Preparing for a Transfer Agency Specialist job interview requires a strong understanding of client account management, accurate processing of securities transactions, and regulatory compliance. Emphasizing attention to detail, communication skills, and familiarity with transfer agency software will demonstrate your readiness for the role. Highlighting experiences with problem-solving and managing shareholder inquiries can set you apart during the interview.
Tell me about yourself.
Focus on your relevant experience in transfer agency operations, highlighting your expertise in shareholder record maintenance, trade processing, and client communication. Emphasize your ability to manage large volumes of transactions accurately, knowledge of industry regulations, and familiarity with State Street's products and services. Showcase your strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and commitment to delivering exceptional client service within the financial services sector.
Do's
- Concise Introduction - Summarize your professional background relevant to transfer agency and financial services in 1-2 sentences.
- Highlight Experience - Emphasize your experience with fund accounting, client servicing, and transaction processing in the transfer agency field.
- Showcase Skills - Mention key skills such as attention to detail, compliance knowledge, and proficiency in transfer agency software platforms.
Don'ts
- Irrelevant Details - Avoid personal or unrelated information that doesn't connect to the Transfer Agency Specialist role.
- Overly Long Narratives - Do not provide a lengthy career history; keep answers focused and targeted.
- Negative Comments - Refrain from speaking negatively about past employers or colleagues.
Why do you want to work at State Street?
Express genuine interest in State Street's industry-leading position in financial services and its strong commitment to innovation and client-focused solutions. Highlight how your skills in account management, attention to detail, and compliance align with the Transfer Agency Specialist role, emphasizing your enthusiasm for contributing to accurate shareholder recordkeeping and improving operational efficiency. Demonstrate knowledge of State Street's values and culture, showing how your career goals resonate with the company's mission to deliver exceptional service and support to global clients.
Do's
- Company Research - Highlight your knowledge about State Street's role in financial services and commitment to client solutions.
- Role Alignment - Emphasize how your skills and experience match the Transfer Agency Specialist responsibilities.
- Career Growth - Express enthusiasm about opportunities for professional development within State Street.
Don'ts
- Generic Answers - Avoid vague statements like "I need a job" or unrelated reasons.
- Negative Comments - Do not criticize previous employers or work environments.
- Overemphasis on Salary - Refrain from focusing mainly on compensation rather than the role and company culture.
Why are you interested in the Transfer Agency Specialist position?
Express genuine enthusiasm for State Street's reputation in financial services and its global impact on asset management. Highlight your strong background in transfer agency operations, including expertise in shareholder record maintenance, transaction processing, and regulatory compliance. Emphasize your desire to contribute to efficient client service and accurate data management within State Street's collaborative and innovative work environment.
Do's
- Research State Street - Demonstrate knowledge of the company's mission, values, and financial services to align your interest with their goals.
- Highlight Relevant Skills - Emphasize your experience in transfer agency operations, client servicing, and regulatory compliance.
- Show Enthusiasm - Express genuine interest in the Transfer Agency Specialist role and how it fits your career growth within the financial services industry.
Don'ts
- Generic Responses - Avoid vague answers that do not connect your skills or aspirations to the specific role at State Street.
- Focus Only on Salary - Do not mention compensation as the primary reason for interest in the position.
- Ignore Company Culture - Avoid neglecting the importance of how you align with State Street's company culture and team environment.
What do you know about State Street's transfer agency business?
State Street's transfer agency business specializes in managing shareholder records, processing transactions, and ensuring regulatory compliance for mutual funds and other investment vehicles. The Transfer Agency Specialist plays a key role in maintaining accurate ownership data, handling account maintenance requests, and supporting shareholder communications. Understanding State Street's focus on operational excellence, risk management, and client service is essential to align your skills with their business objectives.
Do's
- Research Transfer Agency Services - Understand the role of State Street's transfer agency in managing shareholder records and transaction processing.
- Highlight Industry Knowledge - Show familiarity with financial services, mutual funds, and regulatory compliance relevant to transfer agency operations.
- Demonstrate Attention to Detail - Emphasize accuracy and diligence in handling sensitive financial data and client requests.
Don'ts
- Use Generalized Answers - Avoid vague responses about the company's business without specifics on transfer agency functions.
- Neglect Regulatory Context - Do not overlook the importance of SEC regulations and industry guidelines affecting transfer agency work.
