Barclays Graduate Analyst Interview Questions & Experience Guide

Interview Preparation
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41

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Application Process: I filled out an online application form that required details about my grades, experiences, and responses to open-ended questions like “Why are you applying for this role?” and “What recent development do you know in the industry?” I also had to describe my greatest achievement and an example of a successful relationship. After submitting the application, I was invited to take a numerical test, followed by a verbal test. Nearly three months later, I received an invitation for a phone interview.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Online Application & Tests:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Why are you applying for this role?
      • What recent development do you know in the industry?
      • Describe your greatest achievement.
      • Provide an example of a successful relationship.
    • Your Approach: I answered the open-ended questions honestly, focusing on my genuine interest in the role and industry. For the tests, I practiced numerical and verbal reasoning questions beforehand to ensure I was prepared.
    • Outcome: Passed and moved to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Phone Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Tell me about your team experiences, especially when you were a leader.
      • What exactly did you do in your leadership role?
      • Have you ever had to prove something or state an opinion against the majority?
      • What do you know about the CFA?
    • Your Approach: I shared specific examples from my past experiences, emphasizing my leadership skills and ability to stand by my convictions. I also brushed up on my knowledge of the CFA to answer confidently.
    • Outcome: Received the results after a month; the process was slow.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice numerical and verbal reasoning tests to prepare for the initial screening.
  • Reflect on your past experiences, especially leadership roles, and be ready to discuss them in detail.
  • Stay updated on industry developments and familiarize yourself with relevant certifications like the CFA.

Conclusion:
The overall process was thorough but slow, especially the waiting time between rounds. I found the phone interview to be the most challenging, as it required detailed examples of my experiences. If I could do anything differently, I would prepare more thoroughly for the CFA-related questions. My advice to future candidates is to be patient and ensure you have clear, concise examples ready for competency-based questions.

42

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Location: On Campus Recruitment Drive

Application Process: The process was an On Campus Recruitment Drive. Around 150 candidates were shortlisted for the second round of interviews, and approximately 20 received offers.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Online Coding Test:

    • Questions Asked: The test included coding problems focused on data structures and algorithms. The difficulty level was moderate, with questions ranging from arrays and strings to dynamic programming.
    • Your Approach: I practiced extensively on platforms like LeetCode and HackerRank, focusing on problem-solving under time constraints. I made sure to optimize my solutions for efficiency.
    • Outcome: I was among the 150 candidates shortlisted for the next round.

  • Round 2 - Technical + HR Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Technical: Questions on core computer science topics like OOPs, DBMS, and system design. I was also asked to explain my approach to solving a problem from the coding round.
      • HR: Behavioral questions like “Tell me about yourself,” “Why Barclays?” and “Describe a challenging situation you faced and how you handled it.”
    • Your Approach: For the technical part, I revised fundamental concepts and practiced explaining my thought process clearly. For HR, I prepared answers to common behavioral questions and linked them to my experiences.
    • Outcome: I performed well in both the technical and HR sections and received an offer.

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on coding practice, especially on data structures and algorithms.
  • Revise core CS subjects like OOPs, DBMS, and system design.
  • Prepare for behavioral questions by reflecting on past experiences and aligning them with the company’s values.

Conclusion:
The overall experience was smooth and well-organized. The key to success was thorough preparation and staying calm during the interviews. For future candidates, I’d recommend practicing coding under timed conditions and being ready to articulate your thought process clearly.

43

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: The process involved detailed online applications, followed by numerical and verbal reasoning tests. After clearing these, I had an interview with two people, and then an assessment day. The entire process required a lot of effort, but the people I interacted with were very nice and helpful.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Online Application & Reasoning Tests:

    • Questions Asked: The online application was detailed, followed by numerical and verbal reasoning tests. The numerical tests included questions on FX rates, percentage changes, and speed of calculations.
    • Your Approach: I made sure to brush up on my maths skills, especially focusing on FX rates and percentage changes. Practicing speed calculations also helped.
    • Outcome: Cleared this round and moved to the next stage.

  • Round 2 - Interview with Two People:

    • Questions Asked: The interviewers asked about my background, motivation for applying, and some situational questions.
    • Your Approach: I prepared by researching Barclays and aligning my answers with the company’s values and the role’s requirements.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round and was invited to the assessment day.

