OK to ask?

Depends on the bank..if your offer will be group specific and you are meeting with somebody from M&A, bring it up...but have a solid reason why. Everybody says they want to work in M&A.

You need to do your homework and figure out how hiring at _______ Bank works. Telling a lev fin guy how much you want to be in M&A could end up backfiring if M&A doesn't like you and lev fin does..but ends not making an offer because they don't think you are interested.

On the same token, if asked, have a good idea where you want to be. just dont force it.

Thanks.. that really helped..

What no love for origination?

I wouldn't, until I had an offer, then I'd say my preference for <abbr title="mergers and acquisitions

Disclaimer: The post above has been made by someone who is not currently employed in IBD, and has not had an interview yet...

Thanks all. One more thing. Typically, we get to meet, say four bankers and they are all in different groups of investment banking? I am interviewing with the ibanking department. Is it ok to ask for details of the people interviewing me from the recruiter? I cant seem to get around a best way to approach this whole issue. I guess I will keep my mouth shut about preferences and talk only when asked and be ready with strong fundamental reasons to work in certain product groups.

the interviewers will likely introduce themselves and tell you what groups they work in.

i agree with aspmonkey...don't say anything about what group you prefer unless you have relevant experience in that field (i.e. you interned at a telecom company the year before and so you want to work in the telecom group). even in this circumstance, i would be careful on how you approach the situation.

best bet is to get the offer and then talk your way into your preferred group.

I think it is certainly appropriate. Your candidacy does improve two-fold; it shows that you want to take the initiative to research/study interview proctor backgrounds and formulate concise and appropriate questions related to their experience, specific skill-sets developed and the like, etc.

If in fact the recruiter does become inquisitive as to why you may want background information (some firms are sensitive to making this voluntarily public) just be prepared to talk about how you simply want to align tentative questions to a specific proctor (perhaps have an example ready).

Usually they will start the day with an interview schedule (including names, groups).

Are you a banker Hank Paulson, or do you simply spread a bunch of hearsay around on this board?

I'd agree with what's been said beforehand. I've been very successful being upfront with the groups I want to work in and why. You'll need to do your homework - recent deals, and ideally, chat with analysts who work in the groups to understand the work dynamics and group culture. Always tie your group selections back to your resume. If you can't do that, then you'd be better off not being specific. Also, if you feel confident that you are a storng candidate - lots of interviews already lined up with BBs - then you can be more specific with what you want, without incurring significant costs (assuming you are a good interviewer).

Sounds great....