Are you preparing for a loan officer interview and feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone.

We understand your concerns and are here to help. In this article, we’ll provide comprehensive answers to the 15 most common loan officer interview questions.

What Qualities And Skills Are Hiring Managers Looking For In A Loan Officer?

In the fast-paced world of lending, hiring managers seek loan officers who possess a unique blend of qualities and skills. As you embark on your journey to becoming a loan officer, it’s important to understand what sets you apart and catches the attention of potential employers. So, what are these sought-after qualities and skills that will make you stand out with confidence and expertise?

Adaptability and Resilience

Lending is an ever-evolving industry with changing regulations, market trends, and customer expectations. Loan officers who can adapt quickly to these changes are highly valued.

Employers seek individuals who are open to learning, embrace new technologies, and are eager to stay ahead of the curve. Highlight your flexibility and willingness to embrace new challenges, and showcase instances where you successfully navigated industry shifts.

Exceptional Communication Skills

Clear and effective communication is paramount for a loan officer’s success. Hiring managers look for candidates who can articulate complex financial concepts in a simple and relatable manner.

As a loan officer, you will frequently interact with clients, colleagues, and external stakeholders, so the ability to convey information concisely and professionally is essential. Moreover, active listening skills are equally vital, enabling you to understand borrowers’ needs, address concerns, and offer tailored solutions.

Analytical and Problem-Solving Abilities

Loan officers are responsible for financial documents, evaluating creditworthiness, and making sound lending decisions. Hiring managers value candidates who exhibit keen attention to detail and a strong analytical aptitude.

Your ability to meticulously review loan applications, verify supporting documentation, and identify any potential risks or red flags will set you apart.

Demonstrating proficiency in financial analysis, including assessing income statements, credit reports, and debt-to-income ratios, will inspire confidence in hiring managers regarding your ability to make informed lending judgments.

Customer Service Orientation:

Exceptional customer service skills are an indispensable asset for loan officers. Lending institutions prioritize candidates who genuinely care about providing exceptional service and putting customers’ needs first.

Everyone wants to work with a loan officer who’ll be attentive, patient, and responsive, ensuring that borrowers feel supported throughout the loan application and approval process.

By showcasing your commitment to delivering outstanding customer service, you will prove your dedication to exceeding expectations and providing a positive borrowing experience.

Expert Knowledge and Industry Experience

At the foundation of an exceptional loan officer is a deep understanding of the lending industry. Hiring managers prioritize candidates who possess comprehensive knowledge of lending principles, regulations, and procedures.

Demonstrating your familiarity with different types of loans, such as mortgages, personal loans, and business loans, will significantly bolster your candidacy.

Furthermore, highlighting your prior experience in the financial sector or in a lending institution will showcase your ability to navigate the intricacies of the loan process.

15 Most Common Loan Officer Interview Questions And Answers

We’ve listed 15 possible questions to help you prepare for your upcoming loan officer interviews.

General Interview Questions

Your interviewer would ask you a series of general interview questions to gain insights into your background, motivations, strengths, personality, and suitability for the role you’re applying for. Mastering these questions will help you set a strong foundation for a successful interview.

1. Can You Tell Us A Little Bit About Yourself And Your Background?

This question allows the hiring manager to assess your overall fit for the position and gain insights into your background, experience, and motivations. It might seem basic, but it offers a chance for hiring managers to get a glimpse of who you are beyond your resume.

In your response, skip the part about yourself that involves your dogs, hobbies, favorite meal, party preference, or position in the family. Only provide background details that are relevant to assess your suitability for the loan officer role, including your experiences, skills, and personal qualities.

Do’s

  • Briefly highlight your relevant educational background and any certifications or licenses.
  • Summarize your professional experience in the lending industry.
  • Mention key achievements or notable projects that demonstrate your skills and expertise.

Don’ts

  • Avoid discussing personal information that is not relevant to the role.
  • Do not provide a lengthy autobiography; keep your response concise and focused.

Sample Answer:

“Certainly! I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Finance and have been working in the lending industry for the past five years. During my career, I have gained extensive experience in assessing creditworthiness, evaluating loan applications, and ensuring compliance with lending regulations. In my previous role, I successfully managed a diverse portfolio of clients, helping them secure financing for their financial goals. I am passionate about helping individuals and businesses achieve their dreams through strategic lending solutions.”

