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Preparing for the Finance Interview

Strictly Private and Confidential. Preparing for the Finance Interview. April 12, 2014. Key to Getting a Job in Finance:. Know What You are Getting Yourself Into. Steve Briggs, Kelso & Company Adam Bordner , Citigroup Global Markets. Know the Industry and the Job. Landing a Job.

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Preparing for the Finance Interview

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  1. Strictly Private and Confidential Preparing for the Finance Interview April 12, 2014

  2. Key to Getting a Job in Finance: Know What You are Getting Yourself Into Steve Briggs, Kelso & Company Adam Bordner, Citigroup Global Markets

  3. Know the Industry and the Job

  4. Landing a Job

  5. Recruiting

  6. Getting a Job • Do well in school; maintain a solid GPA • Be active in organizations—leadership roles are crucial • Be productive during the summers (e.g., internships, go abroad) • Familiarize yourself with the industry and the job • Customize resume to reflect the required skill set • Practice interviews • Leverage your resources (e.g., alumni, career services, books, Internet) • Be aggressive—jobs are competitive • Network!

  7. Financial services firms want hard working, motivated individuals with a great attitude. Know What Firms Are Looking For • Intelligence • Drive and ambition • Communications skills • Quantitative ability • Technical aptitude • Leadership ability • Understanding the role Qualities firms seek… …as well as… • Risk-taker • Obsessive curiosity • Open-minded • Creative, iconoclastic • Diversity • Immediate contributors • Sense of humor

  8. Master the Mechanics: The Resume • Highlight your accomplishments • Keep it to one page • Be clear and succinct • Always use layman’s terms • Be able to “tell a story” for every line in your resume • Do not lie or exaggerate • Use an easy to read format • Absolutely no spelling and formatting errors • Avoid gimmicks (e.g., logos) • Include GPA

  9. Recruiting “Do”s General Tips: • DO go to information sessions • DO e-mail any connections with questions—we want to help you • DO proofread and have others proofread your resume • DO put effort into your cover letter—show you know the firm and the position you’re applying for • DO complete the online application • DO submit it as early as possible before the deadline • DO your research on the firm, role and industry!

  10. Recruiting “Do”s Resume Rules: • DO include your mobile number • DO present your accomplishments accurately • DO pay attention to formatting, spelling and grammar • DO include your GPA, test scores & relevant courses • DO keep it to ONE page—be concise • DO also be specific: include dates/amounts wherever possible • DO be able to talk about every item

  11. Recruiting “Don’t”s • DON’T lie on your resume—employers will find out • DON’T write generic cover letters—keep us awake • DON’T be sloppy – presentation is crucial • DON’T pad your resume with obsolete items • DON’T submit your application at 11:59PM • DON’T forget to include both dorm and cell phone numbers • DON’T forget about the online application

  12. The Recruiting Process—Indicative Timeline Since Marquette is a non-target school on the Street, it takes that much more work to get noticed. This is an indicative timeline only, and remains subject to change based on firm and business function. Bottom line: you should always be prepared! May – September September – November December January – February

  13. Format and Process Entry-Level Interview Process Interview Format • Introductory remarks and get to know you (resume review) • Why did you choose your school? • Why this business? Why this Firm? • What is the role of an analyst? • Technical Questions • Wrap Up and Q&A Interview Process Round 1 • In-person / phone interview • Usually one to two 30 minute competency based interviews • Focus typically on “fit” Round 2 • Super Day at the Firm • Usually four to five 30 minute competency based interviews • Focus on both technical and management / leadership skills Note: This is a very general outline, and remains subject to change based on Firm and business function.