- Disregard Client Focus - Avoid ignoring the client service aspect and the importance of timely, accurate shareholder record management.
Describe your previous experience in financial services or fund administration.
Highlight your role in managing investor records and processing fund transactions with accuracy and compliance at financial institutions. Emphasize your expertise in maintaining transfer agency systems, resolving shareholder inquiries, and ensuring regulatory adherence relevant to fund administration. Showcase your familiarity with State Street's industry standards, demonstrating the ability to handle high-volume operations efficiently within strict timelines.
Do's
- Relevant Experience - Highlight your specific roles in financial services or fund administration, emphasizing tasks related to transfer agency functions.
- Regulatory Knowledge - Demonstrate familiarity with industry regulations such as SEC rules and compliance standards affecting transfer agencies.
- Technical Skills - Mention expertise with fund accounting software, transfer agency platforms, and data reconciliation techniques.
Don'ts
- Generalizations - Avoid vague statements that do not clearly connect your experience to transfer agency responsibilities.
- Negative Remarks - Refrain from criticizing previous employers or colleagues during your description.
- Overlooking Compliance - Do not neglect to mention adherence to compliance or risk management protocols specific to fund administration.
How do you handle large volumes of transactions with tight deadlines?
Demonstrate expertise in managing high-volume transaction processing by highlighting experience with workflow automation, prioritization techniques, and adherence to strict compliance standards. Emphasize proficiency in using State Street's proprietary systems and industry tools to ensure accuracy and efficiency under tight deadlines. Showcase ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams to mitigate risks and resolve discrepancies promptly, ensuring seamless transfer agency operations.
Do's
- Time Management - Use prioritization techniques and scheduling tools to meet tight deadlines efficiently.
- Accuracy - Maintain high accuracy in data entry and processing to minimize errors in transaction handling.
- Communication - Keep clear communication with team members and supervisors about progress and potential bottlenecks.
Don'ts
- Rushing - Avoid rushing through transactions as it can increase the risk of costly mistakes.
- Ignoring Procedures - Do not skip compliance or operational procedures when processing transactions.
- Overloading - Avoid taking on more tasks than manageable without requesting additional support or resources.
Can you explain the process of trade settlement in transfer agency?
Trade settlement in transfer agency involves verifying transaction details, ensuring accurate record keeping of shareholder accounts, and facilitating the transfer of securities ownership. The process begins with confirming trade instructions, followed by coordinating with custodians and clearinghouses to reconcile settlement obligations on the trade date (T+2 standard). Accurate reconciliation and timely communication mitigate settlement risks and maintain compliance with regulatory standards, which is vital for a Transfer Agency Specialist at State Street.
Do's
- Trade Settlement Process - Explain the sequential steps including trade capture, affirmation, matching, and confirmation clearly.
- Regulatory Compliance - Emphasize adherence to industry regulations like SEC and FINRA during settlement.
- Communication Skills - Highlight effective coordination with custodians, brokers, and clients for smooth settlement.
Don'ts
- Vague Descriptions - Avoid general explanations without detailing key stages of trade settlement.
- Ignoring Errors - Do not neglect the importance of error resolution and reconciliation in the settlement process.
- Technical Jargon Overuse - Avoid overloading the explanation with complex terms that may confuse the interviewer.
How do you ensure accuracy and attention to detail in your work?
To ensure accuracy and attention to detail as a Transfer Agency Specialist at State Street, meticulously cross-check client data and transaction records against official documents and system entries. Implement standardized reconciliation procedures and utilize data validation tools to detect discrepancies early. Maintain clear documentation and promptly address anomalies to uphold compliance and operational integrity.
Do's
- Provide specific examples - Describe situations where you successfully maintained accuracy and attention to detail in previous roles.
- Emphasize error-checking methods - Explain techniques like double-checking work or using software tools to minimize mistakes.
- Highlight organizational skills - Discuss how prioritizing tasks and managing time helps maintain high-quality work.
Don'ts
- Avoid vague answers - Do not give generic responses without demonstrating your approach to accuracy.
- Do not blame others - Avoid shifting responsibility for errors to colleagues or external factors.
- Do not overpromise - Avoid claiming perfection; acknowledge the importance of continuous improvement.