  • Round 3 - Assessment Day:

    • Questions Asked: The assessment day included group activities, presentations, and further interviews.
    • Your Approach: I focused on teamwork during group activities and ensured my presentation was clear and concise.
    • Outcome: Unfortunately, I wasn’t offered the position, but I gained valuable experience.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on maths skills, especially FX rates, percentage changes, and speed calculations.
  • Research the company thoroughly to align your answers with their values.
  • Practice situational and behavioral questions for interviews.

Conclusion:
Overall, the process was rigorous but rewarding. The people at Barclays were very supportive, and I would definitely consider reapplying in the future. For future candidates, I’d recommend putting in the effort to prepare thoroughly, especially for the numerical tests and interviews.

44

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: The application process included an application essay and an online aptitude test. The aptitude test was straightforward, focusing on analysis and pattern recognition, similar to widely available online tests.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Phone Interview:

    • Questions Asked: The interview was conducted by an external vendor and included 3-5 structured questions. These covered knowledge of Barclays as a business, the specific role applied for, and the reasons for applying. There was also a situational question requiring analytical thinking and a structured response.
    • Your Approach: I prepared by researching Barclays, understanding the role, and practicing situational responses. I ensured my answers were concise and aligned with the company’s values.
    • Outcome: Successfully passed this round and was invited to the assessment centre.

  • Round 2 - Assessment Centre:

    • Activities: The assessment centre was a full-day event with around 10 candidates. It included:
      1. Interview with Line Manager: A deeper dive into my skills, experiences, and fit for the role.
      2. Individual Case Study Analysis and Presentation: A case study to analyze and present individually.
      3. Team Case Study Analysis and Presentation: A collaborative case study with other candidates.
      4. Repeat Aptitude Test: A re-test of the initial aptitude assessment.
    • Your Approach: For the case studies, I focused on structuring my analysis clearly and presenting confidently. During the team exercise, I ensured active participation and collaboration. For the aptitude test, I relied on my initial preparation.
    • Outcome: Results were expected within two weeks.

Preparation Tips:

  • Research Barclays thoroughly, including its business model, values, and recent news.
  • Practice aptitude tests, especially those focusing on analysis and pattern recognition.
  • Prepare for situational questions by thinking of past experiences where you demonstrated analytical skills.
  • For case studies, practice structuring your thoughts and presenting them clearly.

Conclusion:
The process was well-structured and gave a comprehensive view of the role. The phone interview was a good warm-up, while the assessment centre was intense but rewarding. I could have practiced more case studies beforehand to feel even more confident. My advice for future candidates is to prepare thoroughly for each stage and stay calm during the assessment centre—it’s as much about teamwork as it is about individual performance.

45

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Application Process: Applied through campus placement. The process included a written test, group discussion, technical HR round, and general HR round.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Written Test:

    • Questions Asked: General aptitude, logical reasoning, and basic technical questions.
    • Your Approach: Focused on accuracy and time management. Practiced previous year’s papers to get familiar with the pattern.
    • Outcome: Cleared the round successfully.

  • Round 2 - Group Discussion:

    • Questions Asked: Topics related to current affairs and industry trends.
    • Your Approach: Ensured active participation while maintaining clarity and relevance. Listened to others and built on their points.
    • Outcome: Selected for the next round.

  • Round 3 - Technical HR Round:

    • Questions Asked: Technical questions related to my field of study, problem-solving scenarios, and situational questions.
    • Your Approach: Answered confidently, linked my knowledge to real-world applications, and emphasized my problem-solving skills.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the final HR round.

  • Round 4 - General HR Round:

    • Questions Asked: Behavioral questions, motivation for joining Barclays, alignment with the company’s motto “Rise”.
    • Your Approach: Highlighted my enthusiasm for the role, how my values align with Barclays’ motto, and shared relevant experiences.
    • Outcome: Received positive feedback and cleared the round.

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on improving communication and articulation skills.
  • Research the company thoroughly, especially its motto and values.
  • Practice group discussions on diverse topics.
  • Revise technical concepts and be ready to apply them practically.

