Financial Institution Tellers, Clerks, and Related Workers

Many banks and financial institutions follow a "promote-from-within" policy. Promotions are usually given on the basis of past job performance and consider the employee's seniority, ability, and general personal qualities. Clerks who have done well and established good reputations may be promoted to teller positions. Tellers, in turn, may be promoted to head teller or supervisory positions such as department head. Some head tellers may be transferred from their main branch bank to a smaller branch bank where they have greater responsibilities.

Employees who show initiative in their jobs and pursue additional education may advance into low-level officer positions, such as assistant trust officer. The American Bankers Association and BAI offer courses in various banking topics that can help employees learn new skills and prepare for promotions.

Promotion to higher-level positions typically requires the employee to have a bachelor's degree or an advanced degree.