Seeing "Simulated Deal Experience" on resumes... is this a thing now?
I was stalking some profiles of students who landed offers at EBs this cycle, and I noticed a pattern. A few of them listed 'Deal Simulation' under their experience section.
I always thought you needed a legit boutique internship to have deal talking points, but it seems like these students are using these simulations to fill that gap.
Is this actually respected by interviewers? I have zero relevant finance experience, so if I can actually talk about a simulated deal without looking like a poser, that would be a game changer.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, simulated deal experience is becoming a more common addition to resumes, especially for students who lack traditional finance internships. These simulations can indeed help bridge the gap for candidates without direct deal experience, as long as they are presented and discussed effectively.
Here’s what you need to know:
Respect from Interviewers: While simulated deal experience isn't equivalent to real-world deal experience, it can still be respected if you can demonstrate that you gained valuable skills and insights. The key is to articulate what you learned—whether it’s financial modeling, valuation techniques, or understanding deal processes—and how you applied those skills in the simulation.
How to Present It: When listing a simulated deal on your resume, be specific about your role and contributions. For example, mention tasks like building a DCF model, conducting market research, or preparing a pitch deck. This shows that you treated the simulation seriously and gained practical knowledge.
Talking Points in Interviews: Be prepared to discuss the simulation in detail during interviews. Highlight the challenges you faced, how you approached them, and the outcomes. This will help you avoid looking like a "poser" and instead come across as someone who proactively sought to develop relevant skills.
Supplementing with Other Experiences: If possible, combine simulated deal experience with other finance-related activities, such as case competitions, relevant coursework, or certifications (e.g., WSO Elite Modeling Package). This will further strengthen your profile and show a well-rounded commitment to the field.
In summary, simulated deal experience can be a game changer if you lack traditional internships, but it’s crucial to present it authentically and back it up with solid talking points.
Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/real-estate/walk-me-through-a-deal-you-worked-on-interview-question?customgpt=1, Superday Advice From a Tired Interviewer, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/consulting/thoughts-and-impressions-on-the-other-side-of-an-undergrad-mbb-recruiting-event?customgpt=1, Deal Experience Question: Never Answered
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