Why our firm specifically?
Answer
Connect your answer to: (1) Deals or groups you find interesting — name one or two recent deals or specific groups (sector or product); (2) Culture — what you've heard from current or former employees that resonates with you; (3) Bankers you've talked to — reference specific networking conversations; (4) Strategic positioning — the firm's strengths (e.g., 'Goldman is the leader in M&A advisory and has the strongest sponsor relationships'). Always tie your interests to the firm's actual strengths.
Why interviewers ask this
Interviewers can tell when you're recycling answers across firms. Specifics matter. Mention a named MD or VP you've spoken with. Reference a specific recent deal the firm advised on, and have a substantive point about it. Demonstrate you've thought about why THIS firm vs. peers — comparing isn't bad if you do it tactfully. Avoid platitudes like 'great culture' or 'top firm' without backing them up.