Merrill Lynch provides fundamental insights and analysis for clients in the equity, fixed income, currency, and commodities markets. Which areas of research are most important to you?

"I have read many articles by Merrill Lynch on all of these topics. I would say they are equally important; however, I find research on commodities markets to be the most intriguing. I like to learn about the hard commodities we offer in our region and how to leverage them to benefit my clients."

The interviewer would like to know which areas of research you find to be the most important and applicable to your role in wealth management. The truth is, all of these topics are important, yet you may lean towards understanding one a bit better over others. Discuss what you believe to be an essential area of research without overlooking the others at the same time.

"Currency is fundamental to research and understand, especially as my portfolio of clients is global. With that said, I also believe its essential that I am well rounded by spending my time reading articles and gaining insight on other topics such as equity, fixed income, commodities, and more."

How does Merrill Lynch keep its clients informed on critical finance-related topics?

"Your company is well-researched on hot topics in global finance news, ensuring that you remain focused on the short and long term needs of your clients. You remain closely aligned with your clients and shareholders through regular polls, e-newsletters, and market reports. Efforts to reinforce your firms' culture ensure that your clients are always receiving the latest information. I believe that Merrill Lynch starts by investing in employee knowledge so that your team members are more likely to offer a broader depth of knowledge to each client."

It is critical to Merrill Lynch that they continually meet the unique needs of their diverse client base. The interviewer wants to see that you have researched the efforts they go to, ensuring that their clients feel informed on important finance-related topics. Be prepared to discuss some of the ways that Merrill Lynch serves their clients.

"Hiring people who are interested in solving complex problems is a great start, and one of the ways that Merrill Lynch ensures its clients are always well informed. I understand that you publish many important market reports, lead critical research on global finance topics, and are continually in contact with your clients offering value-adds such as whitepapers, ebooks, newsletter updates, and more."

What can you do for Merrill Lynch that other candidates cannot?

"In addition to meeting your requirements for education, experience, and career accomplishments, I will also compliment Merrill Lynch efforts when it comes to diversity and inclusion. I understand that Merrill Lynch believes gender equality is an economic imperative. I will complement Merrill Lynch by supporting women's economic empowerment and leadership opportunities. These efforts will help drive growth for your clients and shareholders."

This question is another way of asking, 'Why should we hire you?' The best way to answer this inquiry is to comb through the Merrill Lynch job description and narrow down the most persuasive skills matches. You will also want to think about one of your most significant work accomplishments, which other candidates may not have. For instance, this could include awards and accolades, your GPA, additional certifications, or designations. Be prepared to deliver a remarkable credibility statement.

"On your Merrill Lynch careers page you speak about how your biggest assets are your people, capital, and your reputation. In addition to the experience I bring in wealth management, as well as the 3.94 GPA I bring from my post-secondary degree, I also promise to help you uphold these business principles every day. I am dedicated to fully complying with the laws, regulations, and the overall spirit of your organization."

Talk to me about one piece of financial news you are currently following.

"One topic I have been immersed in, primarily because so many of my clients have an interest, is China's GDP growth. China's growth has seen a 6.2% slump in Q2 of this year and the lowest percent in about 27 years. This topic is significant to me since China is the world's second-largest economy. We are starting to see the impact of the trade war between China and the US."

This question allows the interviewer to get to know you a bit better; helping them to understand the issues that draw you in. Many topics in financial news could pique your interest. Discuss one piece of economic news that has caught your attention as of late. You can give your opinion on the topic; however, it's essential that you avoid going on a tangent regarding politics and other hot button topics.

"I have been reading more in the news about water scarcity as a global phenomenon and how this could soon make water a good investment. Shortages in upcoming years could make water a precious commodity, making it a potential opportunity for investors. From the research I have conducted, I see that a small amount of traditional mutual funds and exchange-traded funds already invest in water. These investments are mainly around its delivery, testing, and cleaning. I believe there could be phenomenal growth as governments strive to battle expected water shortages."

Where do you see the economy going this year?

"I have read many opinion pieces on The New York Times, The Economist, Investopedia, and more. One common theme that I have found is how the dollar will continue to stabilize throughout the year. The flow of foreign capital into United States assets may slow due to softer monetary policy and a lack of need for new capital for business expansion. This opinion is that of Byron R. Wien, Vice Chairman in the Private Wealth Solutions group at Blackstone, and I happen to agree wholeheartedly."