Conclusion:
The interview process was smooth and well-structured. The emphasis on communication and alignment with the company’s values was a key takeaway. I could have prepared more situational responses for the HR round. My advice to future candidates is to be authentic and showcase how you resonate with Barclays’ motto “Rise”.

46

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Application Process: The application process began with an online assessment, followed by an on-campus interview round. The online assessment was a medium-level test that included a coding question on strings and some input-output questions. The interview round was conducted on-campus, and the experience varied depending on the interviewer.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Online Assessment:

    • Questions Asked:
      • A medium-level coding question related to strings.
      • Input-output questions to test logical reasoning.
    • Your Approach:
      • For the coding question, I focused on breaking down the problem into smaller parts and used string manipulation techniques to solve it.
      • For the input-output questions, I carefully analyzed the patterns and applied logical reasoning.
    • Outcome: Cleared the online assessment and proceeded to the interview round.

  • Round 2 - On-Campus Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • The questions varied widely depending on the interviewer. Some candidates faced technical questions, while others had more behavioral or situational questions.
    • Your Approach:
      • I prepared for both technical and behavioral questions. For technical questions, I revised core concepts and practiced problem-solving. For behavioral questions, I reflected on my past experiences to answer confidently.
    • Outcome: The interview experience was highly dependent on the interviewer, and the outcome varied for different candidates.

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on medium-level coding problems, especially those involving strings and logical reasoning.
  • Be prepared for both technical and behavioral questions, as the interview can go in any direction.
  • Practice explaining your thought process clearly, as communication is key during interviews.

Conclusion:
Overall, the Barclays interview process was a mix of technical and situational challenges. While the online assessment was straightforward, the interview round was unpredictable. My advice to future candidates would be to stay adaptable and prepare for all possible scenarios. Good luck!

47

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: The application process involved a written test arranged by a vendor called eLitmus, followed by a case study and group presentation, and finally a personal interview.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Written Test:

  • Questions Asked: The test included sections on Verbal, Math, and Quantitative skills.

  • Your Approach: I focused on time management, ensuring I allocated enough time to each section. For the Verbal part, I skimmed through passages quickly to answer questions. For Math and Quantitative, I solved the easier questions first and then tackled the harder ones.

  • Outcome: I cleared this round and moved on to the next stage.

  • Round 2 - Case Study and Group Presentation:

  • Questions Asked: The topic was “How would you use technology in the Pizza business?” The challenge was to propose something unique since many pizza shops already use good technology.

  • Your Approach: Our group brainstormed ideas like AI-driven personalized pizza recommendations, drone deliveries in congested areas, and blockchain for supply chain transparency. I emphasized the impact of these technologies on customer experience and operational efficiency.

  • Outcome: The panel seemed impressed with our ideas, and our group was selected for the next round.

  • Round 3 - Personal Interview:

  • Questions Asked: The interview was a mix of technical and competency-based questions. Some technical questions were about basic programming concepts, while competency questions revolved around teamwork, problem-solving, and handling pressure.

  • Your Approach: I answered technical questions confidently, drawing from my academic knowledge. For competency questions, I used the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure my responses.

  • Outcome: The interview went well, and I felt I communicated my skills and experiences effectively.

Preparation Tips:

  • For the written test, practice time-bound mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
  • For case studies, stay updated on current tech trends and think creatively about their applications.
  • For the interview, brush up on basic technical concepts and prepare examples for competency-based questions using the STAR method.

Conclusion:
Overall, the Barclays interview process was well-structured and challenging. The case study round was particularly interesting as it tested creativity and teamwork. I could have prepared more for the technical part of the personal interview, but the experience was valuable. My advice to future candidates is to stay calm, think logically, and showcase your problem-solving skills in every round.

48

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Application Process: The process involved submitting a CV and cover letter, followed by assessments, a video interview, one-on-one interviews, and finally an assessment centre. The entire process was smooth from start to finish, and the response time after the interview was swift.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Assessments:

    • Questions Asked: The assessments included aptitude tests and situational judgment tests.
    • Your Approach: I prepared by practicing similar tests online to get familiar with the format and timing.
    • Outcome: Passed this round and moved to the next stage.

  • Round 2 - Video Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Behavioral questions like “Tell me about a time you worked in a team” and “How do you handle deadlines?”
    • Your Approach: I used the STAR method to structure my answers and kept my responses concise.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round.