Tell me about a time you identified an error in your work and how you resolved it.
Focus on a specific instance where you detected a discrepancy in client account records while processing transactions at State Street. Explain your approach to thoroughly reviewing the data, collaborating with team members to confirm the error, and promptly correcting the records to ensure regulatory compliance and accurate client reporting. Emphasize your attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and commitment to maintaining data integrity in a fast-paced transfer agency environment.
Do's
- Self-awareness - Acknowledge your role in identifying errors to demonstrate accountability.
- Problem-solving - Explain the steps taken to investigate and correct the error efficiently.
- Communication - Highlight how you informed relevant team members or supervisors to ensure transparency and collaboration.
Don'ts
- Blaming others - Avoid shifting responsibility to colleagues or external factors.
- Minimizing the issue - Do not downplay the impact of the error or the seriousness of correcting it.
- Vagueness - Refrain from giving vague or generic answers without clear examples or outcomes.
Describe your experience with anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) processes.
Highlight your direct involvement with AML and KYC frameworks within financial services, emphasizing your adherence to regulatory compliance and risk mitigation standards. Detail specific tasks such as customer identity verification, transaction monitoring, and reporting suspicious activities in line with policies at State Street or similar institutions. Demonstrate your familiarity with industry software and collaboration with compliance teams to ensure robust client onboarding and ongoing due diligence.
Do's
- AML Compliance - Emphasize your experience in implementing AML policies to prevent financial crimes.
- KYC Procedures - Highlight your proficiency in verifying client identities and conducting due diligence.
- Regulatory Knowledge - Mention familiarity with relevant regulations such as the USA PATRIOT Act and FATCA.
Don'ts
- Overgeneralization - Avoid vague statements without specifying your role in AML and KYC processes.
- Ignoring Technology - Do not omit mentioning the use of AML/KYC software tools or data analytics.
- Disregarding Confidentiality - Do not reveal sensitive client information or company-specific procedures.
How do you deal with difficult clients or situations?
Emphasize active listening and empathy to understand client concerns and address issues effectively when dealing with difficult clients or situations in the Transfer Agency Specialist role at State Street. Highlight problem-solving skills by explaining how to analyze situations, identify solutions, and collaborate with internal teams to resolve conflicts promptly. Demonstrate patience and professionalism to maintain positive client relationships while adhering to company policies and regulatory requirements.
Do's
- Active Listening - Focus on fully understanding the client's concerns before responding.
- Empathy - Show genuine concern and understanding to build rapport and trust.
- Clear Communication - Provide concise and professional explanations to address issues effectively.
Don'ts
- Interrupting - Avoid cutting off clients as it may escalate tension and reduce cooperation.
- Overpromising - Do not guarantee solutions you cannot deliver, maintaining realistic expectations is key.
- Negative Language - Refrain from using blaming or confrontational words that can worsen the situation.
Give an example of how you managed conflicting priorities.
Describe a situation at State Street where you balanced urgent client requests with strict regulatory deadlines by prioritizing tasks based on impact and compliance requirements. Highlight how you communicated effectively with stakeholders to realign expectations and utilized your organizational skills to ensure timely delivery without compromising accuracy. Emphasize your ability to maintain attention to detail and meet service level agreements in a high-pressure transfer agency environment.
Do's
- Prioritize Tasks - Clearly explain your method for evaluating task urgency and importance to manage multiple priorities effectively.
- Use STAR Method - Structure your example by describing the Situation, Task, Action, and Result to provide a clear narrative.
- Highlight Communication - Emphasize how you communicated with stakeholders to align expectations and update on progress during conflicting priorities.
Don'ts
- Vague Responses - Avoid giving general answers without specific examples or measurable outcomes.
- Blame Others - Do not attribute conflicts to coworkers or external factors without showing how you contributed to resolution.
- Ignore Impact - Refrain from failing to mention the positive results or lessons learned from managing conflicting priorities.
Are you familiar with any transfer agency systems or software?
Demonstrate your proficiency with transfer agency systems by specifying experience with key platforms such as Broadridge, SS&C Technologies, or FIS Global, which are commonly used in the industry. Highlight your ability to manage shareholder records, process transactions, and ensure regulatory compliance using these systems. Emphasize any specific achievements or efficiency improvements gained through your use of this software in previous roles.
