If networking gets you noticed, the HireVue determines whether you move forward.
Most students overthink this step. They write scripts, stare at themselves instead of the camera, or fall apart the second the countdown starts. The HireVue feels intimidating because there is no interviewer, no feedback, and no real-time reaction.
This week, we break down how to approach HireVues with confidence and structure so you can stand out for the right reasons.
Step 1: What a HireVue Actually Is
A HireVue is not a real interview. It is a recorded video screen that lets banks filter candidates quickly.
You get:
- 30 seconds to prepare your answer
- 90 seconds to respond
- No human interaction
- Sometimes one chance to re-record
The goal is not to deliver a perfect answer. The goal is to avoid the red flags that lead to an immediate rejection. If you stay clear, structured, and professional, you will move on.
Step 2: Use the 30–90 Framework
This is the simplest way to answer any HireVue question without sounding rehearsed.
The 30 second prep phase
Use the thinking time to identify four points:
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Your main point
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One sentence of context
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Two or three actions you took
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One sentence that ties back to the role
You are not writing a script. You are outlining a clean path for your answer.
The 90 second delivery structure
(0 to 10 seconds) Start with a direct answer to the question.
(10 to 25 seconds) Briefly set the context.
(25 to 60 seconds) Describe the actions you took.
(60 to 85 seconds) Explain the result or insight.
(85 to 90 seconds) Tie it back to why it matters for investment banking or the team.
This structure keeps your answer organized, polished, and easy to follow.
Step 3: The Three Types of HireVue Questions
Almost every HireVue question falls into one of these categories. Once you master these templates, the process becomes predictable.
A. Behavioral
Examples: teamwork, challenges, leadership, strengths, weakness, why IB, why this bank.
Use the structure: opening, context, action, result, tie-back.
You only need three solid stories. You can reuse them across many prompts.
B. Deal or Market
Examples: a deal you follow, a market trend that interests you, a headline that matters.
Use the structure: topic, context, analysis, takeaway, tie-back.
You are not expected to be an economist. You only need to show awareness and basic reasoning.
C. Light technical
Examples: DCF, financial statements, comps, WACC, equity value vs enterprise value.
Use the structure: definition, two to four steps, key driver, tie-back.
These questions are simple by design.
Step 4: Mistakes That Lead to Rejection
These are the issues that consistently filter out candidates.
- Looking at your own screen instead of the camera
- Reading from a script
- Rambling or going off-topic
- Low energy or monotone delivery
- Poor lighting or a distracting background
- Unclear or indirect answers
- Speaking too fast or cramming too much
HireVue is not intended to find the best candidate. It is designed to screen out the obvious no’s. Your job is simply not to be one of them.
Step 5: How to Practice Effectively
You do not need long study sessions. You need short, consistent practice.
Here is the best method:
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Record a five-question mock using the exact timing: 30 seconds of prep and 90 seconds of speaking
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Use a mix of behavioral, market, and light technical questions
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Watch your recording back and note clarity, pacing, and structure
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Repeat this for three or four days, ten minutes at a time
Students improve the most when they watch their own recordings. It is uncomfortable, but it works.