  • Round 3 - One-on-One Interviews:

    • Questions Asked: A mix of technical and behavioral questions, such as “Explain a financial concept you find interesting” and “Describe a challenge you faced and how you overcame it.”
    • Your Approach: I brushed up on basic financial concepts and rehearsed my behavioral answers beforehand.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the assessment centre.

  • Round 4 - Assessment Centre:

    • Questions Asked: Group exercises, case studies, and a final interview with senior managers.
    • Your Approach: I focused on teamwork and clear communication during the group tasks and ensured my case study analysis was structured.
    • Outcome: Received positive feedback and an offer.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice aptitude tests and situational judgment tests beforehand.
  • Use the STAR method for behavioral questions.
  • Brush up on basic financial concepts if applying for a finance-related role.
  • Stay calm and confident during the assessment centre tasks.

Conclusion:
Overall, the process was well-organized, and the swift response time was appreciated. I would advise future candidates to prepare thoroughly for each stage and practice time management, especially for the assessments. Being confident and articulate during interviews also makes a big difference.

49

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process:
I applied online and received an email for a business meeting about 2 months after completing the video interview. The interview process consisted of two rounds.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Case Study:

  • Questions Asked: The first round was a case study, though the specific details of the case weren’t shared.

  • Your Approach: I approached it by analyzing the given scenario, breaking it down into key components, and proposing structured solutions.

  • Outcome: I passed this round and moved on to the second round.

  • Round 2 - Behavioral/Reaction-Based Interview:

  • Questions Asked: This round was unconventional. Instead of typical behavioral questions, the interviewers presented statements and observed my reactions to them.

  • Your Approach: I tried to stay composed and respond thoughtfully, ensuring my reactions aligned with professional and analytical expectations.

  • Outcome: Unfortunately, I didn’t progress further. The feedback I received was vague and not very constructive.

Conclusion:
Overall, it was a good learning experience, but the feedback process was disappointing. Instead of a detailed email, I received a call with very little actionable feedback. For future candidates, I’d advise preparing for both structured case studies and unconventional behavioral scenarios. Also, don’t expect detailed feedback from Barclays—it might not be as helpful as you’d hope.

50

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: The application process was thorough and well-structured. I applied through the company’s online portal, which included submitting my resume and a cover letter.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Technical Interview:

    • Questions Asked: The interviewer focused heavily on data structures and algorithms. Some of the questions included problems related to arrays, linked lists, and sorting algorithms.
    • Your Approach: I took my time to understand each problem thoroughly before jumping into coding. I also made sure to explain my thought process clearly to the interviewer.
    • Outcome: I passed this round and received positive feedback on my problem-solving approach.

  • Round 2 - HR Interview:

    • Questions Asked: This round was more about cultural fit and behavioral questions. The interviewer asked about my previous experiences, teamwork, and how I handle challenges.
    • Your Approach: I answered honestly and tried to relate my experiences to the role I was applying for. I also asked questions about the company culture to show my interest.
    • Outcome: I passed this round as well and felt confident about my performance.

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on strengthening your knowledge of data structures and algorithms.
  • Practice coding problems on platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank.
  • Be prepared to explain your thought process clearly during technical interviews.
  • For HR rounds, reflect on your past experiences and how they align with the company’s values.

Conclusion:
The Barclays interview process was challenging but rewarding. The technical round tested my problem-solving skills, while the HR round gave me a chance to showcase my personality and fit for the company. Overall, it was a great learning experience, and I would advise future candidates to prepare thoroughly and stay confident during the process.

51

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Location: On-campus

Application Process: Applied through on-campus placement.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Technical + HR Interview:
    • Questions Asked:
      • Basic resume-based questions.
      • A SQL query was asked (specific query not mentioned).
      • HR questions related to Barclays’ values.
    • Your Approach:
      • Prepared thoroughly for SQL basics and practiced common queries.
      • Researched Barclays’ values to align answers with their culture.
    • Outcome: Cleared the round successfully.

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on SQL basics and common queries.
  • Research the company’s values and culture for HR questions.

Conclusion:
The interview was straightforward, and preparation for both technical and HR aspects paid off. Practicing SQL and understanding the company’s values were key to success.