2. Why Did You Decide To Pursue A Career As A Loan Officer?

This question delves into your motivations and passion for the lending industry. Hiring managers want to understand if you have a genuine interest in the field and if you’re committed to helping borrowers navigate the complex world of loans. Your response helps them gauge your dedication and enthusiasm for the role and assess your long-term commitment to the industry.

Do’s

  • Express your genuine interest in the lending industry and in helping borrowers navigate their financial goals.
  • Highlight any personal experiences or encounters that inspired you to pursue a career as a loan officer.
  • Emphasize the satisfaction you derive from making a positive impact on individuals’ lives through responsible lending.

Don’ts

  • Avoid generic or superficial reasons that could apply to any job.
  • Do not focus solely on the financial aspects; demonstrate your passion for helping people achieve their dreams through tailored lending solutions.

Sample Answer:

“I decided to pursue a career as a Loan Officer because I have always been fascinated by the financial world and the opportunity to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. I find it rewarding to assist individuals and businesses in securing the financing they need to achieve their goals. Being able to analyze complex financial information, provide guidance, and see the positive impact of my work on borrowers’ lives is incredibly fulfilling to me.”

3. What Are Your Greatest Strengths And Weaknesses, And How Do They Relate To The Role Of A Loan Officer?

This question seeks to evaluate your self-awareness and how well your strengths align with the requirements of a loan officer.

Hiring managers want to know if you possess the necessary skills for the job. Discussing your weaknesses shows that you are introspective and open to personal and professional growth. Of course, don’t prattle on about weaknesses that have absolutely no bearing on the job interview in question, instead mention those that are vital to your functioning as a loan officer. 

Do’s

  • Identify strengths that align with the key qualities and skills of a loan officer, such as attention to detail, strong analytical abilities, customer service orientation, and effective communication.
  • Discuss weaknesses that you are actively working on improving or turning into strengths.
  • Relate your strengths and weaknesses to specific aspects of the loan officer role and how they contribute to your effectiveness.

Don’ts

  • Avoid generic strengths and weaknesses that do not directly relate to the loan officer role.
  • Do not present weaknesses essential for the role or show a lack of suitability.

Sample Answer:

Strength: “One of my greatest strengths is my attention to detail. I am meticulous when reviewing loan applications, verifying supporting documentation, and ensuring compliance with lending guidelines. This attention to detail allows me to identify potential risks and make informed lending decisions.”

Weakness: “One area I’ve been actively working on improving is my time management skills. As a loan officer, it’s crucial to be able to handle multiple tasks and deadlines efficiently. In the past, I sometimes found myself struggling to prioritize and allocate my time effectively. However, I have taken steps to address this weakness by implementing various time management techniques and utilizing productivity tools. I am constantly seeking feedback and learning from more experienced colleagues to enhance my abilities and ensure that I consistently meet or exceed deadlines.”

Relating to the role: “As a loan officer, attention to detail is crucial to accurately evaluate creditworthiness and ensure compliance with regulations. Additionally, my commitment to continuous improvement helps me refine my skills and provide borrowers with exceptional service while maintaining high-quality standards.”

4. How Do You Handle Stressful Situations And Tight Deadlines?

The loan officer role often involves managing multiple tasks and meeting strict deadlines. This question allows hiring managers to assess your ability to handle stress and maintain composure. They want to see if you can effectively prioritize tasks, work efficiently under stress, and deliver results without compromising the quality of your work.

Do’s

  • Discuss strategies you use to stay organized and prioritize tasks when faced with tight deadlines.
  • Mention your ability to remain calm and focused in stressful situations.
  • Highlight your problem-solving skills and adaptability when unexpected challenges arise.

Don’ts

  • Avoid portraying yourself as someone who gets easily overwhelmed by stress.
  • Do not undermine the importance of deadlines or downplay the challenges associated with them.

Sample Answer:

“When faced with stressful situations and tight deadlines, I thrive by staying organized and prioritizing tasks effectively. I create a detailed plan, breaking down larger projects into smaller, manageable steps. This allows me to allocate my time wisely and ensure I meet deadlines without compromising the quality of my work. I also maintain open communication with colleagues and clients, proactively addressing any potential roadblocks or delays. By staying calm, focused, and adaptable, I can navigate stressful situations while delivering results.”

