Whether applying for a credit card, a home mortgage, or a student loan, you need to go through an approval process. And that's where loan interviewers and clerks come in. They play a vital role in helping lending institutions determine if you are a good or bad credit risk. They do this by examining your credit history.

The first step is often interviewing the loan applicant, either in person or on the phone. Speaking clearly, listening carefully, and taking accurate notes are essential qualities. Familiarity with computers and fluency in a second language are additional skills employers look for.

After gathering the necessary information, these workers then do fact-checking. Calls go out to credit bureaus, employers, and banks. Clerks keep loan documents organized. They process the paperwork - making sure information is complete.

A high school diploma or its equivalent is usually required. On-the-job training is often available. The work is in an office during regular business hours. However, evenings and weekends may be needed to accommodate applicants.

Because of technology, the number of jobs in this area is declining. Automated approval systems require fewer workers. Loan interviewers and clerks play a fundamental role in the financial health of our national economy.