HireVue Tips - how to not bomb?

To ace your HireVue for a sophomore summer PE/PC position at Morgan Stanley, here’s what you need to know based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Types of Questions to Prepare For:

• Behavioral Questions: These are common and focus on your past actions and experiences. Examples include:
  • Why this position?
  • Why are you a good fit for this position?
  • Why this company?
  • Describe a time you dealt with a difficult coworker or customer and how you handled it.
  • Talk about your experience in adapting to a new role quickly to achieve an objective.
  • What leadership experience or extracurricular activity on your resume is most important?
• Situational Questions: These assess how you would handle hypothetical scenarios.
• Current Events or Industry Knowledge: Be prepared to discuss a current event that interests you and explain why.

2. Tips to Avoid Sounding Robotic:

• Practice on Camera: Record yourself answering questions to get comfortable with speaking naturally. This will help you avoid sounding rehearsed.
• Use the STAR Method: Structure your answers with Situation, Task, Action, and Result to keep them clear and concise.
• Be Conversational: Imagine you’re speaking to a real person, not a camera. Smile, use natural hand gestures, and maintain good posture.
• Pace Yourself: Speak clearly and at a moderate pace. Avoid rushing through your answers.

3. Technical Setup and Environment:

• Lighting and Acoustics: Find a well-lit, quiet spot with good acoustics to avoid distractions or echoes.
• Test Your Equipment: Ensure your camera, microphone, and internet connection are working perfectly.
• Dress Professionally: Treat it like an in-person interview.

4. Key Preparation Steps:

• Prepare 5-7 STAR Stories: These should cover common behavioral questions and highlight your strengths, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
• Know Your Strengths and Weaknesses: Be ready to discuss three strengths and three weaknesses.
• Research the Firm: Understand Morgan Stanley’s culture, values, and recent deals to tailor your answers.

5. Practice Makes Perfect:

• Use practice questions like:
  • Why are you a great fit for this position?
  • What unique experience or expertise could you bring to our team?
  • Tell me about a time you collaborated with a difficult colleague.
• Rehearse until you feel confident but not over-rehearsed.

By following these tips and preparing thoroughly, you’ll increase your chances of making a strong impression and advancing to the next stage. Good luck!

Sources: J.P. Morgan HireVue Interview Questions: What to Expect, J.P. Morgan HireVue Interview Questions: What to Expect, J.P. Morgan - Video Interview Invitation Corporate & Investment Banking Summer Analyst, Guide to Hirevues, Guide to Hirevues