Aside from your opinion, the interviewer also wants to see that you spend time getting to know the ever-changing market conditions. Talk about where you think the markets may be going in the next 12 months. Be prepared to discuss where you get your information, or how you have gone about forming your prediction. Most important here is that you sound well-read and informed, up to date, and engaged. You can talk about stocks and bonds, commodities, and even the global market.

"Geopolitical tensions will continue to rise as we see tougher laws on trade. I have read plenty of market predictions from sources such as he Wall Street Journal, Fortune Magazine, and Bloomberg Markets. I believe China's influence will become stronger as the United States continues to isolate itself further."

What are the three most important traits for a high-end wealth management professional to possess?

"I have read a lot on Merrill Lynch and what it takes to succeed, not only in wealth management but also within your organization. I believe the most critical traits here are flexibility, open-mindedness, and a thirst for education. You invest in the careers of your employees and go to great measures to ensure their interests remain focused on those of your clients and shareholders. I appreciate your goal to maximize individual potential. I also value continued education and learning opportunities."

The traits that you mention should be traits that you possess! Think back to the job posting by Merrill Lynch and if they list any specific soft skills, ideal characteristics, or preferred personality traits. Perhaps on their careers page, or 'about us' section of their website, they make mention of their core philosophies or business values. Be sure to align your response as closely as possible with Merrill Lynch views.

"In my opinion, the three most important traits for a high-end wealth management professional include adaptability, an eagerness to learn, and maximum integrity. These are all traits mentioned in the Merrill Lynch website and job posting, showing me that there is strong alignment with our morals and values."

If you advised a client to hedge against risk in their portfolio, but they wanted to take an alternate action that could hurt their long-term goals, what would you do?

"A difference in opinion may cost me a client; however, I would rather lose a client than be a 'yes person' as the financial ship sinks. If a client wants to take a risk that I know will end up hurting them, I will flat out tell them that it's a bad idea. I will present a case using pros and cons, and if needed, will bring in a specialist on the issue to help the client see the bigger picture."

The interviewer wants to see that you take things such as a difference of opinion as an opportunity to dive back into your clients' needs. If you disagree on approach, this could be a sign that you need to revisit long-term goals with your client. Discuss how you carefully go over the pros and cons of these competing approaches. Show Merrill Lynch that you are not afraid to be bold when necessary. This boldness may include telling your client that their approach is not a good idea. Maybe you bring in a second opinion, which will show the interviewer that you are not ego-driven; doing what is best for your client.

"If a client wanted to take a bad risk against their portfolio, I would present as much compelling data as possible, to convince them otherwise. If the situation were extreme, I am aware that I could lose the client. It's more important to me; however, that I help my client refrain from action that could hinder them, no matter how much we disagree."

What is your professional mission statement?

"My professional mantra is to better the lives of every client I come across. My clients need to know that I am 100% concerned with their financial health and completely on board with their long-term vision. It's care over profits."

Merrill Lynch is a highly esteemed wealth management resource, who has to be sure that every professional they hire is the 'cream of the crop.' Also, they need assurance that your professional manta aligns well with their own. In a sensitive industry such as finance and wealth management, your professional motto is an essential factor to ponder. Think of this question as addressing your credibility statement, ensuring you come across as trustworthy and honest, to your clients, peers, and management.

"Service, knowledge, and vision. My professional mantra surrounds these three factors. 1. To service my clients before my own needs. 2. To keep my knowledge current and sharp. 3. To be ever-prepared with a short-term and long-term vision for my clients, firm, and career."

If you helped someone make their first investment, what are the first steps you would take?

"If I were to help someone with their very first investments, I would first remind them that investing can be very simple. I would speak in terms that someone could understand and exercise patience when explaining terms and processes. I would ensure that these persons' finances were in order, so they knew what they could afford to invest every month. Then, I would set some achievable and basic goals."

The interviewer wants to see what kind of advice you would give to a new investor. This question, especially if you are a seasoned wealth manager in high-end wealth management, will take you back to the very basics. Give an answer that shows your knowledge but also your ability to guide and teach people who are not as experienced as you may be.

"To understand terminology is fundamental, so I would first share some resources so that this new investor understood the industry's language. Then, I would perform a financial health assessment and a risk tolerance assessment. I would ask for their top 3 most important financial goals and what they believed was a reasonable timeline for the achievement of each goal. From there, I would make investment recommendations."

