Morgan Stanley Hirevue Questions (and How to Answer Them)

Morgan Stanley is one of the leading investment banking companies globally, alongside Goldman Sachs and J.P. Morgan. Morgan Stanley’s HireVue interviews are a vital part of their hiring selection process to review a candidate's technical knowledge, behavioral competencies, and cultural fit through recorded video responses. This digital interview helps Morgan Stanley screen thousands of qualified candidates quickly— it goes beyond a simple screening tool as it opens doors to achieving career goals.

This detailed guide and expert tips for answering Morgan Stanley HireVue questions will give insights into handling behavioral questions well, looking professional on camera, and structuring answers within the time limit.

Common Morgan Stanley HireVue Questions

Morgan Stanley conducts HireVue interviews that include several behavioral questions. Candidates get 30 seconds to prepare and 1.5 minutes to record their answers. The platform offers one retry chance for each question.

Why are you interested in Morgan Stanley?

Morgan Stanley's behavioral interviews include this question about 20% of the time. Your answer should reflect Morgan Stanley's core values and recent initiatives. The best responses emphasize the company's steadfast dedication to excellence, breakthroughs, and client service. You could mention Morgan Stanley's sustainability initiatives or its Multicultural Innovation Lab that line up with the company's values and show your industry knowledge.

Here’s an example of a strong response:

“I am drawn to Morgan Stanley because of its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and diversity, all of which reflect my personal and professional values. I am especially inspired by Morgan Stanley’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, a target that shows the firm’s leadership in sustainable finance. Moreover, the Multicultural Innovation Lab is a clear example of Morgan Stanley’s dedication to creating opportunities for diverse founders, which aligns with my belief in the power of diversity to drive business success and positive societal impact.”

They could also ask questions like “Why investment banking?” which could further expand opportunities to explain one’s potential, qualities, and insights.

Tell me about yourself

When answering the "Tell me about yourself" question during the Morgan Stanley HireVue interview, start with a concise overview of your background, focusing on experiences relevant to the role. Highlight key accomplishments, specific skills, or internships that align with Morgan Stanley’s values, such as innovation, collaboration, and client focus. End with a brief explanation of why you're excited about Morgan Stanley and how you see yourself contributing to their team. Keep your answer structured, professional, and to the point, ideally under 2 minutes.

Here’s an example response:

"I’m currently a finance major at [University] with internship experience in [specific field, e.g., investment banking or wealth management], where I developed strong analytical and problem-solving skills. During my time at [Company/Program], I worked on [specific project or achievement], which gave me hands-on experience with [specific tools, skills, or concepts, like financial modeling or client relations]. Outside of academics and work, I’m actively involved in [relevant extracurriculars, e.g., finance club, case competitions], where I honed my [specific skills like teamwork, leadership, or communication]. I’m drawn to Morgan Stanley because of its reputation for [specific value, like innovation, collaboration, or mentorship opportunities], and I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to and grow within your team."

Describe a challenge you've faced and how you overcame it

Morgan Stanley evaluates candidates' problem-solving abilities and resilience through this question. The firm seeks responses that showcase analytical thinking and positive outcomes. A compelling answer should align with the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) and include relevant details.

The interviewer aims to understand how candidates manage pressure and tackle obstacles. To cite an instance, you could share your experience with a complex financial model challenge—perhaps one involving equity value and enterprise value calculations—or a difficult client interaction. Your response should highlight the specific steps you took to resolve the situation. The focus should remain on your problem-solving approach and the lessons learned from these challenging experiences.

Morgan Stanley assesses both the substance of answers and their presentation. Your responses need structure and should reflect your genuine interest in the role and company.

How to Prepare for a Morgan Stanley HireVue Interview

A strategic approach with research, practice, and organized responses will help you ace Morgan Stanley's HireVue interview. The digital interview approximately takes 30 minutes to complete, with 3-5 questions.

Really research the company

Candidates should get a detailed understanding of Morgan Stanley's operations and culture. This has:

• The firm's integrated capabilities and core values
• Recent market positioning and financial news
• The specific program or division you want to join
• Current industry trends and breakthroughs
• Recent notable deals and transactions

Practice your video interviewing skills

HireVue interviews happen online, so you need specific ways to prepare. Morgan Stanley recommends practicing several times before the actual interview or during your free time, including recording practice sessions and seeking feedback on lighting, setting, and sound quality. You should focus on these key areas:

1. Make sure your technical equipment works perfectly
2. Get your lighting and background right
3. Look directly at the camera when speaking
4. Record yourself practicing and review it
5. Ask others to watch and give feedback on your delivery

Prepare for mostly behavioral questions

Morgan Stanley has expanded their HireVue questions beyond the traditional 2-3 format since 2022. Most questions focus on behavioral scenarios, while technical questions remain nowhere near as common for entry-level positions. The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) works best especially when you have to structure your responses to behavioral questions.

