For some people Tesco Bank is a really exciting idea. They know and trust Tesco, it's part of their daily routine, and a shop they rely on to deliver quality and value, so it's a refreshing alternative to banks who have plummeted in our estimation in recent years.

For others its a global brand built on sleight of hand, arranging offers and deals to make them look as generous as possible while giving away as little as possible - which is the kind of rubbish we have come to expect from banks in the last couple of years.

So as the high street giant launches its recruitment drive, it's time to decide where you stand. Will this be a good place to work or to bank?
As an employer?
Tesco is really investing in this departure. Tesco Bank announced in October that it would be creating 1,000 new jobs in a customer contact centre at Quorum Business Park, Newcastle in addition to a further 800 full time jobs in One Broadway, Glasgow. It has set up a recruitment website, and says interest has already been very high.

So what does a career with the bank offer? The website reckons it's a delight and a joy, offering opportunity, respect, help from your manager and an interesting job.

Mind you, elsewhere on the site it reveals that the reality may be somewhat harder. It says your role will involve: "Enjoying face-to-face contact with our customers, you will raise awareness of our products and services while also providing expert and professional information. As the face to face channel for Tesco Bank you will be working to ensure that the customer has the best experience possible."

It's a fair bet that some of that face-to-face contact will be with people who really don't want to know, and may express themselves in no uncertain terms, so it won't be all hearts and flowers.

However, in return, you do get to work for one of the few companies that is currently growing. You get a reasonable pay packet, and an impressive range of benefits including a decent pension. And that's not to be sniffed at in the current environment.

As a customer?
The jury is still out on what the products will offer. Looking at the existing range, it's a bit of a mixed bag. Something like the pet insurance offers a cheap and cheerful solution, although it's not going to cover every animal's needs. Likewise the car insurance suits some people, but will be more expensive for others. The end result is going to be that as ever you cannot just put your faith in the brand and buy all your financial products from one place. You'll need to take each one on its merits, compare it to the rest of the market, and make the decision that's right for you.

There will be those who are naturally inclined to put some business Tesco's way, and if the banking products suit you, and the convenience appeals, then there's no reason why not.

And there will be those who wouldn't touch Tesco with a bargepole. If you feel this way, you may choose to steer clear. Even if they have the most competitive product for you, and even if their banking offering turns out to be market-leading, if it pains you to walk through the doors, it's just not worth the grief.

For those in the middle, this remains a really interesting development well worth watching for any potential, whether it's as an employer or a bank.