Skip to content
Home » 3 Steps to Be Prepared for The Interview

3 Steps to Be Prepared for The Interview

    Great progress! You have your first interview scheduled in just one week. Here are 3 essential steps to help you prepare.

    1. Make Connections

    Undoubtedly, there will be technical and behavioral questions you need to prepare for. While I can’t predict the exact questions, as they vary depending on the role, I can certainly guide you on how to get an idea. Utilize your existing network – if you have any contacts at the firm you’re applying to or in a similar role at another company, reach out to them. Ask about the interview process, what questions to expect, and how to best prepare.

    If you don’t have any connections at the target firm or in a similar role, it’s time to make some! Consider reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn who work there or in comparable positions. Send them a personalized message expressing your interest in learning from their experience and seeking advice for your upcoming interview. A coffee chat can be a great way to establish a connection and gather valuable insights.

    If you haven’t already, read the article Meet Effectively to be prepared for your coffee chat.

    2. Research and Study

    Now that you’ve received guidance on the interview questions, it’s time to dive into preparation. Focus on both technical and behavioral aspects. For technical readiness, review relevant financial courses, formulas, and case studies. On the behavioral side, prepare to respond to questions with real-life examples or scenarios.

    Additionally, it’s crucial to research the company you’ll be interviewing with. Familiarize yourself with their core values, principles, and mission. This knowledge will demonstrate your genuine interest and alignment with the company’s culture and objectives.

    Example of behavioral questions:

    • Can you tell me about a time when you had to analyze a complex financial problem? How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?
    • Describe a situation where you had to work under pressure to meet a tight deadline. How did you prioritize tasks and ensure timely completion?
    • Give an example of when you had to communicate complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders. How did you ensure clarity and understanding?
    • Tell me about a time when you had to work as part of a team to complete a project. What was your role, and how did you contribute to the team’s success?
    • Describe a situation where you had to adapt to unexpected changes. How did you adjust your approach, and what was the outcome?
    • Can you share an experience where you identified a financial risk or opportunity? How did you assess it, and what actions did you take?
    • Give an example of when you had to resolve a conflict or disagreement within a team. How did you approach the situation, and what was the result?
    • Can you share an experience where you successfully managed multiple projects simultaneously? How did you prioritize tasks and ensure quality deliverables for each project?

    3. Prepare Your Closing

    It’s crucial to ask questions during your interview, especially when given the opportunity at the end. Prepare insightful questions to demonstrate your interest and eagerness to learn more about the company and the role. This not only showcases your curiosity but also helps you gather valuable insights to make an informed decision about your potential future with the company.

    Example of questions you can ask:

    • Can you tell me more about the day-to-day responsibilities of this role?
    • How would you describe the company culture and values?
    • What opportunities are there for professional development and growth within the company?
    • Can you provide more information about the team I would be working with?
    • What are the key priorities for this role in the first six months?
    • What opportunities are available for training and mentoring for new employees at the company?
    • How does this role contribute to the overall goals and objectives of the company?
    • Can you share insights into the company’s approach to [specific industry or market trend]?
    • What do you enjoy most about working at this company?
    • How does the company support work-life balance for its employees?
    • Can you tell me about the next steps in the interview process and the expected timeline for a decision?

    Send us your questions