Provide concise, structured answers

Each question allows 30 seconds of preparation time and 1.5 minutes for response, with one retry chance. Time management is significant in delivering effective answers. Candidates should:

Provide clear and concise responses that showcase qualifications that work best within the time limit. Short, focused answers are preferred over lengthy explanations. Candidates don't need to use all the allocated time—concise, well-laid-out responses often create a stronger impression.

Responses should come naturally instead of using memorized answers. This helps you stay authentic and shows your professional communication skills. A good balance between preparation and natural delivery ensures your answers feel genuine rather than rehearsed.

Tips for Succeeding in Your Morgan Stanley HireVue

A candidate's presentation and technical setup will define success for a Morgan Stanley HireVue by a lot. The virtual interview format needs a professional appearance and proper environmental factors that create the best possible impression.

Dress professionally

A professional appearance plays a significant role in virtual settings. Candidates should avoid loud colors and busy prints, opting instead for dark blue and other subtle solids that appear best on camera. Morgan Stanley expects a business professional dress code, and Morgan Stanley recruiters specifically emphasize the importance of a polished appearance. Your comfort matters during home interviews, but your professional image should match Morgan Stanley's corporate culture.

Choose a quiet, well-lit location

Creating the perfect interview environment is important for making a great impression. Start by choosing a quiet, private room free from distractions, with a clean, neutral background to maintain professionalism. Ensure your internet connection is strong and stable to avoid interruptions. Lighting plays a key role as well—opt for professional lighting by positioning table lamps about three feet from each side of your screen for balanced facial illumination. Avoid sitting in front of windows with direct sunlight or under overhead lighting that creates harsh shadows. A well-lit, distraction-free setup helps you stay focused and appear polished during your interview.

Look directly at your camera

Your virtual presence hinges on how you position your camera to create an engaging and professional appearance. Set the camera slightly above eye level, aligned with the top of your head, and tilt it downward for a flattering angle. Keep reminder notes near the camera at eye level to maintain a natural gaze and move or resize your screen image closer to the webcam to enhance eye contact. These simple adjustments help create a polished and confident impression.

Speak clearly and confidently

Morgan Stanley emphasizes authenticity in communication and encourages candidates to "be themselves" while maintaining a professional demeanor. The interview consists of 3-5 questions and takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. Here are the key speaking points candidates should consider:

• Share ideas with energy and a positive attitude
• Take natural pauses and avoid rushing through responses
• Stay authentic while keeping it professional
• Speak clearly with proper pacing

The platform gives you 30 seconds to prepare and up to 2 minutes for each response, and recording stops immediately when time expires. Candidates have two opportunities to re-record their answers if needed but use this option wisely.

Success comes when candidates create a comfortable setting that lets them focus on their responses. This means verifying technical elements like wifi strength and removing distractions before starting. Morgan Stanley seeks people who bring their authentic selves to work, so prepare well but keep responses natural and genuine.

What to Expect After Your Morgan Stanley HireVue

Morgan Stanley follows a well-laid-out recruitment process once candidates complete their HireVue interview. Candidates should know what comes next to prepare themselves better and set the right expectations for future stages.

Timeline for hearing back

Morgan Stanley provides feedback to candidates within 24 to 48 hours after completing their HireVue interview. The recruitment process follows a detailed schedule that spans across several months:

• August-September: Application window opens and closes
• September-October: Online assessments begin
• October-November: First-round interviews (HireVue)
• November-December: Assessment center invitations
• December-January: Final round interviews
• January-February: Offer letters and background checks 5-6 months total recruitment timeline

Next steps in the interview process

Candidates who pass the HireVue round advance to the assessment center, which consists of two key components. The Technical Evaluation includes two coding interviews, a system design interview, and discussions on data structures. The Behavioral Assessment involves one to two verbal interviews focusing on teamwork skills and project experience. Successful candidates typically receive an offer within a week of their final interview. The background check process varies, taking about two weeks for junior roles and up to two months for senior positions.

