Most Asked SBI CBO Interview Questions 2025 with Answers

Published on 28 October 2025 by
SBI

The SBI CBO Interview 2025 is the final and most crucial stage of the Circle Based Officer recruitment process. After clearing the objective and descriptive tests, shortlisted candidates face a face-to-face interview that evaluates their banking knowledge, communication skills, leadership ability, and overall suitability for the role.

Most Asked SBI CBO Interview Questions 2025 with Answers

To help candidates prepare effectively, here’s a list of the most frequently asked SBI CBO interview questions along with practical preparation insights. These questions are based on recent candidate experiences and focus on both technical and behavioural aspects of banking.

1. Tell Me About Yourself

This is usually the opening question in any interview. It helps the panel evaluate how clearly and confidently you can describe your background, professional experience, and goals.
Tip: Structure your answer as Name → Education → Experience → Achievements → Why SBI CBO. Keep it concise and formal.

2. Why Do You Want to Join SBI as a Circle Based Officer?

The panel looks for your motivation and understanding of the CBO role. They want to know how your experience aligns with SBI’s objectives.
Tip: Mention SBI’s reputation, customer-centric approach, and regional focus of the CBO role. Show how your background fits this structure.

3. What Are Your Strengths and Weaknesses?

This question tests self-awareness and honesty.
Tip: Talk about 2–3 strengths relevant to the role, such as decision-making or adaptability, and one non-critical weakness that you are actively working to improve.

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4. How Do You Handle Customer Complaints in a Busy Branch?

Customer service is a vital part of banking, and this question checks your patience and problem-solving skills.
Tip: Explain your process clearly—listen, empathize, act, and follow up. Use a real-life example where you successfully resolved a complaint.

5. What Steps Will You Take to Increase CASA Deposits?

This is one of the most commonly asked operational questions. The panel wants to know your approach to business growth.
Tip: Discuss initiatives like meeting local traders, promoting YONO-based digital accounts, and organizing financial literacy camps.

A CBO is expected to stay informed about new policies and regulations.
Tip: Mention that you regularly read RBI circulars, SBI internal updates, and follow reliable financial news sources such as ET BFSI or Business Standard.

7. How Do You Motivate Your Team During a Low-Performance Quarter?

This question evaluates your leadership and emotional intelligence.
Tip: Describe how you identify issues, communicate clearly, set achievable goals, and recognize efforts to boost morale.

8. Explain the Difference Between CASA and Term Deposits

A basic yet essential banking question, this tests your conceptual understanding.
Tip: CASA accounts provide low-cost deposits due to lower interest rates, while term deposits are fixed for a period with higher returns. Explain how CASA improves profitability.

9. What Are Non-Performing Assets (NPAs)? How Can They Be Controlled?

This is a frequently repeated question in banking interviews.
Tip: Define NPAs clearly (when a loan is overdue for more than 90 days) and mention prevention measures like better credit appraisal, early monitoring, and recovery follow-ups.

10. How Do You Balance Compliance and Customer Satisfaction?

The panel assesses how well you can enforce regulations without compromising service quality.
Tip: Emphasize that compliance builds trust. Explain how you communicate regulatory requirements to customers transparently.

11. What Do You Know About SBI’s Digital Initiatives?

SBI has been leading India’s digital banking transformation, and the panel expects awareness of its platforms.
Tip: Mention YONO, SBI Quick, and YONO Business. Explain how these initiatives enhance customer experience and operational efficiency.

12. How Would You Handle an Underperforming Team Member?

Leadership is a key skill for a Circle-Based Officer.
Tip: Focus on understanding the reason for underperformance, providing support or training, setting clear expectations, and tracking progress constructively.

13. What Motivates You to Work in the Banking Sector?

This question checks your long-term vision and attitude.
Tip: Link your motivation to community service, continuous learning, and the dynamic environment of the banking industry.

14. What Would You Do If a Customer Offered You a Gift?

An ethics-based question to test your integrity and professionalism.
Tip: Politely decline the gift, thank the customer, and explain that accepting personal gifts violates bank policy. Integrity is non-negotiable in banking.

15. Where Do You See Yourself in the Next Five Years in SBI?

This question reveals your career goals and commitment to the organization.
Tip: Express your desire to grow within SBI by taking on greater responsibilities, leading a team, and contributing to the bank’s expansion in your circle.

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Other Commonly Asked SBI CBO Interview Questions

Before appearing for the interview, review these additional frequently asked questions:

  • What is Priority Sector Lending (PSL)?
  • How do you handle audit pressure and multiple deadlines?
  • What steps would you take to prevent fraud at your branch?
  • What are the major risks faced by banks today?
  • How is the CBO role different from that of a Probationary Officer?

Preparation Tips for SBI CBO Interview 2025

A well-prepared candidate stands out not only for their knowledge but also for their composure and clarity.

  • Revise core banking concepts like CASA, NPAs, PSL, and credit appraisal.
  • Stay updated with recent RBI guidelines, policy changes, and digital banking updates.
  • Practice mock interviews to refine your communication and confidence.
  • Maintain professional posture, eye contact, and a calm tone during the interview.

FAQs on SBI CBO Interview 2025

Q1: What type of questions are asked in the SBI CBO Interview 2025?
A1: The panel asks a mix of banking, leadership, compliance, and situational questions based on real branch experiences.

Q2: Is the SBI CBO interview technical or HR-based?
A2: It includes both — technical banking questions and HR-based situational or behavioural ones.

Q3: How long does the SBI CBO interview last?
A3: Usually 15–25 minutes, depending on your responses and the panel’s depth of questioning.

Q4: How can I prepare effectively for the SBI CBO interview?
A4: Focus on recent RBI updates, SBI initiatives, and practise mock interviews for structured communication.

Q5: What weightage does the interview carry in the final selection?
A5: The interview carries 25% weightage, while the written test contributes 75% to the final merit list.