How to choose the right bank 

Choosing a bank to help you manage your finances is one of the most important financial decisions you will make. Your bank will be a key player when you need a loan to buy a car, pay in instalments for a new refrigerator, start to invest, and save for the future.

That's why it's essential to choose a bank that makes it easier for you to manage your finances, meets your current needs, and helps you achieve your future goals. After all, this is the place you will entrust with your hard-earned money. 

Here's what you should consider before choosing a bank:

1. Look for a bank that supports your lifestyle

With many banks to choose from, it can be overwhelming. But by focusing on your banking needs and priorities, you can narrow down your options and find the bank that's right for you.

For example, if saving is a priority for you, look for a bank that offers a savings account with interest or lets you create multiple saving goals under different names/categories that can help you track your progress towards specific targets, such as building an emergency fund or saving for the renewal of your car licence. 

Here's another example. Let's say you have a business. In this case, you would need to find a bank that can support your business needs and help you grow. Look for one that offers features specifically designed for businesses, such as the Etihad for Business platform.

2. Consider bank accessibility

Whether you prefer to do your banking in person or online, make sure to choose a bank that's easily accessible to you. If you prefer to visit branches, make sure the bank you're considering has branches close to your home or workplace. 

And even if you don't prefer to visit branches, make sure that there's an ATM near you. This way, you won't waste time driving whenever you want to withdraw cash.

3. Choose a digitally advanced bank

Nowadays, almost all banks provide electronic services through mobile apps. But some apps are easier to use, more advanced, and offer more features than others.

Choosing a bank with an advanced digital infrastructure can save you time and make your life easier. Imagine having to visit the bank every time you want to pay back a friend for a meal when you can split the bill on our mobile banking app! 

Or having to visit the bank to replace your expired card or postpone a loan instalment when you can also do that through the app.

That's why it's important to compare banking apps and electronic services before choosing a bank. Are they user-friendly? Do they offer the services you need? And don't forget to check the reviews and ratings on the app store to better understand how other customers have experienced them. 

By the way, did you know that our app is the most rated app in Jordan on Android and iOS, with ratings of 4.8 and 4.6? We also won the Best Mobile Banking award for the year 2022 by International Business Magazine. 

4. Look for the best customer service

Imagine waking up in the middle of the night with a pressing banking question on your mind. Could you go back to sleep without an answer? Probably not. 

That's why it's crucial to find a bank that offers around-the-clock support through multiple channels, such as a call centre and chat through their mobile app, as well as in-person assistance during official working hours at a branch.

And make sure that the customer service team works efficiently to provide the best possible service and is friendly! There's nothing worse than having a question or problem and dealing with an unhelpful or impolite employee. 

5. Ask about other products and services

If your banking needs go beyond simply opening a current account and applying for a credit card, look into the bank's other products and services. These can include financial literacy workshops for individuals and SMEs, investment options, and wealth management services.

6. Look for added benefits and rewards 

Some banks offer exclusive benefits to reward their existing customers for their loyalty and attract new ones. For example, some banks offer exclusive discounts from certain stores to their card users, and some offer cashback on customers' purchases when using bank cards.

At Bank al Etihad, we offer both! Learn more here.

Considering Bank al Etihad? 

If you're looking for a financial partner to accompany you as you shape your financial future, why not check out what we have to offer?

You can start your journey with us by downloading our mobile banking app and opening an account in just a few minutes by following the steps here.