How to follow up appropriately

A well-executed follow-up shows your interest and respect for the recruitment process. Here's what you need to know:

• Thank You Notes: You can send a brief thank-you message after your interview
• Timeline Expectations: The entire process from application to offer can span 5-6 months
• Communication Channels: Keep all communication through official channels
• Background Check Period: Get your documents ready for the 2-week to 2-month verification process

After passing the HireVue stage, successful candidates move into the final evaluation phases, culminating in an offer that includes details on compensation, benefits, employment terms, and start date. For summer programs, new hires typically begin in early June, with comprehensive training and orientation to ease the transition into Morgan Stanley’s work environment. The background check process is thorough, covering internship verification, educational history, criminal records, and professional references to ensure a smooth onboarding experience.

While you wait, stay sharp with your professional prep and keep up with Morgan Stanley's latest news. This shows your steadfast dedication and keeps you ready for any additional talk or technical assessments that may come up.

Conclusion

Success in the Morgan Stanley HireVue interview just requires you to focus on several key elements, from full company research to refined video presentation skills. The best candidates blend their deep knowledge of Morgan Stanley's values and operations with genuine responses. A strong foundation to move forward in the selection process comes from professional presentation, technical preparation, and well-laid-out answers within time limits.

As you approach the finish line of your investment banking preparation, don't leave your success hanging on the coat rack. Take the next step and get expert guidance from Top Investment Banking Coaches at Leland to secure your edge.

FAQs

What types of questions are typically asked in a Morgan Stanley HireVue interview?

• In a Morgan Stanley HireVue interview, candidates might be asked a variety of questions including their motivation for pursuing a career in finance, methods for staying informed about financial news, and to discuss ethical dilemmas or interesting financial transactions they have encountered.

How can I excel in a Morgan Stanley HireVue interview?

• To excel in a Morgan Stanley HireVue interview, it's crucial to maintain eye contact with the camera, articulate your own words clearly without unnecessary pauses, and keep your demeanor natural. Dressing professionally as if you were in an in-person interview is also essential.

Does Morgan Stanley give everyone a HireVue?

• Resume screening, then online game assessment. HR will selectively send out HireVue.

What are some common behavioral questions asked in Morgan Stanley's HireVue interviews?

• Common behavioral questions in Morgan Stanley's HireVue interviews often include inquiries about candidates' personal stories and past experiences, such as challenges they have faced and how they addressed them, as well as questions aimed at understanding the candidate's personality and work ethic.

How do you answer the question “Why Morgan Stanley?”

• “Its commitment to innovation, delivering value for clients, and constant advancement align with my values and ambitions. I am particularly impressed by Morgan Stanley's culture of elite performance and respect for diversity.”

How does HireVue detect cheating?

• During the interview process, HireVue can tell whether the candidate is cheating by analyzing and monitoring the voice or the behavior like the eye and mouse movements. Meanwhile, its AI Algorithms will access responses for consistency and potential plagiarism.

How to ace a Morgan Stanley interview?

• Be yourself. Know your strengths and be able to talk to the areas you want to develop. Answer each question the best you can. We don't always expect candidates to have the right answer during an interview—we're interested in seeing how you work through a scenario.

What is Morgan Stanley in simple words?

• Morgan Stanley is a global leader in executing transactions in cash equity-related products for institutional clients around the world.

Can HireVue detect eye movement?

• As an AI-based technology, the HireVue platform can track and analyze your eye and mouse movements and assess your voice to identify potential instances of cheating.

Can you redo the answers on HireVue?

• Once an interview response has been submitted, it's not possible to return to that question in the interview. It may be possible for you to be sent a new interview link in order to retake the interview from the beginning, however, you would need to contact the hiring company with this request.

How does HireVue score you?

• The HireVue software (or whatever company is doing your interview) uses AI to analyze and score your answers. The AI algorithm evaluates major aspects of your response: Your speech, words, tone, pronunciation, voice inflection, pauses, etc.

Is the Morgan Stanley interview hard?

• Getting a job in investment banking is tough – and getting into Morgan Stanley is about as tough as it gets.

How do I know if I passed the HireVue interview?

• To check the status of your interview, open your interview invitation email from the hiring company, and click on the Interview Code at the bottom of the email.

Can HireVue detect mouse movement?

• HireVue is not specifically designed to detect or assess mouse movements. Its core functionality revolves around video interviewing and candidate assessment through verbal responses and facial cues captured on camera.

Does HireVue look for keywords?

• The HireVue AI technology will analyze your non-verbal cues and your use of language and will look for the keywords that appear in the job description.