assessment centre included a case study presentation and two interviews with senior Barclays members. The case study was about a business scenario, and the interviews covered both technical and behavioral aspects.
    • Your Approach: For the case study, I structured my analysis clearly and practiced presenting under time constraints. For the interviews, I emphasized my problem-solving skills and alignment with Barclays’ values.
    • Outcome: I successfully completed the assessment centre and received an offer.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice the STAR method for behavioral questions.
  • Take mock online tests to get familiar with the format.
  • Brush up on technical concepts relevant to the role.
  • Research Barclays’ culture and values to tailor your answers.

Conclusion:
Overall, the process was rigorous but well-structured. I felt prepared for each stage, but I could have practiced more case studies beforehand. My advice to future candidates is to start early, stay organized, and be confident in your abilities!

38

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Application Process: The application process began with an online application, followed by an invitation to participate in the interview rounds.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Coding Round:

    • Questions Asked: The round included fairly easy algorithm problems and a few quantitative analysis questions.
    • Your Approach: I focused on solving the algorithm problems efficiently and double-checked my quantitative answers for accuracy.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round.

  • Round 2 - Group Activity:

    • Questions Asked: We were tasked with arranging a pack of cards into a house in a group of 5.
    • Your Approach: I actively participated, communicated ideas clearly, and ensured collaboration within the group.
    • Outcome: The group worked well together, and I advanced to the next round.

  • Round 3 - Technical Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Basic questions from Algorithms, Data Structures, and Databases.
    • Your Approach: I revised core concepts beforehand and explained my thought process clearly for each question.
    • Outcome: Cleared the technical round.

  • Round 4 - HR Interview:

    • Questions Asked: “Why do you want to work at Barclays?”
    • Your Approach: I highlighted my interest in the financial sector and how my skills align with Barclays’ values.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared the HR round.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on basic algorithms and data structures.
  • Practice quantitative analysis questions.
  • Be prepared for group activities by improving communication and teamwork skills.
  • Research the company thoroughly for HR questions.

Conclusion:
The overall experience was smooth and well-structured. I felt prepared for each round, but practicing more group activities beforehand would have been beneficial. My advice to future candidates is to stay calm, communicate clearly, and thoroughly research the company.

39

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Application Process: The application process involved submitting an online application followed by an interview invitation.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Technical and HR Interview:

    • Questions Asked: The round included a mix of technical questions related to the role and general HR questions. The technical questions were focused on assessing foundational knowledge relevant to the Graduate Analyst position. The HR questions aimed to understand my motivation, strengths, and fit for the role.
    • Your Approach: I answered the technical questions to the best of my ability, ensuring clarity and relevance. For the HR questions, I focused on aligning my responses with the company’s values and the role’s requirements.
    • Outcome: The interviewer was polite, and the round went smoothly without any cross-questioning. My answers were evaluated based on their checklist.

  • Round 2 - HR Interview:

    • Questions Asked: This round was entirely focused on HR questions, delving deeper into my personality, work ethic, and cultural fit within Barclays.
    • Your Approach: I maintained a conversational tone, providing honest and thoughtful answers while emphasizing my enthusiasm for the role and the company.
    • Outcome: Similar to the first round, the interviewer was courteous, and the evaluation was based on their predefined criteria.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on foundational technical concepts relevant to the role.
  • Practice answering common HR questions to articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently.
  • Research Barclays’ values and culture to tailor your responses accordingly.

Conclusion:
The overall interview experience was positive, with a structured and polite interaction. The lack of cross-questioning made it feel more like a checklist-based evaluation. For future candidates, I’d recommend focusing on clarity in answers and aligning responses with the company’s expectations.

40

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Application Process: The hiring process was very smooth. I applied through the company’s career portal, and the entire process was well-organized.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Coding Round:

    • Questions Asked: The coding round consisted of a few algorithmic problems that tested my problem-solving skills and coding efficiency.
    • Your Approach: I focused on writing clean and optimized code, ensuring I covered edge cases and explained my thought process clearly.
    • Outcome: I passed this round and was invited for the next interview.

  • Round 2 - Technical + HR Interview:

    • Questions Asked: This round was a mix of technical questions related to data structures and algorithms, as well as behavioral questions like “Tell me about yourself” and “Why Barclays?”.
    • Your Approach: For the technical part, I explained my solutions step-by-step and discussed trade-offs. For the HR part, I highlighted my passion for the role and my alignment with Barclays’ values.
    • Outcome: The interviewer was very friendly, and I felt confident about my performance. I received positive feedback and moved forward in the process.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice coding problems on platforms like LeetCode and HackerRank to improve problem-solving speed.
  • Brush up on core computer science concepts, especially data structures and algorithms.
  • Prepare for behavioral questions by reflecting on past experiences and aligning them with the company’s values.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview experience with Barclays was positive and well-structured. The interviewer was supportive, and the questions were fair. I would advise future candidates to stay calm, be thorough in their preparation, and communicate clearly during the interview.