Why Banking? - How Dorky is This Answer?
When asked why banking, I have actually an authentic answer, but unsure if it can be seen as if I am a dork.
I structure my response as follows: "Majoring in finance, I enjoyed employing the dynamic of quantitative skills, "story-telling techniques", and theoretical applications which put investment banking on my radar of interest. However, it was not until my corporate internship at X where I met person Y who was an ex-director at BB bank that I realized I really wanted to get into banking. The first meeting I had with this person, I did not know who they were, but the way they carried themselves, communicated, and analyzed information was worlds above anyone else in the room. I had to know who they were, and after quick google searches, I found they were an ex-banker. Scheduling a coffee-chat with them solidified my interest in the industry. "
I really do not want to seem like a sleazeball that generalized the industry of one person. Although this is authentically my reason - I was blown away by this one ex-banker at my company. Searching their background made it clear - even if banking isn't for me long term, it creates "the elephant in the room" persona in other industries. Thoughts?
Sorry but it comes across like you are more enamoured with the person than your motivation towards IB
Thank you. That is a response I was looking for. I have, of course, other experiences that solidified my interest, but it was the catalyst (maybe I should rephrase the answer and build off the anecdotally how I pursued meeting new people, and etc.)
If I were your interviewer I would also question if you had actually done any story-telling techniques in classes
This sounds too wordy. I'd recommend phrasing it the way you'd be talking to someone over lunch. Using too formal language can be a turn off for bankers, especially since it's not really a technical or academic field.
I'd suggest not sounding like you immediately started worshipping the banker, putting him or her on a pedal stool. Maybe just say you were impressed, which made you want to develop your leadership skills, presentation skills, etc.
Thank you. Really appreciate the feedback!
I've seen many people/guides regurgitate that banking attracts the "smartest", "most talented", etc... as part of their reasoning. Thought I had a more unique hands-on experience with this. As figured, this is a little strange to worship individuals or the industry.
Would recommend you take a step back and re-evaluate your "Why Banking?" Answer. Read out loud if you have to.
M&I has a really good structure as to telling your story and how that can work towards answering the "Why Banking?" and "Why Boilerplate Investment Bank?".
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