5. Can You Provide An Example Of A Time You Had To Deal With A Difficult Client? How Did You Handle The Situation?

Interacting with clients is a significant part of a loan officer’s job, and not all clients are easy to handle. This question aims to gauge your ability to handle challenging client interactions with professionalism and problem-solving skills.

Hiring managers want to know if you can empathize with clients, address their concerns effectively, and maintain positive relationships.

Do’s

  • Share a specific example of a difficult client interaction, maintaining confidentiality.
  • Explain the steps you took to understand the client’s concerns and address their issues effectively.
  • Highlight your ability to remain calm, empathetic, and professional while finding a mutually beneficial resolution.

Don’ts

  • Avoid blaming the client or portraying the situation as their fault.
  • Do not share confidential information or breach professional ethics.

Sample Answer:

“Certainly. In a previous role, I encountered a difficult client who was frustrated with the loan approval process. They felt that the requirements were burdensome and did not fully understand certain aspects of the application. To address the situation, I actively listened to their concerns and empathized with their frustrations. I took the time to explain the loan process in a clear and concise manner, breaking down complex terms into more accessible language. Additionally, I provided ongoing updates, ensuring transparency and setting realistic expectations. By establishing open lines of communication and demonstrating my commitment to their satisfaction, we were able to resolve their concerns, rebuild trust, and successfully navigate the loan process together.”

Technical Interview Questions

The next thing interviewers want to test is your working-knowledge of industry laws, practices, and the financial landscape in general. These questions allow you to demonstrate your ability to handle the challenges that come with the role.

6. How Do You Stay Up-To-Date With The Latest Regulations And Lending Guidelines In The Financial Industry?

In the dynamic world of finance, staying up-to-date with the latest regulations and lending guidelines is essential for loan officers.

Hiring managers want to ensure that you possess the drive and dedication to remain knowledgeable and compliant. By actively seeking out information and resources, you demonstrate your ability to navigate the intricate web of regulations and maintain ethical lending practices.

Do’s

Don’ts

  • Avoid mentioning outdated or unreliable sources of information.
  • Do not downplay the significance of staying current with regulations and lending guidelines.

Sample Answer:

“Staying up-to-date with the latest regulations and lending guidelines is vital to ensuring compliance and providing reliable service to borrowers. I regularly subscribe to industry newsletters and publications such as [mention specific publications]. Additionally, I actively participate in webinars and seminars offered by professional associations like [mention relevant association]. I also make it a priority to maintain any necessary certifications, such as [mention relevant certification], which requires continuous education and staying informed about regulatory changes in the lending industry.”

7. How Do You Determine The Creditworthiness Of An Applicant? Can You Walk Us Through The Process?

The ability to assess creditworthiness is at the core of a loan officer’s responsibilities. Hiring managers want to gauge your understanding of the process and your proficiency in analyzing credit-related factors.

By articulating a well-defined and systematic approach, you demonstrate your expertise in evaluating credit history, income stability, debt-to-income ratio, and other key indicators. This reassures hiring managers that you possess the analytical skills necessary for making informed lending decisions.

Do’s

  • Provide a step-by-step explanation of your credit assessment process, including key factors you consider, such as credit history, income stability, debt-to-income ratio, and collateral (if applicable).
  • Mention any specific tools or software you use to analyze credit reports and financial statements.
  • Emphasize the importance of a comprehensive evaluation to ensure responsible lending and risk mitigation.

Don’ts

  • Avoid oversimplifying the creditworthiness assessment process.
  • Do not overlook the significance of verifying information and conducting thorough due diligence.

Sample Answer:

“When determining the creditworthiness of an applicant, I follow a thorough process to assess their financial stability and ability to repay the loan. First, I review their credit history, analyzing factors such as payment history, utilization of credit, and any derogatory marks. I also evaluate their income stability, considering factors like employment history and consistency of income. Calculating the debt-to-income ratio helps me gauge their ability to manage additional debt responsibly. If collateral is involved, I assess its value and condition. I use credit analysis software to compile and analyze credit reports and financial statements. This comprehensive evaluation ensures that I make informed lending decisions based on a holistic understanding of the borrower’s financial situation.”

