When interviewing for investment banking positions, especially at the managing director level, candidates often focus too much on answering questions and not enough on asking good questions. However, the questions you ask in an investment banking interview can make as much of an impression as your actual answers. Here are some smart questions to ask managing directors during investment banking interviews to demonstrate your strategic thinking and leave a positive lasting impact.
Ask about firm culture and work environment
Don’t just ask general questions about the firm’s culture. Get specific by asking about collaboration between groups, how analysts and associates are mentored, work hours in deals vs non-deal times, and how the bank supports employee engagement and well-being. This shows you’ve done research on the firm and care about fit.
Inquire about requirements for advancement
Managing directors want to hire associates who can eventually move up and fill their shoes. Ask what skills, competencies and track record are required to advance from associate to VP and eventually MD. Also ask how succession planning is handled. This demonstrates ambition and strategic thinking.
Learn about current industry trends and client needs
Get the MD’s outlook on trends shaping the banking sector, emerging client needs and how the bank is positioning itself competitively. Look for insights into new capabilities being built to serve evolving client requirements. This displays your industry knowledge and interest in the bank’s strategy.
Ask for examples of successful deals or projects
Ask the MD to share examples of advisory work or deals they are particularly proud of participating in. Then dig deeper by asking what made the transactions successful, what was learned and how those learnings have been applied since. This shows genuine curiosity about the work.
Inquire about leadership style and values
Get a sense of the MD’s approach to leadership, motivation, talent development, work-life balance and driving innovation. Also ask about activities outside work. The more context you gain about their leadership values and priorities, the better you can assess culture fit.
Preparing thoughtful questions for managing directors during investment banking interviews demonstrates strategic thinking, interest in the firm, and understanding of the industry. Focus on learning about culture, advancement, client needs, deal successes and leadership approaches. How you inquire is just as important as how you answer in interviews.