Which non-technical questions should you prepare before an M&A interview?

Before an interview, it’s essential to prepare technically. But non-technical questions should not be overlooked—they can make all the difference. These questions allow recruiters to assess your motivation, understanding of the role, personality, and ability to fit into a demanding team. Here’s a complete guide to non-technical questions to prepare for, along with advice on how to answer them effectively.

Motivational questions

Why do you want to work in M&A?

This question tests your understanding of the field. Mention your interest in strategic analysis, negotiation, teamwork, and exposure to company executives. Support your answer with an internship, a school project, or a case study that you found exciting.

Why are you applying to our bank/firm?

Rely on concrete facts: reputation in certain sectors (TMT, healthcare, small caps…), involvement in recent deals, working methodology, team culture. Mention if you met analysts or associates who inspired you to apply.

Why this office/location?

Show that you understand the specific activity of the target office and that you have a genuine interest in working in that city: sector focus, team size, spoken language, or personal network.

Questions about your background

Tell me about yourself.

This is often the opening question. In two minutes, walk through your background with a focus on M&A: education, work experience, key skills, and motivation. Be clear, concise, and fluent.

What experience has had the biggest impact on you?

Choose a relevant experience: finance internship, group project, international experience. Emphasize the results, challenges, and what you learned.

Why did you choose this dual degree / these internships?

Show the coherence of your choices: your interest in numbers, strategy, project management, and your desire to learn in demanding environments.

Behavioral questions

Tell me about a conflict you had to manage.

Recruiters want to assess your emotional intelligence. Describe the situation, its cause, how you handled it, and what you learned.

Give an example of a time when you worked under pressure.

M&A is intense. Show that you can prioritize, stay focused, stay organized, and ask for help when needed.

How do you respond to failure?

Demonstrate your ability to take a step back, learn from mistakes, and bounce back stronger.

Industry questions

What are the current M&A market trends?

Show that you follow financial news: rising interest rates, regulation, active sectors, innovation, geopolitical context. Mention a recent article or deal.

Which deal has recently caught your attention?

Choose a deal advised by the bank or a notable transaction in a sector you enjoy. Briefly present the parties, the deal rationale, the amount, and your own analysis.

What is your favorite sector and why?

Choose a sector you know well or are passionate about (healthcare, tech, luxury…). Justify your choice with an internship, a project, or a relevant article.

Questions about firm or bank culture

What are the qualities of a good M&A analyst?

Attention to detail, analytical thinking, teamwork, ability to learn quickly, proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint, stress management, and strong communication skills (written and oral).

Do you prefer working in a team or alone?

Highlight your appreciation for teamwork, while showing that you can also work independently.

How do you handle stress?

Explain that you plan ahead, organize your tasks, do sports, talk to colleagues, etc.

Preparing for non-technical questions is just as important as mastering the technical aspects. Your motivation, consistency, curiosity, and interpersonal skills will set you apart. M&A interviews are demanding, but solid preparation will make all the difference.