Merrill Lynch wants to ensure that you are a strategic fit. Tell me more about your investing strategy.

"I am a big Warren Buffet fan and, learned a great deal from him on the principles behind Value Investing. This investing style focuses on buying undervalued stocks. This approach takes a great deal of research; however, research is one of my strongest suits as a portfolio manager. It often is a waiting game when it comes to the rising prices, so Value Investing also requires a lot of patience, which I refer to as 'buy and hold.' This investment style is not for everyone, but the payoffs can be excellent if the investor is patient."

There are a variety of investment strategies, and when you and your client are on the same page, that is when you can see a lot of success. Some investment styles include: - Value Investing - Income Investing - Growth Investing - Small-Cap Investing - Socially Responsible InvestingThere is a chance that you have utilized all types of investment strategies! With that said, the interviewer would like to know if there is one in particular that you lean to the most often. Your answer should align well with the core strategies and values of Merrill Lynch.

"Peter Lynch is someone in the investment industry that I admire. He introduced me to the art of Growth Investing; a strategy focused on capital appreciation. First, I seek out companies that show above-average growth through revenues and profits. Even if the share price doesn't seem low, or like 'a deal,' I believe that it's worth a look. I understand that Growth Investing is riskier, and not for everyone; however, it can pay off well when we look at companies within emerging markets."

Tell me about your professional designations, and how you aim to further your education in the next three years.

"I have found that so much of my work includes taking a plethora of data and analyzing it to find trends. These trends then help me to make better predictions. In the next three years, I plan to focus my education on courses that include building my quantitative analysis skills. I believe this will complement my MBA, as well as my CFA designation."

As a professional in the wealth management industry, you most likely have a variety of professional designations to compliment your bachelor's degree, masters' degree, or MBA. The most common designation is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Chartered Financial Planner (CFP). Take the time to remind the interviewer of your education and corresponding designations, briefly. Most important to the interviewer is that you show a keen interest in expanding your knowledge for years to come. Your continued education plan could include further developing your expertise in finance, accounting, statistics, or even data analysis.

"I recently earned my CFA designation, which I am eager to stack up with my Masters' Degree in Finance. I realize that, as a wealth professional, my education should never stop. For that reason, I have enrolled in two courses this year; Advanced Investment Strategies, and Growth Investing. I plan to take further courses over time, that include data analysis and statistics."

Name for me one significant deal or accomplishment by Merrill Lynch in the last 12 months.

"I read the other day that Merrill Lynch beat expected revenues for Q2 this year, which is amazing news. Your shares closed 1.9% higher, bringing your year-to-date gains to 29%. The fact that Merrill Lynch is blowing away the expectations of analysts worldwide is fascinating to see."

This question speaks directly to how well you have researched Merrill Lynch before attending your interview. Take a look at the company website, their news section, check out Google, and see if they are trending on any topics. You do not need to go into a significant amount of detail on what you find. Give enough to show the interviewer that you are paying attention to their organizations' accomplishments.

"I see that Merrill Lynch has made significant strides in the past 12 months on efforts to close the gender investing gap. I appreciate that Merrill Lynch has identified that women-owned businesses often do not get the investments they deserve. I was thrilled to read about your new initiative to invest millions into private, late-stage, women-founded, women-owned, or women-led companies."

What differentiates Merrill Lynch from other high-end wealth management firms?

"In addition to your sparkling reputation in this industry, I appreciate the immense efforts Merrill Lynch is taking to close the gender gap in the finance industry. Your programs have trained thousands of women entrepreneurs in developing economies around the world. Merrill Lynch knows that empowering women makes sound economic sense. This awareness is one reason why I want to work for you and just one way that you stand far above your competitors."

There are many significant high-end wealth management firms out there, but Merrill Lynch wants to know why they are the stand-out firm for you. Why do you want to work for them versus their competitors? Take the time to carve out a unique answer that goes far beyond the surface. A surface answer would be because you know someone who works there, for instance. A great response would be dropping a specific reason as to why the company is unique.

"Merrill Lynch is huge on philanthropy, and giving is a significant part of my moral makeup. I understand that your firm has donated nearly $1B in the last 20 years to charitable efforts, and in the form of student grants. Your efforts to help underserved children, as well as refugee initiatives, are remarkable and stand out from the rest."

