What are good questions to ask an investment banking interviewer?

Draw from three buckets: their path and what keeps them at the firm, their read on deals and the market, and the advice they would give their younger self. Personal, open-ended questions get real answers and turn the last minutes into a conversation the interviewer remembers.

How many questions should I ask at the end of an interview?

Never zero, declining the invitation reads as indifference. One thoughtful question is the floor; having two or three prepared is safer, since earlier small talk can burn your first one. Watch the clock and the interviewer's energy rather than working through a list.

What questions should I avoid asking the interviewer?

Generic ones a brochure could answer, yes/no questions that kill the exchange, and anything you could have Googled. Save compensation and hours for later stages. The test is whether your question could only come from someone genuinely curious about this firm and this person.

Should I ask analysts and managing directors different questions?

Yes, and matching the question to the seat quietly demonstrates judgment. With analysts and associates, ask about the day-to-day: staffing, learning curve, what surprised them. With senior bankers, go to their view of the market, the franchise, and the career arc that kept them in it.

What if the interviewer already answered everything I prepared?

Say exactly that, then build on something they said: "You mentioned the team is doing more take-privates, has that changed the analyst experience?" Turning their own words into a follow-up shows you listened the entire interview, which is a better final impression than any prepared question.

Q10Closing

Do you have any questions for us about the role, company, or anything else you'd like to know?

Understanding the Question
Preparing Thoughtful Questions
Mistakes to Avoid
Conclusion

Understanding the Question

Opportunity for Engagement and Insight: When asked if you have any questions about the role, company, or any other topic, it's a chance to engage with the interviewer and gain deeper insights, you should always ask at least one question. This question is crucial as it not only demonstrates your interest but also your understanding of the industry and the specific role.

Preparing Thoughtful Questions

Categorizing Questions

Divide your questions into three main buckets: background questions, experience & insight questions, and career advice questions. This approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of the firm and the role while showcasing your thoughtfulness.

Background Questions

Ask about the interviewer's career path, their experiences in investment banking, and the aspects of their job they find most rewarding. This shows your interest in the company's culture and the personal experiences of its employees.

Experience & Insight Questions

Inquire about specific deals, industry predictions, or changes in deal flow, especially in the context of recent events like COVID-19. These questions demonstrate your industry awareness and interest in the firm's activities.

Career Advice Questions

Pose questions about lessons learned and advice they would give to their younger selves. These inquiries can provide valuable insights and show your eagerness to learn and grow professionally.

Mistakes to Avoid

Steer Clear of Generic Questions: Avoid asking non-personal or generic questions like 'What qualities do you look for in a candidate?'. Such questions might elicit bland responses and miss the opportunity for a meaningful conversation.
Avoid Yes/No Questions: Refrain from asking questions that can be answered with a simple yes or no. Opt for open-ended questions that encourage detailed responses and discussions.
Not Just About the Role: Don't limit your questions to the specifics of the position or role. Broaden your scope to include the firm's culture, industry trends, and personal experiences of the interviewer.

Conclusion

Asking insightful questions at the end of an interview is as important as answering the questions posed to you. It shows your genuine interest in the role and the company, and it helps you gather valuable information that might influence your decision if an offer is extended. Thoughtfully prepared questions can leave a lasting positive impression, demonstrating your industry knowledge, curiosity, and engagement. Remember, this is not just about the role but about the broader context of working at the firm and your potential place within it.