IB Finance Analyst

This was an internal interview; CS HR really does has their stuff together considering the desks do the interviewing. I had a preliminary screening interview from an "experienced recruiter" who grilled me on my intentions for applying to the role, what characteristics I could bring to the group, my knowledge of the business and of the group as well as my current employment situation. As mentioned, HR does everything, from planning on the location, alerting you to the people you would meet and the follow-up on their end. Since some member of the group were in another state, phone interviews were just like any normal interview, some are conducted via video conference. Ultimately, the desk is responsible for extending the offer to you, however if you don't get the offer HR will alert you and can provide feedback as to why the group felt you weren't right for the spot.

In terms of advice, you really need to know your stuff--which has been said numerous times. Most of the people interviewing can smell BS a mile away. It is important to make sure you get all the boxes checked, but show how passionate you are, by mentioning what publications you read, why this job is important to you, and be honest. Make sure you communicate to the interviewer and show them your personality, because they will want to know who they are sitting next to in the trenches.

As for culture, company culture is strong (not like GS, but it is noticeable once you sit in front of someone). How important it is to there interviewer depends on the person and the questions they ask. You should be aware of the strategy of the firm in terms of how they view clients, since most will ask how you would handle situations.