Tell me about a stock you follow. Why should I buy them?

"I am always in tune with the 'best of' and 'must-watch' stock lists. Most recently, Canopy Growth, the worlds' largest cannabis producer, has caught my eye. As cannabis becomes legalized in many areas of the world and is used medically more and more, the company is expanding to Germany, Spain, Denmark, and Australia. What ups the ante is that Canopy Growth is in partnership with an alcoholic beverage company. This partnership gives them a significant advantage when cannabis-based beer and other alcoholic beverages become mainstream."

There is no real right or wrong answer to this question, as it's hypothetical. The interviewer would like to know more about the type of stocks that you follow but more importantly, how you would present them to a client. Think of a stock that you are diligently following and make a compelling argument as to why the interviewer should invest!

"I tend to keep a considerable amount of interest in medical and pharma and so, for that reason, I believe looking into Gilead would be very lucrative. The drugmaker helped turn HIV from a fatal disease into a manageable chronic ailment and developed a cure for Hepatitic C. They have become a $100B company along the way, and there is a lot of buzz surrounding a change in leadership which is sure to produce even bigger results in the years to come."

Merrill Lynch wealth managers work independently. What makes you an entrepreneurial minded professional?

"An entrepreneurial mindset, to me, means to continually seek out new challenges and think about my career vision every day. Also, I am an exceptional problem solver. I think quickly and can get myself out of most situations by looking at the issue from various angles. I willingly accept feedback and criticism, then take that feedback to find new ways of working. These are just some of the entrepreneurial qualities I will bring to Merrill Lynch and my clients."

Merrill Lynch wants assurance that you will be able to run your client portfolio as though it is your own business. You will be responsible for building your client list, maintaining relationships, and adjusting your business to the ever-changing economic environments and trends that we face today. Share with the interviewer what an entrepreneurial mindset means to you, and how you go about exercising that mentality in your day to day work.

"For me, it's important that I continue to manage my portfolio of clients as though it's my own business. To do this, I pay for and attend industry conferences regularly. Rather than running straight to management, I reverse engineer problems and conduct research when an issue arises. Also, I take the opportunity to read as much as I can. I absorb myself wholly in topics related to finance, investments, and wealth management."

Please define CAPM for me.

"CAPM stands for Capital Asset Pricing Model. CAPM has been helpful for me in the past when it comes time to determine if a security is fairly valued. Although there can be issues with CAPM, the method can help investors understand the relationship between expected risk and reward. This understanding can, in turn, help investors to make better decisions when it comes to adding securities to their portfolio."

CAPM (Capital Asset Pricing Model) is a widely used term in finance that describes the relationship between systematic risk and expected return. We can utilize CAPM when pricing risky securities and calculating expected yields. Although CAPM is a widely accepted model, there are some imperfections; however, it's still used a great deal in the finance industry. Briefly show the interviewer that you are familiar with CAPM.

"I understand CAPM to be short for Capital Asset Pricing Model. Although I have not gained a lot of exposure to the model, I do understand that the formula is ERi = Rf + ?i (ERm - Rf). I learned a bit about this and believe it has to do with the expected return of investment, risk-free rate, beta of the investment, expected return of market, and market risk premium."

Give me an example of someone in the finance industry with a lot of integrity.

"I most admire (person's name). They are one of the most trusted sources I can find when it comes to financial and market data. They have been a go-to name and source as a finance industry analyst for enterprises and independent wealth managers, alike. His weekly e-newsletter is a treasure trove of industry analysis and statistics, which I follow religiously."

The news often delivers stories and examples of finance professionals who are not doing the right thing by their clients. The interviewer at Merrill Lynch wants to talk about the opposite! Finance professionals who have helped to shape your career positively. Think about an influencer or thought leader in the industry who you admire. Be prepared to discuss what you admire most about their approach, and why.

"Hands down, the finance professional I trust and learn from the most is (person's name). She has a multi-national track record of success in the business world. She has started companies in four countries and helped manage businesses in over ten countries. Her career describes the type of finance career I strive to have one day."

What is your favorite resource for wealth-management and finance related news?

"I like to know what is being said by the worlds' most prestigious wealth-management firms; including that of Merrill Lynch. For that reason, I read every top firms' blogs, subscribe to newsletters, and follow along on social media. If I had to choose just one favorite resource; however, I would choose The Wall Street Journal because of its reputation and longevity."