52

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Location: On-campus drive

Application Process: Applied through the on-campus placement drive at my university. The process began with an online test, followed by technical and behavioral interviews.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Online Test:

    • Questions Asked:
      • MCQs covering aptitude, logical reasoning, and technical topics.
      • Two coding questions (one on arrays and the other on strings).
    • Your Approach: Focused on solving the coding questions first as they carried more weight. Used basic DSA concepts for the coding problems.
    • Outcome: Cleared the round and was shortlisted for the next stage.

  • Round 2 - Technical Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Questions on Java (OOPs concepts, exception handling, and collections).
      • SQL fundamentals (joins, subqueries, and normalization).
      • Detailed discussion on projects mentioned in my resume.
    • Your Approach: Explained concepts clearly with examples. For SQL, I walked through my thought process while solving the problems.
    • Outcome: The interviewer seemed satisfied, and I moved to the next round.

  • Round 3 - Behavioral Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Situational questions like “Describe a time you worked in a team under pressure.”
      • Questions aligned with Barclays’ values (e.g., integrity, respect, and excellence).
    • Your Approach: Used the STAR method to structure my answers and linked my experiences to Barclays’ values.
    • Outcome: The interview went well, and I received positive feedback.

Preparation Tips:

  • For coding, practice on platforms like LeetCode (focus on arrays and strings).
  • Revise core Java and SQL concepts thoroughly.
  • Prepare for behavioral questions using the STAR method and align answers with the company’s values.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth and well-structured. I felt prepared for the technical rounds, but I could have practiced more behavioral questions beforehand. My advice to future candidates is to balance technical and soft skills preparation and research the company’s values thoroughly.

53

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: [Application process details not provided]

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Technical + Behavioral Interview:

    • Questions Asked:

      • In-depth questions on OOPs concepts.
      • Problem-solving questions.
      • A puzzle.
      • Behavioral and resume-based questions (e.g., explaining projects in detail).

    • Your Approach:

      • Prepared thoroughly for OOPs concepts and coding basics.
      • Practiced problem-solving and puzzles beforehand.
      • Ensured clarity in explaining projects and experiences mentioned in the resume.

    • Outcome: The interview went smoothly.

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on mastering OOPs concepts and coding basics.
  • Practice problem-solving and puzzles.
  • Be thorough with your resume, especially projects, and practice explaining them clearly.

Conclusion:
The interview was a good experience, and being well-prepared for technical and behavioral questions helped. Make sure to clarify any doubts during the interview and stay confident while explaining your projects.

54

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

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

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Technical Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Real-life examples of DBMS concepts.
      • OOPs concepts explained with practical scenarios.
    • Your Approach: I focused on explaining the concepts with relatable examples from my academic projects and internships. I also made sure to clarify any doubts the interviewer had about my answers.
    • Outcome: Passed this round and moved to the next stage.

  • Round 2 - Behavioral & HR Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Behavioral questions like “Tell me about a time you worked in a team.”
      • Resume-based questions about my projects and experiences.
    • Your Approach: I answered the behavioral questions using the STAR method to structure my responses. For resume-based questions, I highlighted my key contributions and learnings from each project.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round and received positive feedback.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on core DBMS and OOPs concepts with real-life applications.
  • Practice behavioral questions using the STAR method.
  • Be thorough with your resume and be ready to explain any project or experience mentioned in detail.

Conclusion:
The interview experience with Barclays was very relaxed and professional. The interviewers were friendly and made the process comfortable. I would advise future candidates to focus on understanding concepts deeply and practicing clear communication. Overall, it was a great learning experience!

55

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Application Process: I applied through the company’s online portal after seeing the job posting on my university’s career portal. The process was straightforward, requiring a resume upload and a few basic details.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Technical & Behavioral Interview:
    • Questions Asked:
      • Technical questions based on the projects mentioned in my resume.
      • Questions about my ambitions and where I see myself in the next 5 years.
    • Your Approach: I focused on explaining my projects in detail, highlighting my contributions and the technologies I used. For the behavioral questions, I tried to align my answers with the company’s values and my long-term career goals.
    • Outcome: The interview went smoothly, and I felt confident about my responses.