8. Can You Describe A Time When You Had To Decline A Loan Application? How Did You Handle The Situation, And How Did You Explain The Decision To The Applicant?

This question is crucial as it evaluates your ability to handle delicate situations and deliver difficult news in a professional and empathetic manner.

As a loan officer, you will encounter situations where declining a loan application becomes necessary due to various factors. Hiring managers want to assess your communication skills, emotional intelligence, and your ability to handle rejection sensitively.

Do’s

  • Describe a specific situation where you had to decline a loan application, focusing on maintaining empathy and professionalism.
  • Explain how you communicated the decision to the applicant, highlighting the reasons for the decline and offering alternative options or guidance if applicable.
  • Emphasize the importance of providing clear and transparent explanations to help applicants understand the decision and explore alternative solutions.

Don’ts

  • Avoid discussing personal details or sensitive information about the applicant’s financial situation.
  • Do not portray the situation negatively or place blame solely on the applicant.

Sample Answer:

“In a recent situation, I had to decline a loan application due to the applicant’s high debt-to-income ratio exceeding our lending guidelines. I approached the conversation with empathy and explained the reasons for the decline, emphasizing responsible lending practices and risk mitigation. While declining, I offered guidance on improving their financial situation and alternative loan options. By maintaining transparent communication, I aimed to help the applicant understand our decision and explore other financing avenues.”

9. How Do You Handle Loan Applicants With Poor Credit Or Insufficient Financial Documentation? What Alternative Loan Options Would You Consider?

This question assesses your flexibility in working with applicants who may have challenging credit profiles or limited financial documentation.

Loan officers often encounter applicants with poor credit or limited financial documentation. Hiring managers want to assess your flexibility and resourcefulness in finding suitable solutions for these individuals.

By demonstrating your knowledge of alternative loan options and your ability to customize loan structures, you showcase your ability to adapt to varying circumstances and help borrowers achieve their financing goals. This reassures hiring managers that you can navigate complex situations and provide valuable assistance to a diverse range of loan applicants.

Do’s

  • Explain your approach to assisting applicants with poor credit or insufficient documentation, emphasizing your commitment to finding suitable solutions.
  • Mention alternative loan programs or options available for borrowers with less-than-perfect credit or limited documentation, such as government-backed loans or specialized loan programs.
  • Highlight your ability to analyze the applicant’s overall financial situation and assess their creditworthiness beyond traditional criteria.

Don’ts

  • Avoid making promises or guarantees regarding loan approval for applicants with poor credit or insufficient documentation.
  • Do not disregard the importance of responsible lending practices and risk assessment.

Sample Answer:

“When working with loan applicants who have poor credit or insufficient financial documentation, I take a comprehensive approach to understand their overall financial situation. I review alternative loan options, such as government-backed loans like FHA, VA, or USDA loans, which may have more flexible requirements. These programs can be a great opportunity for borrowers with less-than-perfect credit or limited documentation to secure financing. Moreover, I carefully assess the applicant’s income stability, employment history, and other relevant factors to determine their creditworthiness beyond traditional criteria. By taking a holistic view and considering alternative loan options, I strive to help applicants find suitable financing solutions that align with their unique circumstances.”

10. How Do You Ensure Compliance With Fair Lending Practices And Avoid Discriminatory Lending?

Violating the Federal Fair Housing Act is a big offense in the industry. It’s no news that loan officers face the possibility of fines up to $100,000 or up to twenty years in prison if they are caught engaging in willful discrimination based on race or ethnicity. Now you see why this question carries significant weight.

Compliance with fair lending practices is of utmost importance in the financial industry. Hiring managers want to ensure that you are well-versed in the regulations surrounding fair lending and that you actively work to prevent discriminatory lending practices.

By demonstrating your knowledge of fair lending laws, your commitment to equal treatment of all applicants, and your implementation of policies and procedures to ensure compliance, you showcase your dedication to maintaining a fair and inclusive lending environment.

Do’s

  • Discuss your familiarity with fair lending laws and regulations, such as the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA) and the Fair Housing Act (FHA).
  • Explain the steps you take to ensure compliance, such as providing equal opportunities to all applicants, conducting unbiased evaluations, and treating all borrowers with fairness and respect.
  • Highlight any training or certifications you have completed related to fair lending practices, such as the American Bankers Association Fair Lending Training or the NMLS mortgage license certification.