You can lean on a multitude of resources in the wealth-management and finance realm. Most importantly, you should show the interviewer that you get your information from the most reputable resources. Talk about one publication that you tune into the most, and be prepared to discuss why it is your go-to resource. If you follow Merrill Lynch sources, you can mention those as well.

"The Economist has been my go-to resource for many years now. I would read this publication even when I was in high school when my friends were playing video games. What I appreciate about The Economist is that it provides insight into international news, but it's all-encompassing to include politics, business, finance, science, and technology. These topics all work together, so I believe it's important to have a well-rounded view."

How does your post-secondary education relate to a career in wealth management?

"I earned my masters' degree in finance from ABC University. My degree exposed me to the financial world and specific topics such as bonds, econometrics, economics, corporate finance, governmental finance, individual investment, statistics, and portfolio management. I am grateful for my education and how well it has supported me in my career."

Nearly every high-end wealth management firm will require you to have a post-secondary degree related to finance. If your degree is not related to finance, be prepared to defend your educational background. Your formal education and industry training might be on your resume; however, the interviewer would like you to dig deeper and bring this education to life for them. Discuss how your education has prepared you for this job with Merrill Lynch.

"I will never be finished when it comes to my education and learning. Although my degree is in business administration, and not specifically finance, my school did prepare me very well for a career in wealth management. I took courses in economics, finance, management, and marketing; all important facets of wealth management."

Do you consider yourself analytically minded, or more creatively driven?

"My analytical skills shine through when detecting patterns in finance trends, observing and interpreting data, and theorizing on where the market is going. I incorporate my creative side when brainstorming ideas for my clients. I remain highly analytical since those important decisions lean on multiple market factors. I take pride in my ability to pivot between analytical and creative thinking."

It's important to remember when answering this question that everyone can be analytically minded and creative at the same time. In fact, the two approaches can intertwine very well. Since being analytical is a significant part of working in the wealth management industry, keep your response more focused on your analytical capabilities. Your analytical mind may show up when it comes time to investigate a problem and research its solutions. Perhaps you are very methodical in how you approach your investment strategies. Talk a bit about your analytical mind, and how it will benefit Merrill Lynch, should you be the successful candidate.

"I work on strengthening my analytical skills every day. While attending university, I would collect and analyze information, problem-solve, and make decisions based on various sets of data. I will bring my analytical strengths to Merrill Lynch to help you solve problems but at the same time, I will also bring a creative drive, ensuring that I put a human touch into business development and client relationships."

If hired at Merrill Lynch how will you show our clients that you are a trusted resource?

"Building client trust begins long before the client officially hires me. Every month I provide my prospects and clients with a free, in-depth market report. I research and write the report myself, ensuring that I am a thought leader and someone they can trust. If big news comes out, I aim to be the first person in their inbox, offering them tips on how to max out their investments. If hired by Merrill Lynch, I will provide immense value to everyone you serve."

Clients trust Merrill Lynch with billions upon billions of dollars, so they need to know that you are a good fit for their team; carrying the torch of trust! As a professional in the wealth management industry, you must be capable of quickly instilling a feeling of confidence in your clients. This trust includes knowing that you are armed with the most up-to-date information, protecting their money and helping them to grow their financial situation. Discuss what you do to show potential clients that you should be their go-to source when it comes to their financial future.

"The fastest way for me to show Merrill Lynch clients that I am a trusted resource is to listen to them. Once I come from a place of complete understanding, knowing exactly their situation, only then will I begin to make recommendations. Then, it's imperative that I make recommendations that empower them to make wise decisions."

What factors most significantly impact the wealth management industry, today?

"According to a very intriguing report released recently by Deloitte, there are ten primary factors that impact the wealth management industry. These factors include a higher intensity of competition, increased regulatory burdens, a new generation of investors who think entirely differently, and the introduction of artificial intelligence. These are to name a few. It's important to me that I keep up with these rising trends as they directly impact my career in wealth management and the financial success of my clients."

Merrill Lynch needs to see that you come with a full understanding of the factors that impact their business, industry, and clients. As a professional in the wealth-management industry, you keep up to date with what's happening in global news, and you turn to reputable resources for the latest information. Discuss what you believe to be the most significant factors that are impacting the wealth management industry today.