Preparation Tips:

  • Review your resume thoroughly, especially the projects you’ve worked on. Be ready to discuss them in detail.
  • Research the company’s values and align your answers to reflect how you fit into their culture.
  • Practice answering common behavioral questions, especially those about career goals.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview experience was positive. The questions were fair and relevant to my background. I think preparing well for both technical and behavioral aspects helped me perform confidently. For future candidates, I’d recommend knowing your resume inside out and being clear about your career aspirations.

56

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Application Process: I applied online for the Graduate Analyst position. The process started with an initial screening, followed by an online interview.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Online Interview:
    • Questions Asked: The interview was a mix of technical and situational questions delivered through a video format. The questions were challenging and interesting, covering a variety of topics.
    • Your Approach: I had prepared mainly for competency-based questions, but the style of the interview was quite dynamic, flowing from the first round of testing. While I was slightly thrown off by the format, I tried to stay composed and answer as clearly as possible.
    • Outcome: The outcome of this round is still pending, but I felt it was a good learning experience regardless.

Preparation Tips:

  • Prepare for both technical and situational questions, as the interview can cover a wide range of topics.
  • Practice answering questions in a video format to get comfortable with the online interview style.
  • Review competency-based questions but also be ready for unexpected twists in the interview flow.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview was a great experience, even though it was challenging. I realized the importance of being adaptable and thinking on my feet. For future candidates, I’d recommend thorough preparation and staying calm under pressure.

57

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Application Process: Applied through the company’s graduate scheme. The process included an online assessment, followed by a telephone interview, and finally an assessment centre.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Online Assessment:

  • Questions Asked: The assessment included numerical, verbal, and logical reasoning tests.

  • Your Approach: Focused on speed and accuracy, as the questions weren’t overly difficult but required quick responses. Practiced similar tests beforehand to get comfortable with the format.

  • Outcome: Passed the online assessment and moved to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Telephone Interview:

  • Questions Asked: Behavioral and situational questions, such as “Describe a time you worked in a team” and “How do you handle tight deadlines?”

  • Your Approach: Used the STAR method to structure answers clearly. Prepared by reviewing common behavioral questions and reflecting on past experiences.

  • Outcome: Successfully cleared the telephone interview and was invited to the assessment centre.

  • Round 3 - Assessment Centre:

  • Questions Asked: Included group exercises, case studies, and a final interview with senior managers. Topics ranged from problem-solving to teamwork and leadership.

  • Your Approach: Stayed engaged in group discussions, contributed ideas, and ensured clear communication. For the case study, structured my analysis logically and presented findings confidently.

  • Outcome: Received positive feedback and an offer for the Graduate Analyst role.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice online reasoning tests under timed conditions to improve speed and accuracy.
  • Review the STAR method for behavioral questions and prepare examples from past experiences.
  • For group exercises, focus on collaboration and clear communication.

Conclusion:
The process was well-structured and gave a good insight into the company culture. Practicing under timed conditions and preparing behavioral examples were key to my success. Would recommend future candidates to focus on these areas.

58

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Application Process: The application process involved three rounds: an aptitude test, a group discussion, and a combined technical and HR interview.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Aptitude Test & Coding:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Aptitude Test: Three sections—Quantitative, Logical, and Verbal questions.
      • Coding: Two coding questions.
    • Your Approach: For the aptitude test, I focused on time management, ensuring I allocated equal time to each section. For the coding round, I tackled the easier question first to build confidence.
    • Outcome: Cleared this round successfully.

  • Round 2 - Group Discussion:

    • Questions Asked: Topic was “Android vs. iOS.”
    • Your Approach: I made sure to contribute meaningfully, balancing speaking and listening. I supported my points with examples and stayed respectful of others’ opinions.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the next round.

  • Round 3 - Technical + HR Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Technical: Questions related to my field of study and problem-solving scenarios.
      • HR: Behavioral questions like “Tell me about yourself” and “Why Barclays?”
    • Your Approach: For technical questions, I explained my thought process clearly. For HR, I kept my answers concise and aligned with the role.
    • Outcome: Received positive feedback and moved forward in the process.

