20 Lazard Asset Management Interview Questions and Answers

Lazard Asset Management is one of the world’s leading asset management firms. With over $250 billion in assets under management, Lazard Asset Management has a global reach and a long history of success.

If you’re hoping to land a job at Lazard Asset Management, you can expect to be asked a variety of questions about your experience, qualifications, and investment knowledge. To help you prepare for your interview, we’ve gathered a list of sample Lazard Asset Management interview questions and answers.

Lazard Asset Management Interview Process

The interview process at Lazard Asset Management can vary depending on the position you are applying for. For entry-level positions, the process may only consist of one or two interviews. However, for more senior positions, the process may include multiple rounds of interviews with different members of the team. Overall, the process is generally professional and efficient.

1. Why do you want to work at Lazard?

This question can help the interviewer learn more about your interest in their company. Use this opportunity to show that you have done research on Lazard and are excited about working for them. Consider mentioning a few things that attracted you to the job, such as benefits or career advancement opportunities.

Example: “I want to work at Lazard because of its reputation for being one of the best asset management firms in the world. I am also impressed by the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, which is something I feel strongly about. Additionally, I was drawn to the firm’s flexible work schedule and generous parental leave policy.”

2. What would you say is the most difficult thing about working in the financial industry?

This question is a great way to see how the candidate views their work and what they find challenging. It’s important that you hire people who are passionate about their work, so it’s helpful if they have positive things to say about the industry.

Example: “The most difficult thing about working in the financial industry is the long hours. I know many people love this aspect of the job, but for me, it can be exhausting. I’m always looking for ways to improve my time management skills so I can get more done in less time.”

3. How would you explain a complex financial concept to someone who does not have any experience in finance?

This question is a great way to test your ability to communicate complex ideas in an easy-to-understand manner. It also shows the interviewer that you are able to simplify complicated concepts and make them accessible for others.

Example: “I would first explain what the concept means, then I would give examples of how it works in real life. For example, when explaining the term ‘hedging,’ I would start by defining it as a strategy used to reduce risk. Then, I would provide an example of how this strategy can be applied in practice. In my previous role, I had to help a client who was looking to invest in foreign currency but wanted to hedge against any potential losses.”

4. Do you think it’s important for companies to be socially responsible?

This question is a great way to assess your values and beliefs. It’s also an opportunity for you to show that you understand the company culture of Lazard Asset Management. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention specific examples of how companies have been socially responsible in the past.

Example: “I think it’s important for businesses to be socially responsible because it helps them build trust with their customers. I’ve worked at several companies where they were committed to being environmentally friendly. For example, my previous employer would recycle all paper products and use recycled materials when possible. This helped us save money while still providing our clients with quality services.”

5. Describe your role on a team project and what you contributed to the team.

Lazard Asset Management is a team-oriented company, so it’s important to show that you can work well with others. When answering this question, describe your role on the project and what skills or talents you brought to the table.

Example: “In my last position as an investment analyst, I was part of a team tasked with creating a new financial plan for our client. My primary responsibility was researching different options for the client’s portfolio, but I also contributed ideas about how we could improve their current situation. In the end, we were able to create a more profitable financial plan for the client.”

6. What are some of the biggest challenges facing the financial industry today?

This question can help the interviewer determine your understanding of current financial trends and how you might approach them. Use examples from your own experience to highlight your ability to adapt to change and solve problems.

Example: “The biggest challenge facing the financial industry today is that many people don’t understand it. Many consumers are still hesitant to invest, which means they’re missing out on a lot of opportunities for growth. I think more education about investing would be beneficial so people feel more comfortable with their finances. As an advisor, I’d like to show clients how easy it is to make smart investments and grow their wealth.”

7. Tell me about an investment that you made or researched recently.

This question can help the interviewer get a better idea of your investment experience and how you apply it to your work. You can use this opportunity to highlight an investment that was successful or one that helped you learn more about financial markets.

Example: “I recently researched a company called Green Energy Inc., which is a renewable energy provider. I found that the company’s stock price had dropped significantly, so I decided to do some research on why. After looking at the company’s recent earnings reports, I realized that the drop in stock price was due to lower-than-expected sales numbers. However, after further investigation, I learned that the company was expecting a large government contract that would increase its revenue by 20%. I recommended that my client purchase shares of Green Energy Inc. because I knew that the company could recover from the low sales.”

8. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

This question is a common one in interviews, and it’s often asked to see if you have career goals. When answering this question, be honest about your intentions for the future. If you’re unsure of what you want to do in five years, explain that you are looking for a long-term career with growth opportunities.

Example: “I would like to continue working at Lazard Asset Management as an investment analyst. I am passionate about finance and investing, so I hope to grow my skills and knowledge in this field. In five years, I’d love to have earned my CFA certification and become a senior investment analyst.”

9. Explain how interest rates affect bond prices.

Interest rates are a major factor in the success of any bond portfolio. The interviewer will want to know that you understand how interest rates affect the value of bonds and how this can impact your ability to manage the company’s assets. Use examples from your previous experience to explain how interest rates work with bonds.

Example: “Interest rates directly affect the price of a bond, which is why it’s important to monitor them closely. When interest rates rise, the value of existing bonds falls because they’re no longer as attractive to investors. If interest rates fall, however, then the value of existing bonds rises.”

10. Tell us about a time when you had to deal with a difficult client.

This question can help interviewers learn more about your interpersonal skills. They want to know how you handle conflict and whether or not you have the ability to diffuse it. In your answer, try to focus on a specific situation where you were able to resolve the issue without causing any harm to your relationship with the client.

