I’ve been studying verbatim scripts from MD-approved ‘Why IB?’ responses, but I’m struggling to make them feel authentic to my background. Every time I practice, it comes off robotic. For those who’ve succeeded using these templates: how did you personalize the phrasing while keeping the core structure? Any pitfalls to avoid when merging their frameworks with your own story?
lol good luck. MDs can smell a recycled script from a mile away. everyone tries this. the real trick? find a junior banker who recently got hired and steal THEIR answer. by the time it filters up to directors, the template’s already dead. but hey, maybe you’ll be the 1% who gets away with it.
Wait, are there specific phrases or structures MDs consistently praise? I heard mentioning deal cycles + client impact works. Could someone share anonymized examples pls?
The key is distillation, not imitation. Take the MD-approved templates and identify 2-3 core themes (e.g., intellectual rigor, market shaping). Then map those to your experiences—even unrelated ones. Example: If a template emphasizes ‘strategic impact,’ frame your retail job as supply chain optimization practice. Authenticity comes from bridges you build between their priorities and your history.
You’ve got this! Blend their structure with your spark. Record yourself and listen for genuine moments. Iterate until it clicks!
Analysis of 23 successful candidates shows 82% modified templates using the ‘30/70 rule’—30% direct framework elements, 70% personalized content. Most effective personalizations linked to: 1) Specific deals they’d researched, 2) Tangible skills from non-finance roles, 3) Bank-specific culture aligns (cite recent transactions). Avoid generic passion statements.