Preparation Tips:

  • For aptitude tests, practice timed quizzes to improve speed and accuracy.
  • For group discussions, stay updated on current topics and practice speaking concisely.
  • For interviews, review your resume thoroughly and prepare answers for common HR questions.

Conclusion:
Overall, the experience was smooth and well-structured. I could have prepared more for the technical questions, but staying calm and confident helped me perform well. My advice to future candidates is to practice consistently and focus on clear communication during interviews.

59

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Application Process: The process involved multiple rounds, including online aptitude tests, statistics assessments, case studies, group discussions, HR interviews, and technical interviews. The entire process took nearly two months to complete.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Online Aptitude Test:

  • Questions Asked: General aptitude questions covering quantitative ability, logical reasoning, and verbal skills.

  • Your Approach: I practiced with standard aptitude test materials and timed myself to improve speed and accuracy.

  • Outcome: Cleared the round successfully.

  • Round 2 - Statistics Assessment:

  • Questions Asked: Questions focused on statistical concepts, data interpretation, and problem-solving.

  • Your Approach: Revised key statistical topics and solved practice problems to ensure clarity.

  • Outcome: Passed this round.

  • Round 3 - Case Study:

  • Questions Asked: A business case study was provided, and I had to analyze and present solutions.

  • Your Approach: Structured my analysis using frameworks like SWOT and focused on clear communication of ideas.

  • Outcome: Advanced to the next round.

  • Round 4 - Group Discussion:

  • Questions Asked: A topic was given for group discussion, and we had to collaborate and present our views.

  • Your Approach: Actively participated, listened to others, and contributed meaningful points while maintaining respect for others’ opinions.

  • Outcome: Selected for the HR interview.

  • Round 5 - HR Interview:

  • Questions Asked: Questions about my background, motivations, strengths, weaknesses, and situational responses.

  • Your Approach: Stayed honest and confident, aligning my answers with the company’s values and role requirements.

  • Outcome: Moved to the final round.

  • Round 6 - Technical Interview:

  • Questions Asked: Technical questions related to the role, problem-solving scenarios, and situational judgment.

  • Your Approach: Prepared by reviewing technical concepts relevant to the role and practiced articulating my thought process clearly.

  • Outcome: Received positive feedback and was selected for the role.

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on improving communication skills as they are highly valued.
  • Practice aptitude and statistical problems regularly.
  • Work on case studies and group discussions to build confidence.
  • Be genuine and confident during HR and technical interviews.

Conclusion:
The entire process was rigorous but rewarding. The interviewers were very professional and could easily gauge candidates’ authenticity. Confidence and communication played a huge role in my success. My advice to future candidates is to be yourself, prepare thoroughly, and stay calm throughout the process.

60

Company Name: Barclays

Position: Graduate Analyst

Application Process: The application process began with standard psychometric tests, including numerical and logical assessments. Upon passing these tests, I was invited for a phone interview. After successfully clearing the phone interview, I was scheduled for an Assessment Centre (AC). The entire process was quite lengthy but well-structured.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Psychometric Tests:

    • Questions Asked: Numerical and logical reasoning questions.
    • Your Approach: I practiced similar tests beforehand to get comfortable with the format and timing.
    • Outcome: Passed the tests and moved to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Phone Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Behavioral and situational questions, along with some basic technical queries related to the role.
    • Your Approach: I prepared by reviewing common behavioral questions and brushing up on relevant technical concepts.
    • Outcome: Cleared the interview and was invited to the Assessment Centre.

  • Round 3 - Assessment Centre (AC):

    • Questions Asked: Group activities, case studies, and further behavioral interviews.
    • Your Approach: I focused on teamwork and communication during group activities and ensured my answers in the behavioral interviews were structured (STAR method).
    • Outcome: The AC was engaging, and the atmosphere was positive. Awaiting final results.

Preparation Tips:

  • Practice psychometric tests under timed conditions.
  • Review behavioral questions and use the STAR method for structured answers.
  • Brush up on basic technical concepts relevant to the role.
  • Stay calm and collaborative during group activities in the AC.

Conclusion:
The overall experience with Barclays was thorough and well-organized, though the process was lengthy. The AC was particularly enjoyable due to the collaborative environment. For future candidates, I’d recommend thorough preparation for each stage and maintaining a positive attitude throughout the process.