Wanting to ace your Barclays investment banking interviews? With Barclays being a top global bank with intense recruitment standards, it is crucial to be well-prepared for their behavioral and technical questions. This article will provide insights into Barclays’ interview approach and share example questions they frequently ask. From leadership, teamwork, to stock valuation – we cover all bases needed to help you land that Barclays offer. With smart preparation using the right resources, you can gain the confidence to really showcase your potential during the interviews.
Common behavioral questions asked in Barclays investment banking interviews
Here are some of the most frequent behavioral questions asked in Barclays investment banking interviews:
– Why investment banking? Why Barclays?
This question tests your understanding of the industry and shows your interest level in the bank. Highlight your long-term passion for the fast-paced but intellectually-stimulating work in investment banking. Elaborate on the specific aspects of Barclays’ culture and offerings that appeal to you. Reference initiatives or deals they have done that excite you.
– Walk me through your resume. What are your key strengths and weaknesses?
Use this as a chance to connect the dots between your experiences and the role you are applying for. Pick strengths like strong analytical skills, attention to detail, resilience that would be valuable. For weaknesses, share ones you have proactively worked on improving.
– Tell me about a time you showed leadership.
Recount a clear example demonstrating you stepping up to lead, rallying others, and driving an outcome. Share any obstacles you faced and how you overcame them.
– When have you worked effectively in a team?
Teams are core to investment banking. Share an example highlighting your collaboration skills – listening, communicating, resolving tensions. Quantify the outcome you achieved together.
– Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Demonstrate your interest in a long-term career at Barclays. Share your vision to gain broad experience across different groups and progress to more senior roles.
There are plenty more behavioral questions they may ask, but preparation along these lines will put you in a strong position to perform well.
Understanding the key technical questions
Solid technical knowledge is vital for succeeding in Barclays’ investment banking interviews. Here are some examples of the technical questions they may test you on:
– Walk me through how you would value a company.
Be ready to provide a clear DCF analysis explanation – from forecasting key financials to WACC, terminal value, and sensitivity analysis. Show your grasp of valuation fundamentals.
– What are the implications of rising interest rates for bonds?
Demonstrate you understand the inverse relationship between bond prices and interest rates. Explain how factors like coupon, time to maturity also affect the bond price movement.
– How would you value these [stocks, currencies, commodities]?
Have a structured approach to valuation ready – be it relative valuation for stocks or fundamental models for currencies or commodities. Explain your assumptions and methodology clearly.
– How do M&A deals work? What are the key considerations?
Outline the typical M&A deal process from strategy, due diligence to financing, exit considerations. Show you grasp points around synergies, valuations, regulations.
– What recent deals has Barclays done? Why were they significant?
Research Barclays’ recent M&A or IPO deals. Analyze the strategic rationale, positioning vs. competitors, revenue implications. This displays your commercial awareness.
With technical questions carrying heavy weightage, dedicated practice across accounting, valuation, markets, deals is vital for investment banking interview success.
Preparing for Barclays’ behavioral and technical investment banking interview questions requires research and practice. Focus on developing clear, structured thinking and conveying your experiences compellingly. With diligent interview preparation, you can put your best foot forward.