Do's
- Transfer Agency Systems - Mention any experience with transfer agency platforms like Broadridge, DST Vision, or FIS.
- Data Accuracy - Emphasize your ability to maintain accurate shareholder records and handle sensitive financial data.
- Problem-Solving Skills - Highlight your experience resolving discrepancies and managing complex transactions efficiently.
Don'ts
- Overgeneralizing - Avoid vague answers about system familiarity without specifying particular software or modules.
- Ignoring Compliance - Do not neglect the importance of regulatory compliance in transfer agency operations.
- Neglecting Teamwork - Avoid suggesting you work in isolation; emphasize collaboration in managing client requests and system updates.
How do you ensure compliance with policies and regulations in your day-to-day work?
To ensure compliance with policies and regulations as a Transfer Agency Specialist at State Street, consistently follow established procedures and leverage internal compliance tools to monitor transactions. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of regulatory requirements such as SEC regulations, AML laws, and company policies through ongoing training and collaboration with the compliance team. Document all processes meticulously and promptly report any discrepancies or potential risks to minimize compliance breaches.
Do's
- Policy Familiarity - Regularly review and stay updated on State Street's compliance policies and industry regulations.
- Accurate Documentation - Maintain precise and thorough records of all transfer agency transactions to ensure traceability and audit readiness.
- Proactive Communication - Collaborate with compliance teams and escalate potential issues promptly to mitigate risks.
Don'ts
- Ignoring Updates - Avoid neglecting changes in legal or regulatory requirements relevant to transfer agency operations.
- Incomplete Data Entry - Do not compromise on accuracy when inputting client information or transaction details.
- Bypassing Procedures - Never circumvent established compliance workflows or controls to expedite processes.
Tell us about a time you worked in a team to meet a deadline.
Describe a specific project where collaboration was critical to meet a tight deadline, emphasizing your role in coordinating with colleagues to ensure accuracy and efficiency in transfer agency processes. Highlight how you contributed to tracking progress, resolving discrepancies, and communicating updates within the team to maintain workflow consistency. Showcase problem-solving skills and commitment to compliance standards relevant to State Street's operational excellence.
Do's
- Team Collaboration - Emphasize your ability to communicate effectively and support team members to achieve common goals.
- Deadline Management - Highlight examples where you prioritized tasks and managed time efficiently to meet tight deadlines.
- Problem Solving - Showcase how you identified challenges within the team and contributed to solutions to ensure project success.
Don'ts
- Blaming Others - Avoid placing blame on team members for any issues or delays during the project.
- Lack of Specifics - Do not provide vague answers; be clear and concise about your role and contributions.
- Ignoring Company Values - Steer clear of responses that do not align with State Street's focus on integrity, client service, and teamwork.
What would you do if you noticed suspicious activity in an investor's transaction?
When addressing suspicious activity in an investor's transaction, emphasize strict adherence to State Street's compliance protocols and regulatory requirements such as AML (Anti-Money Laundering) policies. Highlight the importance of promptly reporting the activity to the designated compliance team or internal control units to ensure thorough investigation and risk mitigation. Demonstrate your knowledge of transaction monitoring systems and your commitment to maintaining the integrity and security of transfer agency operations.
Do's
- Report Immediately - Notify the compliance team or supervisor about the suspicious activity promptly.
- Document Details - Record all relevant transaction information and observations accurately.
- Follow Company Policy - Adhere strictly to State Street's procedures for handling suspicious transactions.
Don'ts
- Ignore the Activity - Do not overlook or dismiss any unusual or suspicious investor transactions.
- Take Unauthorized Action - Avoid interfering with the transaction without approval from compliance authorities.
- Disclose Information Improperly - Refrain from sharing transaction details with unauthorized individuals.
How do you stay organized when handling multiple investor requests?
Effectively managing multiple investor requests as a Transfer Agency Specialist at State Street requires implementing robust organizational strategies such as prioritizing tasks based on urgency and investor impact, utilizing advanced tracking tools like CRM systems or project management software, and maintaining detailed, up-to-date documentation to ensure seamless communication and timely responses. Employing these methods helps uphold State Street's standards for accuracy, compliance, and client service excellence in a fast-paced financial environment.
Do's
- Prioritize tasks - Organize investor requests by urgency and importance to ensure timely responses.