"I follow many blogs and publications from companies such as your own, Goldman Sachs, and Morgan Stanley. The factors and topics touched on the most often include previous financial crisis, adapting to quickly changing market environments, shareholder expectations, strict regulations that change often, and milestones in tech. I believe that together, all of these topics shape the wealth management industry in a sometimes unpredictable way."

Think about a demanding boss, client, or co-worker. How did you learn to interact with this individual?

"I struggled most with an executive at my previous company. She was brought on with minimal experience in the finance industry but was known to be a 'turn-around artist' across multiple industries. She came out of the gates hard and lacked some professional couth. To win her over; I invited her to lunch with one of my biggest clients. I wanted her to see my work first-hand while also spending one-on-one time together. During that lunch, we bonded as humans, mothers, and professionals who had common goals. She learned a lot about the company and industry, and I learned a lot about the skills she brought from her previous roles."

The wealth management industry is high-stakes and requires a great deal of thick skin at times. The interviewer wants to know how you interact with those who have challenging personalities. Think about an individual in the workplace who you found difficult to please, and how you ended up interacting with them successfully. Show the interviewer that you can adapt to a variety of personalities while remaining professional. Avoid speaking poorly of anyone and be sure to end your response on a positive note.

"I have worked most of my career in the finance and banking industry, which attracts a large variety of personalities. I am a warm person by nature and have found it challenging to connect with those who are mostly analytical. My former boss was this way, so I adapted by sticking solely to the facts when in meetings; presenting data and minimal opinion. It wasn't the deepest relationship that I've had in my career, but I made it work."

At Merrill Lynch you will be presented with new information every day. Talk to me about your preferred learning style.

"I am a visual learner, and I use images to recall information. This learning preference is why Venn diagrams and graphs are so helpful to me when I am taking in data, and new concepts. I like to dive in and become involved in the materials right from the start; which allows me to absorb information much more quickly. While completing my initial CFP designation, I watched a lot of video tutorials online, for instance. This method helped me to commit particular concepts and methods to memory."

The interviewer would like to know how you best learn, as far as your studying and work styles, how you absorb new information, and how you remain disciplined. Think about your post-secondary education and how you organized, managed and arranged your work. How you answer this question can determine if your learning style will be a match for the training style of Merrill Lynch or even the mentorship style of the person to whom you would be reporting.

"As a university student, and now as I grow my career, I find that I learn best when I am on the move. I am a high-energy person, so if I can listen to an audiobook while running on the treadmill before work, I can nail a presentation on that book quickly after. I also learn kinetically; for instance, when I was memorizing finance terms in university, I created flashcards for myself. This approach was also very effective."

Tell me about your biggest failure and how you recovered.

"One of the bigger perceived failures was right at the beginning of my post-secondary career when I did not graduate when I was expected to. I encountered a few personal factors that pushed my graduation date back one year. It was embarrassing at the time, but truth be told, I am thankful that I could complete my degree at a comfortable pace. I finished on the Dean's List and am very proud of that accomplishment."

Everyone has failed at some point in their career. The important part is how we pick ourselves up and bounce back after the perceived failure. Many failures can be traced back to negative thinking, insecurities, lack of research, unproductive behavior, restricted thinking, poor communication skills, and lack of passion or goals. Give the interviewer an example of a time when the outcome was not what you wanted or expected, but you were able to recover. Discuss what you learned from the situation.

"For the first three years of my career, I was terrible at graciously receiving feedback. Had I been able to receive feedback without becoming defensive, I believe that I could have grown in my career much faster. Last year, I took a workshop on giving and receiving feedback, which helped a great deal. Now, I understand how to have these types of conversations and how to implement the constructive criticism that I receive."

The wealth management industry is highly competitive. When it comes to your performance, would you say you 'love to win,' or you 'hate to lose?'

"I love to win although losing is inevitable now and then. When I am not winning, it's essential that I learn from the experience, and implement changes from it, rather than dwell. As a highly commissioned wealth management professional, the love to win on behalf of my clients is what drives me."

Wealth management, depending on your job function, can be a cutthroat industry. If you are a wealth manager or private banker, often you only 'eat what you kill' meaning you are paid only when you close business. Often, wealth manager seats are revolving as it's easy to get fired from clients when they feel you are underperforming. These are just some of the ways that you need to remain competitive in the wealth management industry. There isn't a wrong answer to this question. The interviewer would like to see that you are not a sore loser and that you bring the competition needed to succeed at Merrill Lynch. Speak a bit about your competitive side and your desire to succeed.

