Investment banking interviews often ask candidates why they are interested in investment banking. This is considered one of the most important questions that tests candidates’ motivation and understanding of the industry. A strong answer requires highlighting your passion, knowledge of the job, and fit. Mention why you are drawn to the fast-paced and intellectually challenging work environment. Provide relevant examples of prior experiences such as finance internships or coursework that sparked your interest. Tell a compelling story that conveys your enthusiasm. Avoid generic responses about prestige or compensation. Demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the day-to-day roles and discuss how your skills align with the needs of the job. Research the specific bank and tailor your answer. Investment banking interviews aim to gauge passion and aptitude, so thoughtful preparation of your ‘why investment banking’ response can make a major impact.
passion for the work
A ‘why investment banking’ answer must convey genuine enthusiasm and passion for the work. Avoid generic statements about the prestige of investment banking. Instead, provide thoughtful reasons why you are intrinsically motivated by the job duties. Mention being energized by analyzing companies, financial modeling, managing transactions, building client relationships, etc. Give specific examples of projects or internship experiences that got you excited about these aspects of the role.
understanding of day-to-day responsibilities
It’s essential to demonstrate you understand what the day-to-day life of an investment banking analyst entails. Mention interests in financial analysis, modeling, preparing pitchbooks, due diligence, executing deals, etc. Your answer will be stronger if you can incorporate terminology of specific product groups based on the bank’s focus areas. Conveying nuanced understanding of the job proves you have done your research beyond surface-level perceptions of the banker lifestyle.
alignment of skills and interests
A strong ‘why investment banking’ answer explains why your skills, experiences and interests make you a great fit for the job. Highlight specific hard and soft skills you possess that align with investment banking. Technical expertise in financial modeling, accounting, Excel, PowerPoint, financial analysis and business writing are key. Also emphasize critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, work ethic, communication abilities and being a team player.
background experiences demonstrating interest
Back up your interest in investment banking by highlighting relevant experiences in your background. Class projects involving valuation analysis, internships at banks, finance-related extracurriculars and job shadowing all demonstrate early interest in the field. Be specific about projects and responsibilities that got you excited about banking.
fit with the specific bank
Customize your ‘why investment banking’ answer to the particular bank by emphasizing fit with their specific business focus and deal mix. Research the bank’s sector specialties, top clients, growth strategies and recent transactions. Explain why their strengths align with your interests and background. Targeting your answer shows motivation beyond just getting any investment banking job.
Preparing a compelling ‘why investment banking’ answer requires demonstrating genuine passion, understanding the day-to-day life, explaining fit, showing relevant background experiences and customizing to each bank. This question tests for intrinsic motivation beyond prestige or compensation. Thorough preparation of thoughtful stories and examples will help your answer stand out.