Advice for My Non-Target Resume to Break Into IB (London)

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some detailed steps and advice to improve your resume and chances of breaking into Investment Banking (IB) from a non-target university, especially as an international student:

Resume Tips:

1. Highlight Relevant Experience:

   • Internships: Even if they are not directly related to IB, any finance-related internships should be prominently displayed.
   • Leadership Roles: Include any leadership positions in clubs or organizations, especially finance or business-related ones.
   • Projects: Showcase any significant projects, especially those involving financial modeling, analysis, or research.

2. Academic Excellence:

   • GPA: Ensure your GPA is prominently displayed if it is strong (e.g., 3.8+).
   • Relevant Coursework: List any finance, economics, or business courses that are relevant to IB.

3. Skills:

   • Technical Skills: Highlight proficiency in Excel, financial modeling, and any other relevant software.
   • Languages: If you are multilingual, this can be a significant advantage in London.

4. Professional Formatting:

   • Use a clean, professional format. Templates from WSO can be very helpful.

Networking Tips:

1. Leverage Alumni Networks:

   • Reach out to alumni from your university who are working in IB. They can provide insights and potentially refer you.

2. Cold Emailing:

   • Use WSO search to find contacts at various IB firms. Personalize your emails and be persistent.

3. Attend Events:

   • Participate in finance-related events, webinars, and networking sessions. This can help you make valuable connections.

4. LinkedIn:

   • Keep your LinkedIn profile updated and professional. Connect with professionals in the industry and engage with their content.

Additional Steps:

1. Online Courses:

   • Take online courses to improve your financial modeling and technical skills. Mention these on your resume.

2. Mock Interviews:

   • Practice with mock interviews to improve your performance. Use resources like WSO's interview guides.

3. Stay Informed:

   • Keep up with the latest trends and news in the finance industry. This will help you in interviews and networking conversations.

Resources:

• WSO Guides: Utilize the various guides and resources available on Wall Street Oasis, such as the Non-Target Recruiting Guide and interview question banks.

By following these steps and leveraging the resources available on WSO, you can significantly improve your chances of breaking into IB from a non-target university. Stay persistent and keep refining your approach based on feedback and new information.

Sources: Non-Target to MM IB: My Advice, Non-Target Recruiting Guide Part I: Resume and Networking, How I Broke Into Goldman IBD From a Non-Target, New girl from non-target school considering IB - how to break into the boy's club?, How to get into Investment Banking from complete non-target