  14. Master the Mechanics: The Interview The Best Interviews Are Those You Guide… • Know your story • Specific accomplishments, examples of your strengths • Why you are what banks want • Be prompt • Dress appropriately • Be polite to everyone • Maintain good eye contact • Show confidence • Use good posture • Be composed, confident and articulate • Show enthusiasm without being hyperactive • Ask questions to show your interest • Try to match your interviewer’s style and tone • Be prepared for brainteasers

  15. Interview Process “Do”s • DO “dress to impress”—you will need a suit for client meetings • DO be polite • DO answer every question thoughtfully • DO practice answering questions with a friend beforehand • DO bring copies of your resume and cover letter to the interview • DO know exactly what your interviewer is looking for and present yourself accordingly • DO keep upbeat even if the interview is going badly, at least it shows good character • DO show enthusiasm for every item on your resume • DO review your accounting/finance if you have had any • DO have a conversation!

  16. Interview Process “Do”s • DO go over each item on your resume beforehand and have a succinct description ready for why it is relevant to that interview • DO know the difference between the various companies you are interviewing with • DO show that you have researched the firm you are interviewing with (i.e., CEO, revenue drivers, etc.) • DO show that you have researched the industry you are applying to • DO plan to show up at least 15 minutes early—if anything goes wrong at least you will still be on time • DO read the Wall Street Journal or other trade magazine to keep up-to-date on important news—it makes people happy to know you’ve read about their deals • DO have questions ready for your interviewer • DO thank your interviewer at the end of the interview • DO send out “Thank You” e-mails • DO remember everyone you meet during the interview process

  17. Interview Process “Don’t”s • DON’T bring the wrong cover letter to your interview—attention to detail is critical • DON’T pretend like you know more than you do • DON’T talk the entire time—try to engage your interviewer • DON’T use profanity when relating a story

  18. Structure and Assessment of the Interview Interview Assessments • Personality/Qualifications • Ability to handle pressure • Communication skills • Industry commitment—Why Investment Banking? • Must be concise and compelling; must have own story • Understand the Industry • Understand bank differentiation • Technical—Finance/Accounting • Explain interaction of all of the financial statements • How do you value a company? • What is free cash flow? • Q&A Session—critical final moments • Don’t ask a canned question

  19. Preparation is the Key Preparation Is The Key To Success Know the Industry Know the Job Know What Banks Want Know Your Story PracticeYourStory Master the Mechanics Distinguish Yourself

  20. What Banks Want YourExperiences Specific AccomplishmentsExamples of Your Strengths Why You AreWhat BanksWant Know Your Story

  21. Dressing for a Finance Interview Men’s Apparel Joel Grebenick, Stone Arch Capital Women’s Apparel Elizabeth Buckton, Aon Hewitt Ennis Knupp Jillian Morrissey, Wells Capital

  22. Men’s Attire: Overview Assume Business Professional Attire for Interviews “The first impression is the lasting impression” Feel comfortable and appear confident when dressed appropriately Bottom Line: You want to convey a professional image Conservatism is Key Banks maintain a more traditional culture than main street; respect this when selecting an interview outfit Avoid fashion-forward trends Invest in Quality Think “cost-per-wear” You will need to build a business wardrobe at some point Don’t take your style advice from Gordon Gekko…

  23. Suiting Up 2-Piece Navy or Dark Charcoal Suit Solid color or light pinstripe pattern Constructed of worsted wool or other natural fiber Cotton and tropical blends are not appropriate Synthetic fabrics wrinkle easily Black is NOT suitable for men in an interview Single Breasted, Notched-Lapel Jacket 6-button jackets are for basketball players Traditional suit coat has 2 or 3 buttons and center or side vents Remember, when wearing a 3-button jacket: Sometimesfastenthe top button Alwaysbutton the middle one Neverfasten the bottom button (or all 3!) Flat-Front or Pleated Trousers Cuffs may be appropriate depending on your height Ensure Proper Fit by Visiting the Tailor Jacket must cover your seat Sleeves should hit at the hinge of your wrist Suit hugs your natural shoulders, does not protrude or constrict No more than a ‘fist’ of room between chest and buttoned jacket

