Introductory interview with HR

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you can expect from your first interview with the head of HR for a REPE firm internship:

1. General Questions:

   • Strengths and Weaknesses: Be prepared to discuss your strengths and weaknesses. Reflect on your past experiences and how they have shaped your skills and areas for improvement.
   • Behavioral Questions: Expect questions about your past experiences, such as times you succeeded or failed, worked in a group, or dealt with a difficult coworker or customer.

2. Fit Questions:

   • Why This Position/Company: Be ready to explain why you are interested in this specific position and company. Highlight what makes you a good fit for the role and the firm.
   • Unique Experience or Expertise: Think about what unique skills or experiences you bring to the table that would benefit the team.

3. HR-Specific Topics:

   • Company Culture: HR might assess how well you would fit into the company's culture. Be prepared to discuss your values and how they align with the firm's.
   • Career Goals: Be ready to talk about your long-term career goals and how this internship fits into your career plan.

4. Technical Knowledge:

   • While the first interview with HR might not delve deeply into technical questions, it's good to be prepared for basic real estate finance concepts, such as cap rates, valuation methods, and market trends, as these might come up in later stages.

5. Soft Skills:

   • Communication Skills: Demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively, both in your responses and by asking insightful questions.
   • Adaptability: Be ready to discuss times when you had to adapt quickly to new roles or situations.

6. Process Overview:

   • Since the process includes multiple stages, HR might provide more details about what to expect in the subsequent rounds, including the case study and final interview with the VP.

Good luck with your interview!

Sources: J.P. Morgan HireVue Interview Questions: What to Expect, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/real-estate/my-8-month-real-estate-finance-internship-journey-some-general-thoughts-on-nyus?customgpt=1, My 8-month real estate finance internship journey + some general thoughts on NYU's MSRE, Guide to Hirevues, UG Recruiting Part II: The first round interview