Don’ts

  • Avoid underestimating the importance of fair lending practices or the consequences of non-compliance.
  • Do not overlook the significance of ongoing training and staying updated on fair lending regulations.

Sample Answer:

“Ensuring compliance with fair lending practices and preventing discriminatory lending is very important in my role as a loan officer. I am well-versed in fair lending laws, including the Equal Credit Opportunity Act and the Fair Housing Act, and I actively integrate these principles into my daily practices. I treat all loan applicants equally, providing them with the same opportunities and evaluating their applications based on objective criteria. I take care to avoid any bias or discrimination, adhering to the principle of fairness throughout the loan approval process. Additionally, I have completed training on fair lending practices, obtained my license, and regularly reviewed updates to stay informed about any changes or developments in the regulatory landscape.”

11. How Do You Cultivate And Maintain Relationships With Real Estate Agents, Mortgage Brokers, And Other Industry Professionals?

As a loan officer, your network is part of your strengths, as oftentimes, loan officers have to collaborate with real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and other professionals to facilitate successful loan transactions.

Do’s

  • Explain your approach to building relationships with real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and other industry professionals.
  • Highlight your communication skills, including active listening and effective collaboration.
  • Mention any strategies you employ to stay in touch with contacts, such as attending industry events, providing valuable insights or resources, and maintaining regular communication.

Don’ts

  • Avoid exaggerating or making unrealistic claims about your relationships with industry professionals.
  • Do not overlook the importance of professionalism and respect in all interactions.

Sample Answer:

“As a loan officer, one of the key elements of my role revolves around nurturing relationships with real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and other professionals in the industry. I believe in clear and open communication, taking the time to truly listen to their needs and understand their unique business objectives. I strive to be a valuable resource for them, providing relevant insights, market updates, and industry-related information. To ensure that I stay connected and involved, I prioritize attending networking events, industry conferences, and local association meetings. Regular communication is essential in maintaining these relationships. I make a point of following up with phone calls and emails, ensuring that we stay engaged and connected. This consistent communication allows me to be top-of-mind when they have clients in need of financing solutions.”

12. Can You Discuss Your Experience With Loan Origination Software? Which Systems Have You Used, And How Proficient Are You In Their Use?

Proficiency in loan origination software is essential for loan officers to efficiently manage loan processes and ensure accurate documentation. Hiring managers want to assess your familiarity with different software systems and your ability to adapt to new technology.

By showcasing your experience with specific loan origination software systems and highlighting your proficiency in utilizing their features, you demonstrate your ability to navigate digital platforms effectively and streamline loan origination tasks.

Do’s

  • Provide a comprehensive overview of your experience with loan origination software, mentioning specific systems or platforms you have used.
  • Highlight your proficiency in using these systems, including any advanced features or functionalities you are familiar with.
  • Mention any additional software or tools you have used to streamline loan processing and improve efficiency.

Don’ts

  • Avoid overemphasizing your technical skills at the expense of other important qualities and competencies.
  • Do not underestimate the importance of adaptability and willingness to learn new software systems.

Sample Answer:

“Throughout my career as a loan officer, I have gained extensive experience with various loan origination software systems, including [mention specific systems]. These platforms have provided me with the tools necessary to efficiently manage loan applications, track documentation, and communicate with borrowers and other stakeholders. I am highly proficient in navigating these systems, utilizing their features to streamline processes and ensure accurate and timely loan processing. In addition to loan origination software, I have also used [mention other relevant software or tools], which has further enhanced my ability to manage loan workflows effectively.”

13. How Do You Deal With An Angry Client?

Every now and then, you’re bound to face a not-too-happy client. Hiring managers wants to know that you can handle such situations. Let your response show your ability to handle challenging client situations, diffuse tension, and maintain professionalism even in difficult circumstances.

Do’s

  • Explain your approach to handling angry clients, emphasizing the importance of active listening and empathy.
  • Highlight your ability to remain calm and composed while addressing the customer’s concerns.
  • Mention specific strategies or techniques you use to resolve conflicts and find mutually beneficial solutions.

Don’ts

  • Avoid dismissing or downplaying the customer’s anger or concerns.
  • Do not engage in confrontational or argumentative behavior.