Example: “I once had a client who was very upset because they lost money in one of our investments. I listened carefully to what they had to say and tried to understand their concerns. After that, I explained why we made the investment decision we did and showed them some historical data to prove our strategy worked well for other clients. The client understood my reasoning and decided to stay with us.”

11. Do you have previous experience working as an administrative assistant?

Administrative assistants are responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of a company. They often have to manage multiple projects at once, so employers ask this question to make sure you’re experienced enough to handle the responsibilities of the role. If you do have experience working as an administrative assistant, be sure to highlight your most important skills and how they relate to the job.

Example: “I’ve worked as an administrative assistant for five years now. In my current position, I am responsible for scheduling meetings, answering phones, filing paperwork and organizing documents. I also work with multiple software programs that help me complete these tasks more efficiently.”

12. What was one time where you disagreed with your manager, how did you handle it?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle disagreements and challenges at work. Use your answer to highlight your ability to communicate effectively with others, collaborate on projects and solve problems.

Example: “I once disagreed with my manager about a client’s portfolio because I felt that the investments we were making weren’t in line with their financial goals. Instead of just voicing my opinion, I scheduled a meeting with my manager so we could discuss my concerns together. After our discussion, my manager agreed to change some of the investments in the client’s portfolio. This helped me show my manager that I value collaboration and communication.”

13. Have you ever worked on a remote team before?

Lazard Asset Management is a global company, so it’s likely that you’ll be working with people from other locations. The interviewer wants to know if you’ve worked on a remote team before and how your experience was. If you haven’t, explain what you think the challenges of working remotely are and how you would overcome them.

Example: “I have never worked on a remote team before, but I am excited about the opportunity to do so. I understand that communication will be key in making sure we’re all on the same page. To ensure this happens, I plan to use video conferencing software and hold regular meetings where everyone can share their progress.”

14. What is your experience using Bloomberg Terminal?

The Bloomberg Terminal is a financial software that many investment firms use. This question allows you to show your experience with the terminal and how it can benefit Lazard Asset Management. If you have used the terminal before, describe what you did on it. If you haven’t used it before, explain why you would be willing to learn.

Example: “I’ve worked in finance for five years now, and I’ve been using the Bloomberg Terminal since my first job. It’s an essential tool for any professional who works in finance because it provides real-time information about stocks, bonds and other securities. I find it easy to navigate and understand its features.”

15. Are you comfortable working in a fast-paced environment?

Lazard Asset Management is a fast-paced environment, and the interviewer wants to make sure you’re comfortable with that. If you have experience working in a similar environment, share your thoughts on how it can be beneficial. If you don’t have any experience, explain why you think you would thrive in this type of work environment.

Example: “I’ve worked in a fast-paced environment before, and I find it quite enjoyable. It’s nice to feel like you’re constantly accomplishing something, and I’m always looking for ways to improve my skills. Lazard Asset Management seems like an exciting place to work because there are so many opportunities to learn new things.”

16. What do you know about our company culture?

The interviewer may ask this question to see if you have done your research on the company. They want to know that you are genuinely interested in working for them and not just looking for a job. When answering, make sure to mention something specific about their culture that appeals to you.

Example: “I’ve read several articles about Lazard Asset Management’s unique culture. I think it is really cool how they encourage employees to take risks and be innovative with their ideas. It seems like there is a lot of trust between managers and employees, which makes me excited to work here.”

17. What skills do you bring to this position?

This question is an opportunity to highlight your relevant skills and experience. When answering this question, it can be helpful to refer to the job description or any other materials you reviewed before your interview. This will help you make sure that you are highlighting the skills they’re looking for in a candidate.

Example: “I have five years of experience as a financial analyst, which has given me the ability to analyze data and create reports. I also have three years of experience working with clients, so I understand how important communication is when providing advice. Finally, I am familiar with many different software programs used by investment firms, including Microsoft Office and Bloomberg.”

18. Give an example of a time when you had to use your analytical skills.

This question is a great way to show your interviewer that you have the skills necessary for this role. When answering, it can be helpful to use an example from your previous job or one that shows how you would apply these skills in this position.

Example: “In my last position as a financial analyst, I was tasked with creating reports and presentations on various companies. One of my responsibilities was to analyze company data and create graphs and charts to help our clients understand their finances. This helped me develop my analytical skills and learn more about different industries.”

19. Can you talk more about your past internship experiences?

Lazard Asset Management is a highly competitive internship program. The company wants to know that you have the skills and experience necessary for success in their environment. When answering this question, be sure to highlight your relevant work experiences.

Example: “I had two internships during my undergraduate studies. My first internship was at a local accounting firm where I worked as an accountant. There, I learned how to manage financial records and reports. I also gained valuable knowledge about tax law and compliance. My second internship was with a large investment bank where I got to learn more about asset management. I helped create marketing strategies for clients and learned how to use data analytics to make informed decisions.”

20. Which part of the financial process interests you the most?

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your level of interest in their company’s specific industry. It also helps them determine which department you might fit best in if hired. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a few things that interest you about the financial process and how they relate to Lazard Asset Management.

Example: “I find the most interesting part of the financial process is helping clients make informed decisions with their money. I love working with people who are passionate about investing and want to learn more about making smart choices with their finances. I think Lazard Asset Management does an excellent job at providing valuable information to help investors make good decisions.”