Mock Interview Script (Entry-Level AML/KYC Role)

Last Updated on Aug 04, 2025, 2k Views

Mock Interview Script (Entry-Level AML/KYC Role)

Interviewer: Tell me about yourself.

You:

“I’m a [your current or most recent role, e.g., recent graduate in accounting / customer service professional] with strong attention to detail and a growing interest in financial crime prevention. I’ve recently completed a certification in AML/KYC where I learned about customer due diligence, transaction monitoring, and red flags in money laundering. I’m now looking to apply those skills in a compliance-focused environment and grow into an AML analyst or KYC specialist role.”

Interviewer: What is AML and why is it important?

You:
“AML stands for Anti-Money Laundering. It includes policies and procedures used by financial institutions to detect and prevent money laundering, terrorism financing, and other financial crimes. It’s important because it protects the financial system from abuse and ensures institutions meet regulatory obligations.”

Interviewer: Can you walk me through a basic KYC process?

You:
“Sure. A basic KYC process starts with collecting identification documents from the customer—like a passport, utility bill, or company registration papers for businesses. The next step is verifying the identity, checking if the customer is a politically exposed person (PEP) or on a sanctions list. Then, a risk rating is assigned. For higher-risk customers, enhanced due diligence (EDD) is performed. Finally, the account is monitored continuously for suspicious activity.”

Interviewer: What would you do if you noticed suspicious activity?

You:
“I would follow the company’s escalation procedure. First, I’d gather all relevant transaction details, ensure the facts are documented clearly, and then report the case to the compliance officer or designated investigator. If it meets the internal threshold, a Suspicious Activity Report (SAR) would be prepared.”

Interviewer: Do you have experience with Excel or any compliance tools?

You:

“Yes, I’m comfortable using Excel for data entry, filtering, and basic analysis like identifying patterns or anomalies. While I haven’t yet used compliance tools like World-Check or Actimize in a live environment, I’ve watched training demos and completed coursework to understand how they support sanctions screening and transaction monitoring.”

Interviewer: Why do you want to work in AML/KYC?

You:
“I’m really interested in financial crime prevention and regulatory compliance. AML/KYC roles combine research, risk assessment, and investigative work—areas that align with both my skills and interests. I also value working in a field that contributes to public trust and global financial integrity.”

Interviewer: Any questions for us?

You:
“Yes, thank you. What kind of onboarding or training do new hires receive? Also, what does growth look like in your AML/KYC team over the next year?”