In a typical work setting, loan officers:

Interpersonal Relationships

• Have a medium level of social contact. They talk to customers, but also spend time alone reviewing applications.
• Communicate by telephone, e-mail, and in person on a daily basis. They also write letters and memos.
• Are moderately responsible for the work done by the loan clerks they supervise.
• Are sometimes placed in conflict situations where customers might be rude or angry.
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• Often work as part of a team.

Physical Work Conditions

• Work indoors, except when visiting customers or inspecting properties.
• May work close to others, such as when sharing office space.

Work Performance

• Must be very exact in their work and be sure all details are done. Errors on loan applications or in analyses could cause the bank to make bad loans.
• Make decisions on a daily and weekly basis that greatly impact customers and their company's reputation.
• Make most decisions without consulting a supervisor first.
• Set nearly all their daily tasks and goals without consulting a supervisor first.
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• Work in a competitive atmosphere where strict daily and weekly deadlines must be met.
• Repeat the same physical and mental activities.

Hours/Travel

• Usually work at least 40 hours per week.
• May work a lot of overtime during periods when home sales and refinancing are heavy. This applies mainly to mortgage loan officers.
• May travel around town to visit customers, inspect properties, and conduct loan negotiations.
• May travel to other cities or states to set up complex loan agreements. This applies mainly to commercial loan officers.
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• Generally work a set schedule.