Why do you want to work in corporate finance?
Overview
The main reason interviewers ask this question is because they want to know that you understand what the function of your role is. For reference: Corporate finance professionals work internally at companies to maintain and improve the financial health of the company.
Answer framework
A hiring manager wants to know why and how you got interested in finance—more specifically corporate finance. Some answers may include telling them about a corporate finance class in college that inspired you; that you’re good at finance but don’t want the lifestyle associated with investment banking or wealth management; or that you really want to work at the center of an organization instead of deal flow.
State your goals.
To show your dedication to the sector, highlight not only what interests you today, but also why you want to be involved in the future. As is common for people in this field, share how you plan to sit for your CFA exam or would eventually like to get your MBA. By doing this you are showing that you know the typical career path for people in this profession and that you want to take that path.
Describe your strengths.
Out of all the sectors within finance, corporate finance is the most strategic. Professionals in this space are focused on short-term and long-term business goals within their companies. With that, share how your strengths complement the sector. Talk with the interviewer about your love of data, your accounting skills, and your ability to strategically think and make critical decisions.
Sample answers
I want to continue to work in corporate finance because I like the idea of focusing on one company, really diving into their financial strategy and enacting change. I prefer it to working on multiple deals or a slew of clients like in investment banking or wealth management. Plus, I have found that the career trajectory is more appealing. It allows for more optionality later in my career and encourages and reveres continued education. In fact, I'm actually studying for my CFA Level 1 exam now. Also, I've been told by my senior management in past corporate finance positions that I have an innate ability to look at the company's goals while taking into consideration the financial health of the organization—and help to steer any organizational changes that need to happen. Why this answer worked well: She explained why she preferred corporate finance over the other finance professions. She focused on the future and specifically called out a certification that she was hoping to receive. She described how her strengths suited the role.
Tips
- Many candidates don’t really know what a corporate finance job entails. Get clear on what a corporate finance professional does.
- Differentiate yourself. Tell a unique story.
- Be clear on your why and your future.