Summer Interview Preparation for 2nd round ?
Hi, I've got a second round interview for a summer internship at a top 5 BB but it's in Japan and I'm not sure how to prepare for it ? Has anyone here ever interned in japan or went through the processes to do so ? Some classmates told me that there's relatively few technical stuff required for summers and that it's mostly fit but I'm not sure of that. I've got a decent technical financial background (1st year MFE student) on all asset classes but the person interviewing me works in IRD and I haven't seen much about it, so I was wondering if it was worth it to dive into this field or if the questions were more likely to cover different asset classes in a shallow manner ? Also, I feel like banks in Japan don't follow the same processes as everywhere else and they can kind of do what they want process-wise, is this correct ?
Thanks !
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s how you can approach your second-round summer internship interview preparation for a top BB in Japan:
Fit vs. Technical Balance: For summer internships, the focus is often more on fit questions rather than deep technicals. However, since your interviewer works in IRD (Interest Rate Derivatives), it’s worth brushing up on the basics of IRD, as they might test your understanding of the field. Be prepared to explain concepts like swaps, options, and how interest rate movements impact these instruments.
Tailored Technical Prep: While your classmates are correct that technicals might not be as intense for summer roles, having a solid grasp of IRD basics will show initiative and interest in the interviewer’s area of expertise. Since you already have a strong technical background, focus on how your knowledge applies to IRD and other asset classes in a broad sense.
Cultural and Process Differences in Japan: It’s true that banks in Japan may have unique processes. Networking and understanding the local work culture can be advantageous. Be prepared for a mix of structured and potentially ad-hoc interview styles. Demonstrating adaptability and cultural awareness will be key.
Behavioral Questions: Practice common fit questions like:
Research the Market: Be ready to discuss the Japanese financial market and any recent trends in IRD or broader asset classes. This will show that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the region.
Mock Interviews: If possible, practice with someone familiar with the Japanese banking environment or use resources like WSO’s mock interview services to refine your answers.
For more insights, you can explore this thread: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/lateraling-gui…</a">Lateraling Guide for Investment Banking. It provides tips on interview preparation and navigating different bank processes.
Good luck with your interview!
Sources: J.P. Morgan - Video Interview Invitation Corporate & Investment Banking Summer Analyst, J.P. Morgan - Video Interview Invitation Corporate & Investment Banking Summer Analyst, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/real-estate/my-8-month-real-estate-finance-internship-journey-some-general-thoughts-on-nyus?customgpt=1, MSF to IB, My 8-month real estate finance internship journey + some general thoughts on NYU's MSRE
Hope it's not too late, and if so I hope you did well.
Overall there is much more behavioral questions than in the US, but some interviewers will try to see how sharp you are by asking you weird questions.
I personally had to answer a market sizing question as well as questions on how would you invest right now, what is your outlook, where do you think the Nikkei will finish the year, etc...
Overall it is never a bad idea to prep for technicals as well just in case, as you might get some questions on the matter if your interviewer started their career outside of Japan.
Good luck!
Hi! The interview was last Tuesday, but thank you for your answer! The interview went well and it was much more behavioral as you mentioned, the only technical things they have asked about were the ones about the classes mentioned in my CV. I’ve also found the interviewers to be much more friendly than in Europe. Sadly, the firm has decided not to conduct a summer internship this year, but they have encouraged me to apply to their grad program starting in September, which I won’t be able to do since I’m not done with my masters haha. It’s pretty late for me to find a summer internship for this year so better luck next time I guess!
I'm glad it went well, even if the company went in that direction in the end.
Feel free to PM me, as I can definitely help you look for market side jobs in Tokyo (one firm I used to be at recruits ad hoc so there should be opportunities there).
Anyways good luck on recruiting!
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