There are generally few requirements for becoming a loan
clerk. In most places, a person needs a high school diploma or its equivalent to
become a loan clerk, but there are no other educational requirements. Usually,
there are no licensing requirements for holding this position, and a person may
be hired without any experience. An individual may make himself a more
attractive job candidate by gaining some experience in the banking or lending
industry, however. A loan clerk is an individual who assists customers who are
applying for loans. He helps loan customers complete applications and prepare
loan documentation. A person in this position may also provide initial screening
of loan documents and prepare contracts for those who are approved. He may even
check a loan applicant’s credit to determine whether he is likely to make timely
loan payments, and he may perform reference checks as well. Many places expect a
person to be at least 18 years old, or the legal age of majority, before
applying to become a loan clerk. Besides that and a high school diploma or its
equivalent, there aren’t any ironclad requirements. Most employers look for
candidates who are personable, communicate well, and pay attention to detail.
Some companies prefer to hire loan clerks who are bilingual, as they can
communicate with more loan customers. Some companies also perform background and
credit checks before hiring new loan clerks. Usually, a person who wants to
become a loan clerk will receive on-the-job training. While most companies are
willing to provide training, it’s worth noting that there are some lenders that
prefer applicants who have bachelor’s degrees or some sort of experience in
banking or lending. Some companies may require individuals interested in
management positions in the loan department to hold college degrees. Others may
promote individuals who show promise after a significant period of time as a
loan clerk. An individual who wants to become a loan clerk may do well to
research the companies to which he wants to apply. This way, he can determine
whether he meets their requirements in advance. He may then prepare or polish
his resume, highlighting any experience he’s had in a financial or
customer-related job. If he is granted an interview, he’ll have the best chance
of success if he shows up on time, dressed professionally and ready to express
that he is self-motivated, reliable, detail-oriented, and a fast
learner. |