FinTech Futures Jobs: five things a fintech start-up founder will ask you in an interview
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Interviewing in a fintech company is different from interviewing in other industries. Why? Well, because it is a relatively new phenomenon, meaning that many fintech companies are start-ups.
A lot of the time, in a start-up, you will have a conversation directly with the founder, something that doesn’t necessarily happen in larger, more established businesses. As a result, you may find the questions you are asked to be somewhat different.
Here are some examples of what a fintech founder may ask you during an interview (and check out FinTech Futures Jobs for the current vacancies in the world of fintech!):
What’s the best advice you have ever gotten?
When working in an industry like fintech, you need to be fearlessly innovative (comes with the territory), but you also willing to receive advice, guidance, and constructive criticism. So, don’t be surprised if a founder asks you to share some of the best advice you’ve heard lately. It’s a great way for them to gauge how receptive you are to input, and what messages actually stick with you and make an impact.
How would you improve our product?
When you answer this, remember the person asking the question is the founder of the company (and the product offering). So yes, be critical if you need to be, but don’t over do it. Most companies aren’t just looking for someone who can keep things on track – they want someone who will innovate. Sure, that’s what the fintech industry is all about, right? Innovation!
Why THIS company?
This can actually be a really tricky one, but your answer will really say a lot. You have to remember that if you’re being interviewed by the founder of a company, then you are interviewing with the person with the most passion within the business. That person sitting in front of you more than likely eats, sleeps, and breathes the business you are interviewing for, so make sure you’re enthusiastic about why you’re there in the first place. Do your research, learn about the company values and plans, and talk about why they excite you.
What three words would you use to describe yourself?
Yes, while a little cliche, it is likely that you will be asked this question (or something similar) at some point during the interview. Be thoughtful with your answer. It should make sense in relation to the role. Think about it, if you are applying for a role in marketing, and describe yourself as creative – that will look great. If you are applying for an HR role, and you describe yourself as creative, it might not make sense (whether you are, in fact, a creative person or not).
If you’re unsuccessful here, what is your next step?
This is always an interesting question and one I have been asked a few times in my career to date. Your answer will give the interviewer an idea of what kind of person you are, how you deal with adversity, and the kind of outlook you have. When you work in fintech (and any tech industry really) there are highs and lows, much like in life. How you deal with those dips will be the making of you as a member of the team. Answer carefully, make sure you have a plan B.
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