Standing out as a new grad applying for analyst roles
Just finished an MSRE program after a premed undergrad. I've been applying for acquisitions/investment analyst roles with owner/investors and haven't had any luck. I've been through three interviews and final rounds (modeling tests, superdays, etc.) but lost out to candidates with 1-3 years of work experience. I understand why companies prefer experienced hires, but it's still frustrating.
For those involved in hiring, what would make you choose a new grad over someone with say 2-3 years of capital markets experience? Any tips on how to stand out? I have an interview at a P/E firm and expect to compete against more experienced candidates. Any advice is appreciated!
Also have had ~13 months of internship experience in acquisitions/brokerage if that helps give context.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some tips to help you stand out as a new grad applying for analyst roles, especially when competing against more experienced candidates:
Highlight Relevant Internship Experience:
Showcase Your MSRE Program:
Demonstrate Your Analytical Skills:
Leverage Your Unique Background:
Network and Build Relationships:
Prepare for Behavioral Interviews:
Show Adaptability and Willingness to Learn:
Tailor Your Application:
Seek Feedback:
Professional Certifications:
By focusing on these areas, you can better position yourself as a strong candidate despite the competition from more experienced professionals. Good luck with your interview at the P/E firm!
Sources: Q&A: Emerging markets investment analyst, Q&A: 3rd Year Hedge Fund Analyst, Advice On a Career, Miserable in consulting, how to improve situation?, Q&A: Quant Research Analyst at Startup Fund
Difficult when competing with kids with more experience. What I can say is know a bit about some of the acquisitions the company has done in the last 12 months. Maybe pick 1-2 of them and can ask questions about that specific submarket. See if you can find anything they’ve recently disposed of. Basically specific deals the company has worked on. Can also ask about their fund structure and strategy. Try to connect with your interviewers on a more personal level as well, sports, recent local news, do some research on them beforehand if you can, etc.
Great advice thanks.
Which program did you graduate from? Are you leveraging your alumni network to get a leg up in the hiring process?
NYC based program. And yes, I've been trying to utilize the alumni network but haven't had much luck. Have had a few introductions facilitated by family friends so hoping something comes of them. Had one family friend apart of the hiring process at a firm and they decided to just hire an associate rather than an analyst.
Can’t think of any reason to hire a new grad over someone with 1-3 years of capital markets experience. Maybe target companies with more structured rotational programs. Unless you have an inside look through a friend/networking, you’ll be much more successful going after credit analyst roles at banks/debt funds or brokerage roles, doing your 2 years, then trying for principal roles again. Tough market right now to break into, even with a few years of experience.
Totally agree with you. Thinking I will probably go after more capital markets type roles soon. Tough market for sure.
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