Questions to Ask the Interviewer (IB)

Free sample from the Deskcraft question bank

Built from conversations with hundreds of investment bankers about what they ask in interviews. Our sources

The last question of the interview is yours, and it is marked like the rest. Asking about hours costs you; asking about a deal the group ran scores, because it shows you did the work. These are the ones that land and the ones that do not, from the Deskcraft bank, with the reason behind each.

1. Do you have any questions for me?

Model answer

Always yes. Ask thoughtful, specific questions about their experience, the group's culture and deal flow, or what makes someone succeed there - not something you could have Googled or that leads with hours and pay. Good questions show genuine interest and turn the interview into a conversation.

2. What appeals to you about a markets role (ECM/DCM) versus advisory?

Model answer

Show you understand the difference: markets is fast, calendar-driven and tied to live pricing and investor demand, while advisory is project-driven and analytical. Then pick one with a real reason.

3. What are good questions to ask an interviewer?

Model answer

Ask about their own path and why they chose the group, the deals the team is working on, how juniors are developed and what distinguishes the top analysts, or how the culture really works day to day. Tailor them to the person in front of you and follow up on what they say.

4. What do you know about our recent deals?

Model answer

Cite one or two real, recent transactions the firm advised on, the role it played, and why they interest you. It proves genuine research and interest in the platform.