Sample Answer:

“When faced with an angry customer, my approach is all about empathy and understanding. I genuinely listen to their concerns, allowing them to express their frustrations while keeping my own composure. I make sure to empathize and acknowledge any inconvenience or dissatisfaction they may be going through. I help them find a resolution that addresses their concerns while still following company policies and guidelines. Sometimes, that means exploring alternative options or offering additional assistance to ensure their satisfaction. By prioritizing effective communication and a customer-centered mindset, my goal is to transform a negative experience into a positive one and maintain the customer’s trust.”

14. Can You Explain How You Go About Assessing The Risk For A Loan?

Assessing the risk for a loan is a fundamental aspect of your role as a loan officer. A good loan officer should be able to analyze and assess the risk associated with lending decisions and consider factors that may impact loan repayment and borrower reliability.

By explaining your approach to risk assessment, you demonstrate your ability to identify potential risks and make sound lending decisions. This reassures hiring managers that you can effectively manage the risk associated with loan portfolios and protect the financial interests of the institution.

Do’s

  • Describe your process for assessing loan risk, highlighting key factors you consider, such as credit history, income stability, debt-to-income ratio, and collateral (if applicable).
  • Mention any risk assessment tools or models you have used to evaluate loan applications.
  • Emphasize the importance of conducting thorough due diligence and adhering to responsible lending practices.

Don’ts

  • Avoid oversimplifying the loan risk assessment process.
  • Do not disregard the significance of verifying information and conducting comprehensive risk evaluations.

Sample Answer:

“Assessing loan risk is crucial in my role as a loan officer. I evaluate various factors to determine the borrower’s reliability and repayment capability. This involves reviewing their credit history, analyzing income stability, and calculating debt-to-income ratio. I also consider collateral value and condition. I use risk assessment tools, models, and industry-specific metrics to evaluate loan applications. By conducting thorough due diligence and adhering to responsible lending practices, I aim to make informed decisions that minimize risk for both the borrower and the institution.”

15. How Do You Handle Loan Applications That Require Special Attention, Such As Government-Backed Loans (E.G., Fha, Va, Or Usda Loans)?

Loan officers often encounter loan applications that require special attention due to their unique characteristics or government-backed programs. Hiring managers want to assess your familiarity with these programs and your ability to navigate the associated requirements.

By showcasing your understanding of the documentation and eligibility criteria for government-backed loans and describing your experience in successfully processing such applications, you demonstrate your ability to handle complex loan scenarios and provide expert guidance to borrowers in loan applications that require additional considerations or documentation.

Do’s

  • Explain your experience and understanding of government-backed loan programs, such as FHA, VA, or USDA loans.
  • Highlight any specific training or certifications you have obtained related to these loan programs.
  • Emphasize your attention to detail and ability to navigate the specific requirements and documentation associated with these loans.

Don’ts

  • Avoid claiming expertise or experience in specialized loan programs without adequate knowledge or understanding.
  • Do not overlook the importance of accuracy and compliance when handling loan applications with additional requirements.

Sample Answer:

“Loan applications that involve specialized loan programs, such as FHA, VA, or USDA loans, require meticulous attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the specific requirements. I have experience working with these government-backed loan programs, having obtained specific training and certifications related to their guidelines and processes. I’m familiar with the specific documentation required for these loan applications, including the extra forms and disclosures unique to each program. By carefully reviewing borrower eligibility and ensuring the accuracy of the necessary paperwork, my goal is to simplify the loan application process and provide borrowers with a hassle-free and efficient experience.”

Conclusion

The loan officer interview is a critical step in your journey toward securing a rewarding career in the lending industry. In this article, we’ve explored the 15 most common interview questions for loan officers and provided comprehensive answers to help you prepare effectively.

By familiarizing yourself with these questions and practicing your responses, you are positioning yourself for success. Remember, preparation is key. Take the time to research the company, understand their values and mission, and align your answers accordingly. Tailor your responses to showcase your unique qualifications, experiences, and passion for the lending industry.

Beyond just providing answers, strive to make a connection with the interviewer. Show genuine enthusiasm for the role and the opportunity to contribute to the success of the organization. Remember, the interview is not just about showcasing your qualifications; it’s about demonstrating that you are the right fit for the company culture and values.