Sample

Interview Questions: Finance

Question: Why do you want to do investment
banking/investment management/whatever
career you plan to pursue?
Answer: This is a question you are almost
guaranteed to receive. First and foremost, you
must emphasize that you know what the finance
department in which you are interviewing does.
When asked the question, you need not state
that youve yearned to be in finance your life, but
you should illustrate succinctly that you know
the job functions of the position for which you
are interviewing, that you enjoy performing
these functions and that you have developed the
core skills required (i.e., analytical ability, good
communication skills and, of course, a strong
work ethic and willingness to put in the hours to
do the job). Dont say that youre in it for the
money.

Question: What motivates you?
Answer: Think through this one. First of all, you
should indicate that you are highly motivated.
Second, remember the profile that finance
interviews are generally looking for. Appropriate
answers include financial security, problem-
solving, deadlines, managing risk and
productivity. Again, be prepared to give
examples.

Question: What is the biggest risk youve ever
taken?
Answer: Those interested in investment

management, private equity, venture capital and

market-based positions will likely get this
question. Be sure to talk about the personal or
professional risk you took, as well as why you
believed it was worth the risk.

Question: Where do you see yourself in five
years? 10 years?
Answer: This is a popular question for MBAs, as
firms are looking to make a long-term
investment in these new employees. Recent
college graduates should be prepared to talk
about their goals too, but its often assumed that
the turnover for these employees is higher.
Regardless, be sure to research the hierarchy of
the firm, as well as where most graduates in
your shoes are in five years at the firm.

Question: Give me an example of a project
that youve done that involved heavy
analytical thinking.
Answer: Candidates without a financial
background should have an answer prepared for
this question that describes a work or school
project, focusing on the part that required a lot
of number crunching.

Question: Tell me about an accomplishment
that you are proud of.
Answer: This is your chance to shine.
Remember: team-oriented, analytical,
hardworking and dependable.