Interviewing with a different sector VP for lateral - is this normal?
Hi,
I'm currently an Analyst 1 looking to lateral to a larger platform. I recently applied to a mid-market firm, submitting applications for two roles: one based in New York and another tech-focused position in a non-NY office (as shown on my candidate homepage).
However, I was invited to interview with a senior banker from a different group within the same non-NY office. Is this typical? I had assumed lateral interviews would be more group-specific, so I'm a bit confused about why I'm interviewing with someone from a different group than the ones I applied to, and whether I'm being considered for a generalist / different sector role (which warrants changing my "Why this group" question).
I am still open and interested in both group, but I want to make sure I’m navigating this correctly—I don’t want it to come across like I’m unclear about what I want or applying inconsistently across roles.
Thanks so much!
It's not uncommon for lateral interviews to involve senior bankers from different groups, especially at mid-market firms or smaller offices. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are a few reasons why this might happen and how to navigate it:
Resource Constraints in Smaller Offices: Non-NY offices or smaller platforms may not have enough senior bankers in each group to handle all interviews. As a result, they might involve senior bankers from other groups to assess candidates.
Generalist Hiring Approach: Some firms, particularly in smaller offices, may hire laterals as generalists rather than for a specific group. This could explain why you're interviewing with someone outside the group you applied to. It’s worth clarifying during the interview if the role is group-specific or generalist.
Cross-Group Collaboration: Even if the role is group-specific, firms often value input from senior bankers across groups to ensure a good cultural fit and assess your overall potential.
How to Navigate This:
Adapt Your "Why This Group" Answer: While you should still tailor your response to the group you applied for, be prepared to discuss your broader interest in the firm and how your skills can add value across different sectors. This shows flexibility and a willingness to contribute wherever needed.
Clarify the Role: Politely ask during the interview if the position is specific to the group you applied for or if it’s a generalist role. For example, you could say: "I noticed this interview is with a senior banker from a different group. I’d love to understand if this role is specific to [Group A] or if there’s a broader generalist opportunity within the office."
Stay Consistent: Emphasize your interest in the firm and both groups you applied to. Avoid sounding indecisive by framing your interest as being open to opportunities where you can make the most impact.
Prepare for Fit and Deal Experience Questions: Lateral interviews often focus on your deal experience and fit rather than technicals. Be ready to discuss your past deals in detail and how they align with the firm's focus.
By showing flexibility, curiosity, and a clear understanding of your value, you’ll position yourself as a strong candidate regardless of the group dynamics. Good luck!
Sources: Guide to Lateraling in 2021, Questions Around Internal Mobility & Lateraling Groups, Lateraling Guide for Investment Banking, Guide to Lateraling in 2021, An ex-Goldman Sachs insider’s 10 tips on how to sail through investment banking interviews
We do this quite frequently; think of it as a fresh set of eyes or a second opinion from somebody the group trusts. Would only think its weird if the senior tried to poach you for his own group. Good luck!
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