How to "play" this off...

Let’s say you have an interview somewhere as an experienced hire (whether it be a PE, HF or lateral ib interview), and the group you’re interviewing with (actually, the entire firm) covers one particular industry in which you have no experience. In the job posting, they mention they prefer someone with experience in the industry, but let’s say you get an interview nonetheless.

How do you play this off in the interview?

Do you try to play up your most applicable experience, or should you go into it saying “I haven’t experienced this yet, but here’s why I’m interested, and here’s why I think I’d be good, etc.”

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

3 Comments
 

if you have no experience in x industry, don't try and pretend you do.

but interest and willingness to learn in that particular industry is key. that's what you have to convey strongly in the interview.

do your best to present yourself with the experiences you do have.

no matter how you spin it, you won't beat an experienced hire with experience in that industry. just be honest if they ask u directly.

========================================= We are excited to formally extend to you an offer to join Bank of Ameria
 

Agree with above.

Happened to me several times, just try to connect the two industries (if there are connections) and demonstrate that even though you have not been working in this particular sector:

  1. You have the knowledge required to valuate a business
  2. You are following this sector because you have an interest in it
  3. You are a fast learner/ and you wouldn't mind working on a new sector

Best of luck.

 

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