- Use tracking tools - Implement project management software or spreadsheets to monitor the status of each request.
- Maintain clear communication - Regularly update team members and investors on progress to avoid misunderstandings.
Don'ts
- Ignore deadlines - Missing deadlines can damage investor confidence and trust.
- Overload yourself - Avoid taking on too many requests without proper delegation or support.
- Neglect documentation - Failing to record communications and actions can lead to errors or lost information.
Describe how you would handle confidential information.
Handling confidential information as a Transfer Agency Specialist at State Street requires strict adherence to company protocols and regulatory standards such as GDPR and SEC guidelines. I would ensure all sensitive client data is accessed only through secure systems with multi-factor authentication and maintained within encrypted databases to prevent unauthorized disclosure. Regular training on data privacy, vigilant monitoring for potential breaches, and immediate reporting of any suspicious activity are essential practices to uphold the integrity and trust central to State Street's operational excellence.
Do's
- Confidentiality - Emphasize strict adherence to company policies and legal regulations regarding confidential data.
- Data Security - Highlight methods to securely store and handle sensitive information to prevent unauthorized access.
- Communication - Stress the importance of sharing confidential information only with authorized personnel in a professional manner.
Don'ts
- Oversharing - Avoid discussing confidential information with individuals not authorized to receive it.
- Negligence - Do not leave sensitive documents unattended or unsecured in any form.
- Policy Violation - Never ignore or bypass company protocols related to data protection and confidentiality.
What steps would you take to improve a manual process?
To improve a manual process as a Transfer Agency Specialist at State Street, begin by thoroughly analyzing the existing workflow to identify inefficiencies and potential risks. Implement automation tools such as robotic process automation (RPA) or advanced Excel macros to streamline repetitive tasks while ensuring data accuracy and regulatory compliance. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to document the revised process, monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), and continually refine the system based on feedback and evolving business needs.
Do's
- Process Analysis -Identify inefficiencies in the manual process by thoroughly analyzing each step.
- Automation Tools -Recommend appropriate automation technologies or software to streamline repetitive tasks.
- Stakeholder Collaboration -Engage with team members and stakeholders to gather input and ensure practical improvements.
Don'ts
- Ignore Existing Procedures -Avoid disregarding the current processes without understanding their purpose and constraints.
- Overlook Compliance -Do not suggest changes without considering regulatory and company compliance requirements specific to transfer agency operations.
- Neglect Training -Avoid implementing improvements without planning for adequate employee training and support.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
When answering the question "Where do you see yourself in five years?" for a Transfer Agency Specialist role at State Street, focus on demonstrating your commitment to growth within the financial services and fund administration industry. Highlight your ambition to deepen your expertise in transfer agency functions, improve operational efficiency, and contribute to compliance and client service excellence. Emphasize aligning your career progression with State Street's mission and values, aiming to take on increasing responsibilities or leadership opportunities within the company.
Do's
- Career Growth - Emphasize your ambition to develop expertise in Transfer Agency operations within State Street.
- Company Alignment - Show understanding of State Street's values and express commitment to contributing long-term.
- Skill Development - Highlight your plan to acquire advanced skills in financial services and client relationship management.
Don'ts
- Vague Goals - Avoid general or unrelated career aspirations that do not connect with the Transfer Agency Specialist role.
- Overambition - Do not promise unrealistic rapid promotions or roles beyond your current experience level.
- Short-Term Focus - Avoid implying you see the job as a temporary stop or stepping stone to unrelated industries.
What do you consider your strengths and weaknesses?
Focus on highlighting strengths relevant to the Transfer Agency Specialist role at State Street, such as attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and proficiency in financial software. When discussing weaknesses, choose areas for improvement and emphasize your commitment to ongoing learning and professional development. Demonstrate self-awareness and the ability to adapt, which are crucial for maintaining accuracy and efficiency in transfer agency operations.
Do's
- Self-awareness - Identify specific strengths relevant to Transfer Agency tasks like attention to detail and communication skills.
- Honesty - Provide genuine weaknesses that do not impair job performance, showing a willingness to improve.
- Examples - Support strengths and weaknesses with brief examples or experiences demonstrating growth or competency.
Don'ts
- Generic answers - Avoid vague statements like "I work too hard" that lack authenticity or insight.
