How to answer "Why this location" question?

Hey fellow monkeys,

I have a second round phone interview regarding IB summer analyst internship with MD of a boutique firm located in Charlotte NC.

I go to school in Midwest and I'm pretty sure that some of the questions at the interview will be "Why this firm? Why this location?" While I did quite a lot of research on the company and I can answer the first question, I don't have a clear answer to the question regarding location. How can approach this question?

SB to everyone who gives me some good ideas!

Thanks

 
Best Response

Grew up in Charlotte - there's a surprising amount of M&A activity going through there given that it's a smaller metro area (less so post-2008, but there are still regional offices of some major firms there for a reason...) I'd say try to focus on an industry the boutique covers and/or how you like the culture of the area itself. As long as you sound like you've done your homework you'll be fine.

When choosing where to live take into account that the public transit system leaves something to be desired and rush hour traffic is generally not bad if you're early. Johnson and Wales is a college in the downtown that should have some limited summer housing. If you're not working 100 hour weeks, don't feel the need to be right in the downtown if that's not your thing. Although it can be a bit pricey, Myers Park is a nice area if you can snag a good deal, and an especially useful section of town for getting around using back roads. There is a lot of small/medium sized office space that general area, so I'm guessing the boutique is located nearby if it's not downtown. Avoid Highways 521, 16, and 51 at all costs during rush hour if you drive to work. Good luck!

 

I have been struggling with the same thing. I am moving from one financial center to another (opposite coasts). Do you think "moving with my boyfriend who's doing a PHD in this area" will be viewed as a legitimate reason? That is truly the reason I'm moving but I'm worried it will be looked down upon and may be too much personal information.

 

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