If you're a graduate looking to get into finance and need to get a feel for the kind of questions employers might ask at interview, then make sure you research these graduate finance interview questions below. These questions and answers are taken from real graduate interviews, and compiled to give you an idea of what to expect and how to prepare your answers.
Example Finance Interview Questions:
What is your greatest achievement? or What obstacles or hurdles have you overcome?
This does not have to be a once-in-a-lifetime standout achievement such as climbing Mount Everest or swimming the channel - but, they would still be good examples. You need to focus on something that took time, effort and demonstrates the ability to overcome adversity or challenges. If possible, try to give an achievement that is as unique to yourself as possible, as this will make you stand out more. In the name of standing out from the crowd, avoid using your degree as an answer.
What can you bring to this role that you’re certain other applicants can't?
Think about your core strengths, personal motivation and achievements here. Any graduate can show knowledge of financial principles and techniques, so you need to focus on things that make you stand out.
Tell me one change introduced by the government which has had an impact on financial services
There are so many things that you could focus on here: new regulation, the restructure of the FSA to the FCA and the PRA, or Solvency 2, Basel 3 and Quantitative easing. Your answer needs to show depth, so whichever you choose, make sure you have researched it thoroughly so you can talk through it clearly and confidently.
Tell me about a recent piece of news that’s interested you
This is here for you to show your market and commercial awareness, so choose something that will have an impact on the wider economy, or the Financial Services industry.
What experience do you have in Finance/Accounting field?
This could be academic experience, commercial experience or from an extra-curricular activity, such as being a Treasurer for a society or sports team. All are relevant, and you should tailor your answer to be as specific to the role in question as possible.