  24. Other Basics White or Light Blue Dress Shirt Plain broadcloth, long-sleeve shirt White is most conservative While traditional, oxford shirts are too casual 1 button barrel cuff (avoid French cuffs, please) Point spread collar allows room for a knotted tie Button-down collars are for sport coats, NOT suits ¼ - ½ inch of shirt sleeve should be visible beyond jacket sleeve Repp or Conservatively Patterned Tie 100% silk Bottom notch of tie should hit top of belt buckle Color(s) should complement your suit and shirt Avoid: Knits, the color red Slim Leather Belt is Appropriate Color of your belt MUST match color of your shoe

  25. Dressing the Part Black Leather Dress Shoes Cap or plain-toe balmoral Avoid square-toed shoes, loafers and drivers Make use of shoe horns, trees and rubbers Hosiery Should Complement One’s Outfit If wearing black shoes, black socks are required White athletic socks are NOT appropriate Consider Wearing a Wrist Watch Conveys schedule-oriented, serious image Watch bands should have leather or metal bands Avoid oversized faces and rubber straps Under NO circumstances should your watch make noise during an interview Quality shoes will last at least 15 years… Spend accordingly

  26. Women’s Attire: Overview Solid Suit in Black or Navy 2- or 3-button jacket Skirt suit is more traditional Pant suits are widely accepted Skirt should fall at, or slightly above your knee Pants must be hemmed as to not touch the floor Conservative Dress Blouse Color should complement your suit and natural skin tone White, light blue and pastel pink are good options A properly fitting blouse does NOT gap between buttons Collar should lay properly under jacket lapel May choose to unbutton the top two buttons

  27. Putting it All Together Black Patent or Brown Leather Shoes Limit heel height to 2 inches Make sure to have shoes shined and buffed Keep Jewelry Minimal, Classic Pearl or silver ball necklace are a good choice Only one set of earrings Wedding and engagement rings are always acceptable Natural or Light Colored Hosiery Look for runs prior to arriving on site For static cling, wear a slip underneath your skirt Hosiery is recommended for more conservative firms Keep Make-Up Sparse Limit make-up to your natural colors Avoid colors that look too severe

  28. Attire “Do’s” DO polish and shine shoes prior to the interview DO limit the amount of jewelry you wear DO carry a portfolio to hold copies of your resume DO get a haircut or trim, and style conservatively DO have a quality pen and notepad handy DO get a manicure DO consult with someone at the firm about corporate dress guidelines DO dress for the job you want; not the job you have

  29. Attire “Don’ts” DON’T wear an excessive amount of perfume or cologne DON’T underestimate the importance of details DON’T forget an umbrella if there is a chance of inclement weather DON’T out dress your interviewer DON’T wear jewelry that will distract you or your interviewer DON’T forget to iron your clothes

  30. The Importance of the Purse Make sure that your purse is clean inside and out You do not what any dirt in your purse to spill onto your resumes Think microfiber and leather, as canvas bags may be too casual for a formal interview Match the color of your bag with your interview attire The purse should be big enough to carry your portfolio Focus on a functional bag with these interview essentials: Make-up Umbrella Lint roller Tissues Your phone (on silent!)

  31. You landed the job! Now what do you wear? Cooler weather: sweater sets, dress pants and skirts with tights • Get a feel for the fashion in the company • Are open toes, bare shoulders or exposed ankles allowed? • Warmer weather: • pencil skirts, • cigarette pants and • blazers

  32. Internship 101 – The Modern Hunger Games Varun Varma, Grosvenor Capital Ryan Bailey, AIM Class of 2014

  33. Hunger Games Your internship will involve: • High stress • Politics • Tough decisions • Prioritizing • Realizing how little you really know But you will: • Get to know students from other schools • Meet some of the world’s smartest people • Learn what you like in finance • Be better prepared for your career • Hopefully (fingers crossed) get a full-time offer