"'I hate to lose' is more descriptive of me, although not in a negative way. I am a bit of a perfectionist when it comes to the work that I deliver, which means that I dislike disappointing my boss, my clients, and myself. With that said, I know there is always something to learn from losing."

Have you ever bent or broken any policies to make a client happy?

"We strictly enforce policy and rules in my current company. I understand the need to be very careful when it comes to breaching any laws related to finance, and more. If the policy bent is something like waiving a small administration fee, then I will gain permission from my supervisor before doing so. However, I would not consider breaking a significant policy or legislation to make a client happy. I would work harder to find an alternative solution."

This question is a blend of both honesty-based, and client-service inquires. Breaking the rules, and bending them can be different from each other. Sometimes, organizations are okay with you bending the rules to keep a client happy; however, in the wealth management and finance industry, this is a very tight rope to walk. You need to know your audience and ensure that you never break any legal obligations in the name of customer service.

"I have been trained to know that rules and policy are present for excellent reasons. If I were not sure what to do or were asked to break or bend a rule, I would speak with my management to see what could be done to make the client happy without entering a grey area."

How would you sell an investment product you did not believe in?

"I can almost always find something positive in a product or service offering; however, that does not mean that I stand behind it. So, in a nutshell, I would not sell an investment product that I would not buy into myself. A great deal of my work, as an advisor, is to uncover those features and draw attention to them, allowing my customer to see the full picture before making investment decisions. I appreciate that Merrill Lynch operates by the same philosophy, which is one of the reasons why I applied to work for you."

Think carefully before answering because this could be a trick question! Of course, the answer should be that you would never sell an investment product in which you did not believe. The interviewer wants to know that you will uphold the integrity of Merrill Lynch by only promoting products to your clients that you can stand behind.

"I would never sell an investment product in which I did not believe. Before making any suggestions to clients, I think about what I would do if it were my financial future. If I feel any tug of hesitation at all, I do further research before bringing the option to the table."

Are you applying for jobs with any Merrill Lynch direct competitors?

"I am in the process of exploring opportunities at wealth management firms that appeal to me; however, I am selective about where my applications go. I am very excited about this particular opportunity with Merrill Lynch and I look forward to the next round of interviews."

The wealth management industry is a competitive one. It is essential to Merrill Lynch that they understand where you are in your job search, and which roles or companies are most appealing to you. Also, it can make the interviewer and hiring process a bit smoother when Merrill Lynch knows what they need to do to remain competitive. Tell the interviewer about your search so far without disclosing every single detail. It's okay to leave a bit of mystery!

"I have not applied to any other roles at this time but will be taking a closer look at other openings in the next few days. When I heard there was a position open with Merrill Lynch, I had to jump on the opportunity to apply. Your reputation is second-to-none, and I would be thrilled to continue building my portfolio with your esteemed organization."

What questions do you have for me on this job, and working for Merrill Lynch?

"Thank you for asking! A couple of questions come to mind. What do you see as the biggest challenge Merrill Lynch will be facing in the next 12 months? Also, what is your wealth manager turnover rate? Lastly, could you tell me about the retention plan you currently have in place for your wealth managers?"

Not having any questions is not a badge of honor! Many times in interviews, candidates will not have questions prepared, thinking this shows off how well-researched and prepared they are. However, the truth is quite the opposite. By asking a couple of pre-prepared questions, you are showing the interviewer full engagement and interest. Be sure that your queries are not mundane or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a question that is easily answered by simple research. Dig a bit deeper and ask questions such as: - How has Merrill Lynch embraced FinTech advancements this year? - What is your favorite part about working for Merrill Lynch? - What is Merrill Lynch biggest goal in the next 12 months? - What do you see as the most significant change in the wealth management industry over the next two years? - Is there anything from my resume, or our conversation, that I can clarify for you? - Is there any reason why you would not hire me?

"I would like to ask if there is anything in my work or educational background on which you need clarification? Also, after discussing everything today, is there any particular reason why I would not be the best fit for this wealth manager role Merrill Lynch?"