- Negative traits - Refrain from mentioning critical weaknesses that directly conflict with Transfer Agency Specialist responsibilities.
- Overconfidence - Do not exaggerate strengths or deny any weaknesses, which may seem unrealistic or insincere.
Why should we hire you for this role?
Emphasize your expertise in handling complex data management and client account services critical to transfer agency operations, showcasing your ability to ensure accuracy and compliance with industry regulations. Highlight your experience working with State Street's systems or similar financial platforms, demonstrating a proven track record of improving process efficiency and resolving discrepancies swiftly. Showcase your strong communication skills and commitment to delivering exceptional client service, which aligns perfectly with State Street's focus on reliability and trust in managing shareholder records.
Do's
- Highlight Relevant Experience - Emphasize your prior roles in transfer agency or financial services that match the job requirements at State Street.
- Showcase Technical Skills - Demonstrate proficiency in transfer agency systems, compliance regulations, and client service excellence.
- Align with Company Values - Explain how your work ethic and goals align with State Street's commitment to integrity, innovation, and client focus.
Don'ts
- Overgeneralize Your Skills - Avoid vague statements that do not specifically relate to transfer agency functions or the financial sector.
- Focus on Salary or Benefits - Do not prioritize compensation or perks over your qualifications and contribution potential.
- Criticize Past Employers - Refrain from negative remarks about previous jobs that could reflect poorly on your professionalism.
Are you willing to work overtime or on public holidays if required?
Express willingness to work overtime and on public holidays when necessary, emphasizing commitment to meeting client deadlines and supporting transfer agency operations. Highlight flexibility and reliability as key traits that contribute to maintaining accurate and timely processing of shareholder transactions. Demonstrate understanding of State Street's dedication to client service and how your adaptability aligns with company values.
Do's
- Express Flexibility - Clearly state your willingness to work overtime or on public holidays when necessary to meet project deadlines.
- Highlight Commitment - Emphasize your dedication to the role and supporting team goals even outside regular hours.
- Link to Job Requirements - Connect your availability to key responsibilities in Transfer Agency Specialist tasks, showing understanding of workload peaks.
Don'ts
- Show Reluctance - Avoid indicating hesitation or unwillingness to adapt your schedule for urgent work needs.
- Appear Unreliable - Do not suggest inflexibility which may imply poor team collaboration or commitment.
- Overpromise - Avoid guaranteeing availability without considering personal limits or company policy on overtime.
What are your salary expectations?
When asked about salary expectations for a Transfer Agency Specialist role at State Street, research the company's typical salary range for this position using sources like Glassdoor or Payscale. Provide a well-informed range based on your experience, qualifications, and the industry standards, stating flexibility to ensure alignment with the company's compensation structure. Emphasize your focus on the overall opportunity, including growth and benefits, while expressing openness to discussing a competitive and fair package.
Do's
- Research Market Salary - Provide a salary range based on industry standards for Transfer Agency Specialist roles at State Street.
- Express Flexibility - Indicate willingness to discuss and negotiate salary based on total compensation and job responsibilities.
- Highlight Value - Emphasize relevant skills and experience that justify your salary expectations.
Don'ts
- Give a Fixed Number Too Early - Avoid stating a specific salary figure before understanding full job requirements and benefits.
- Undersell Yourself - Don't provide an unrealistically low salary that undervalues your expertise.
- Avoid Evasion - Do not refuse to answer or deflect the question without giving a thoughtful response.
Do you have any questions for us?
Prepare thoughtful questions about State Street's Transfer Agency operations, such as team structure, technology platforms used, and regulatory compliance challenges. Inquire about opportunities for professional development and how the company supports ongoing learning in transfer agency services. Asking about key performance indicators for the Transfer Agency Specialist role shows your interest in meeting and exceeding job expectations.
Do's
- Company Culture - Ask about the work environment and team dynamics at State Street to show your interest in fitting in.
- Role Expectations - Inquire about the daily responsibilities and key performance indicators for the Transfer Agency Specialist position.
- Training and Development - Request information on professional growth opportunities and training programs available at State Street.
Don'ts
- Salary and Benefits - Avoid discussing compensation details too early, which may appear presumptive.
- Negative Comments - Do not speak negatively about previous employers or colleagues.
- Unprepared Questions - Avoid asking questions that can be easily found on the company website or job description.