  34. Over Your 10 Weeks Events During Your Internship Training Week Networking/Social Events Community Service Days 4th of July Weekend (Friday) Midterm Reviews Ask for Feedback Opportunity For Improvement Presentations/Projects Last 3 Weeks – Crunch Time Last Week Social Events Presentations Offer Day • Preparation • Talk to alumni/seniors, know your area • Read books about your area of finance • Organize your closet & work wear • Get pre-screenings done – security and drug tests • Prepare information on: • Your trading accounts • Your bank account • Your taxes • Read about the market • Determine housing and transportation • W2 Forms and Identification for First Day • Weekends • Priorities • Get sleep • Work on projects • Go out & have fun • This is 10 weeks that will determine the rest of your life! What’s most important? • Discover the city you are in – you might be living there in a year’s time

  35. 14 Rules To Leave An Impression Personal Organization – It Starts Day 1 • Plan ahead for your project (set weekly deadlines) and START EARLY. • Write down what you did every single day, no matter how small. • Especially keep track of people you spoke to. • Keep on top of your emails, meetings and due dates. Always send replies and follow up. • Prioritize and ask for specific deadlines – then try to beat them (Under-promise, Over-deliver). • If you have online training courses, GET THEM DONE and take notes (see 2). Communication – Make A Personal Connection • Talk to people, have interesting conversations, LISTEN, and target people who make important decisions (like who gets an offer). • Research the people you are going to meet with and prepare a list of questions. • Go to EVERY social event and speak to the important people (see 6) – let them know you came. • Get to know your roommates, and other interns too. • Make sure that your boss gets to know you (see 6)– try to speak to him/her as often as possible. • Take notes and record ideas, you are around some of the world’s smartest people. • If you have ideas for the internship program or the business, share them. • You aren’t being paid to be silent, and you have a different perspective.

  36. 14 Rules To Leave An Impression Behavioral – Opinions Matter • Take care of your health – it’s a busy, packed 10 weeks and you need to be in the best mental capacity. • Work out when you have time. • Take multivitamins. • Get sleep when you can. • Eat healthy food, keep water at your desk. • Know where to get cheap coffee/tea. • You have access to the greatest resources of your investing life – set aside time each day to read. • Best when everyone else has left the office, or before they come in. • Be the first one in on your team, and last one out of the office. • Dress well & conservatively, respect your clothing and make sure its ironed. • Think politically, don’t badmouth others, and understand peoples’ goals and incentives. • Make your immediate superior’s life easier • Ask if there are tasks that you can take off someone else’s hands • Save your income and invest after your internship. • Disclose/ask about your current trading platforms and portfolios. • DO NOT TRADE OVER THE SUMMER.

  37. Mock Interviews Telephone Tom Molosky, JP Morgan Private Bank Kyle Zabel, Cascade Investments Katherine Curiel, Wells Capital In Person Mary Kowarick, Mannheim Nick Hartnell, PNC Financial Services Dan Leibforth, Citi Private Bank

  38. Summary Be certain to tell your story during the interview • Know yourself In advance think about what are your unique traits. Know what you want the interviewers to remember about you. • Set the stage Do your homework (i.e. know about the company you are interviewing with - and understand the position qualifications and desired traits they are seeking). Help them see how are you the right fit for the position. • Provide information to make your case Point out items on your resume that support your candidacy. Tell a pertinent short story about you overcame adversity or learned a new skill – give them something to remember you by. • Let them know how you work well with others Be sure to have an example of how you helped a group overcome adversity or challenge – they want good teammates and leaders. • Make certain they know you want the position You need to have a tight, well thought-out close to the interview. Have a short summary and tell them that you want the position.

  39. Q&A

  40. Conclusion Dr. David Krause, AIM Director Rev. Ronald Bieganowski S.J. Steve Briggs, Kelso & Company

  41. Thank you for attending the Ins and Outs of Wall Street, we trust this day was beneficial to you.A very special thank you to our Marquette Alumni for sharing their time and talents! Casual Networking Opportunity for students and alumni presenters to follow from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

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