Merrill Lynch Interview Questions

Go Back

1. Merrill Lynch provides fundamental insights and analysis for clients in the equity, fixed income, currency, and commodities markets. Which areas of research are most important to you?
2. How does Merrill Lynch keep its clients informed on critical finance-related topics?
3. What can you do for Merrill Lynch that other candidates cannot?
4. Talk to me about one piece of financial news you are currently following.
5. Where do you see the economy going this year?
6. What are the three most important traits for a high-end wealth management professional to possess?
7. If you advised a client to hedge against risk in their portfolio, but they wanted to take an alternate action that could hurt their long-term goals, what would you do?
8. What is your professional mission statement?
9. If you helped someone make their first investment, what are the first steps you would take?
10. Merrill Lynch wants to ensure that you are a strategic fit. Tell me more about your investing strategy.
11. Tell me about your professional designations, and how you aim to further your education in the next three years.
12. Name for me one significant deal or accomplishment by Merrill Lynch in the last 12 months.
13. What differentiates Merrill Lynch from other high-end wealth management firms?
14. Tell me about a stock you follow. Why should I buy them?
15. Merrill Lynch wealth managers work independently. What makes you an entrepreneurial minded professional?
16. Please define CAPM for me.
17. Give me an example of someone in the finance industry with a lot of integrity.
18. What is your favorite resource for wealth-management and finance related news?
19. How does your post-secondary education relate to a career in wealth management?
20. Do you consider yourself analytically minded, or more creatively driven?
21. If hired at Merrill Lynch how will you show our clients that you are a trusted resource?
22. What factors most significantly impact the wealth management industry, today?
23. Think about a demanding boss, client, or co-worker. How did you learn to interact with this individual?
24. At Merrill Lynch you will be presented with new information every day. Talk to me about your preferred learning style.
25. Tell me about your biggest failure and how you recovered.
26. The wealth management industry is highly competitive. When it comes to your performance, would you say you 'love to win,' or you 'hate to lose?'
27. Have you ever bent or broken any policies to make a client happy?
28. How would you sell an investment product you did not believe in?
29. Are you applying for jobs with any Merrill Lynch direct competitors?
30. What questions do you have for me on this job, and working for Merrill Lynch?

Merrill Lynch Interview Questions

1. Merrill Lynch provides fundamental insights and analysis for clients in the equity, fixed income, currency, and commodities markets. Which areas of research are most important to you?

2. How does Merrill Lynch keep its clients informed on critical finance-related topics?

3. What can you do for Merrill Lynch that other candidates cannot?

4. Talk to me about one piece of financial news you are currently following.

5. Where do you see the economy going this year?

6. What are the three most important traits for a high-end wealth management professional to possess?

7. If you advised a client to hedge against risk in their portfolio, but they wanted to take an alternate action that could hurt their long-term goals, what would you do?

8. What is your professional mission statement?

9. If you helped someone make their first investment, what are the first steps you would take?

10. Merrill Lynch wants to ensure that you are a strategic fit. Tell me more about your investing strategy.

11. Tell me about your professional designations, and how you aim to further your education in the next three years.

12. Name for me one significant deal or accomplishment by Merrill Lynch in the last 12 months.

13. What differentiates Merrill Lynch from other high-end wealth management firms?

14. Tell me about a stock you follow. Why should I buy them?

15. Merrill Lynch wealth managers work independently. What makes you an entrepreneurial minded professional?

16. Please define CAPM for me.

17. Give me an example of someone in the finance industry with a lot of integrity.

18. What is your favorite resource for wealth-management and finance related news?

19. How does your post-secondary education relate to a career in wealth management?

20. Do you consider yourself analytically minded, or more creatively driven?

21. If hired at Merrill Lynch how will you show our clients that you are a trusted resource?

22. What factors most significantly impact the wealth management industry, today?

23. Think about a demanding boss, client, or co-worker. How did you learn to interact with this individual?

24. At Merrill Lynch you will be presented with new information every day. Talk to me about your preferred learning style.

25. Tell me about your biggest failure and how you recovered.

26. The wealth management industry is highly competitive. When it comes to your performance, would you say you 'love to win,' or you 'hate to lose?'

27. Have you ever bent or broken any policies to make a client happy?

28. How would you sell an investment product you did not believe in?

29. Are you applying for jobs with any Merrill Lynch direct competitors?

30. What questions do you have for me on this job, and working for Merrill Lynch?