Investment Banking Interview Questions Why Investment Banking?

When answering the question "Why do you want to work in investment banking?" you must make it clear that you are only interested in working in investment banking (even if you have an interest in other jobs in other industries). Your interviewers are only looking for people focussed on a career in investment banking. You should also be prepared for questions asking why you have applied for the position you have applied for, rather than others. You should not say you are interested in multiple positions - just the role you have applied for.

You must also have a great explanation of how and why you became interested in investment banking, (other than financial!)

Answering the Question

The most successful candidates will be able to construct a unique and developed answer to this question with little thought. To get to this level, consider the following regarding investment banking:

• The growth and development opportunities available to graduate in investment banking;
• Learning about structuring M&A deals;
• Finding out about Strategic Advisory and other aspects of investment banking;
• The transactional nature of the business;
• Working with some of the world's smartest people;
• The educational experience and world class training;
• Developing a fuller, more well-rounded business acumen;
• The extremely challenging nature of Analyst and Associate positions, and;
• Working in what you believe is the pinnacle of the financial system.

At interview, be prepared to explain why you are interested in these things, for example, by explaining a long-term interest in finance, the city, economics and mathematics.

Emphasize that you know investment banking is what you want to do as a career and that you are ready for this opportunity. Enthusiasm, passion and career motivation is thoroughly important during your investment banking interviews.

When answering this question, try to drive home your main points from your initial "Tell me about yourself?" response. Explain that you want to work hard, work in a strong team, and be involved in analytical and quantitative problems on a daily basis. Always be concise and try to make your points as quickly and as intelligently as possible.