Are you ready for the long working hours you will face in finance?

From my studies and previous internships, I am used to working on strict deadlines and working long hours. I have developed strategies to maintain my energy and stay motivated, even when it gets stressful, so I believe I am ready for what is expected. 

This question is a classic stress-test. They're not just asking if you can pull long hours—they want to know if you actually understand what you're signing up for, and whether you’ve got the mindset and stamina to stick with it when things get intense.

The key is to answer honestly, show maturity, and make it clear that you're not naïve—but you're also not afraid of the grind. Here’s how you could approach it:

Something like, “Yes, I know the hours in finance can be demanding, and I’ve thought seriously about that. I’m not under any illusions—it’s a high-pressure environment, and the workload can be intense. But I’ve worked in high-output roles before and found that when I’m working on something challenging and with the right team, I’m able to sustain that energy and stay motivated. I also know it’s not about pushing through one long week—it’s about showing up consistently and delivering quality over time, and that’s something I’m ready for.”

This kind of answer works because you're not just saying, “Sure, I’ll work hard.” You're showing that you’ve internalized what it takes, and that you see it as a trade-off you’re willing to make to grow quickly, learn deeply, and be part of something that demands your best.

If you’ve had tough projects before—tight deadlines, long hours, travel, whatever—briefly mentioning that helps. Even better if you explain how you stayed sharp or what kept you going. That adds credibility.

The goal here isn’t to prove you’re a machine. It’s to show you’re grounded, prepared, and have the right mindset to handle the demands without burning out or complaining.

Yes, I am ready