ING Consultant interview questions & guide 2026

The following questions are representative of the patterns observed in recent ING interview cycles. While exact questions vary by department, these categories will help you structure your preparation.

Financial & Domain Expertise

These questions test your understanding of the banking industry and your ability to apply financial concepts to real-world scenarios.

• How would you explain the shift toward online financial services to a non-expert?
• Can you describe your experience with specific financial modules or tools?

Preparation for ING requires a balanced approach. You must demonstrate both the technical "hard skills" required for the specific project and the cultural "soft skills" necessary to thrive in a large, global organization.

Role-related Knowledge – You must demonstrate a solid grasp of your specific domain, whether that is sustainability, IT, or financial analysis. Interviewers will expect you to speak confidently about past projects and the tools you utilized to achieve results.

Problem-solving Ability – ING values candidates who can decompose complex challenges into manageable steps. Practice structuring your answers using a clear, logical framework, especially when presented with business cases.

Leadership & Influence – As a Consultant, you will often lead initiatives without direct authority over every team member. Show how you persuade others, build consensus, and drive projects forward through effective communication.

Culture Fit – ING prides itself on being a large company with a personal, accessible culture. Demonstrate that you are a team player who is comfortable in a "front-facing" environment where managers expect open, direct communication.

The interview process at ING is designed to be thorough, often involving a mix of HR screens, technical deep dives, and case-based assessments. You should expect a professional, fast-paced progression where you will interact with various stakeholders—from peers and managers to potential partners. The process is characterized by its focus on transparency; recruiters are generally communicative, and the environment is often described as welcoming and structured.

The visual timeline above illustrates the standard progression from initial screening to final decision. Interpret this as a guide for managing your energy; while the early rounds focus on your background and alignment, the later stages will require deep technical or case-based preparation. Note that timelines can vary significantly based on your location and the specific hiring team.

Business Acumen & Strategy

This area evaluates your ability to see the "big picture." You are expected to connect your technical work to the broader goals of ING.

• Be ready to go over: Strategic alignment, market trends in digital banking, and the impact of sustainability regulations.
• Advanced concepts: Cross-border operational challenges and long-term financial forecasting.
• Example scenarios: "How would you optimize a specific service module for better user retention?"

As a Consultant, you are the engine behind project delivery. Your day-to-day involves constant communication with cross-functional teams, including developers, product owners, and senior management. You will be expected to:

• Translate complex business requirements into actionable project plans.
• Collaborate with international teams to ensure consistency across regional offices.
• Lead or contribute to business cases that justify investment in new digital tools or sustainability efforts.
• Act as a bridge between technical teams and stakeholders to ensure project milestones are met.

A strong candidate for this position blends technical proficiency with high-level interpersonal skills.

• Must-have skills:
  • Proven experience in a consulting or analytical role.
  • Strong proficiency in financial or technical domain knowledge relevant to the position.
  • Excellent command of English, as you will be working in international environments.
  • Ability to synthesize information and present it to senior stakeholders.
• Nice-to-have skills:
  • Experience with large-scale digital transformation projects.
  • Familiarity with sustainability frameworks or ESG reporting.
  • Experience working in a matrix organization.

Q: How difficult are the interviews? A: Difficulty varies, but many candidates describe the process as rigorous. You should be prepared for detailed technical questions and situational cases that require thoughtful, structured answers.

Q: What is the typical timeline? A: The process can move quickly, often involving 2–3 rounds of interviews over a few weeks. However, always confirm the specific timeline with your recruiter during the initial screen.

Q: Is there a specific culture I should be aware of? A: ING values direct, professional communication. You will find that managers often prefer a "front" and honest approach, so do not shy away from being transparent about your experiences and limitations.

Q: Will I be expected to work with international teams? A: Yes, particularly for roles based in hubs like Amsterdam. Be prepared to discuss how you manage communication across different time zones and cultural contexts.

• Structure your answers: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to keep your behavioral answers concise and impactful.
• Prepare for the "Why": Have a clear, compelling reason why you want to work for ING specifically, rather than another financial institution.
• Be ready for feedback: ING recruiters are known to be helpful; if you do not get the role, ask for feedback—it is a great way to learn for future applications.
• Showcase your "soft" side: Even in technical roles, your ability to put others at ease and work within a team is a major evaluation point.

The Consultant role at ING is a unique opportunity to shape the future of digital banking. By mastering your domain knowledge, practicing structured problem-solving, and demonstrating an ability to navigate complex stakeholder landscapes, you will position yourself as a top-tier candidate. Remember that the interviewers are not just looking for a set of skills; they are looking for a colleague who aligns with the collaborative and innovative spirit of the bank.

Your preparation is the most significant factor in your success. Use the insights provided here to refine your narrative, anticipate the types of questions you will face, and approach your interviews with confidence. You have the potential to make a significant impact at ING, so stay focused, stay analytical, and be yourself throughout the process.

The salary data provides a benchmark for the compensation you might expect. Use these figures to inform your expectations during contract negotiations, keeping in mind that total compensation at ING often includes performance-based components and benefits that should be considered alongside the base salary.