Seriously Underpepped for upcoming SA role.
Long story short - I feel like I completely memorized and BSed my way through the interview process. I am going to be at a BB, and feel like I know NOTHING. (I know BASIC excel short cuts, a FEW PPT short cuts). I don't care that much about finance. I just don't want to look like an idiot out there and I want the return offer, but I have no idea what im doing compared to my peers.
The typical advice: Be Likeable, work hard, be friendly, have a smile etc., I am not worried about. I can do that. WHAT ELSE is a non negotiable to know how to do? I feel like I am about to get exposed so badly.
There’s plenty of threads on this. Just over communicate and pdf your work so you can review it. Thats kinda all you need to do: good comms and good work.
Thanks - can you give a tangible example of the overcommunication aspect? Again I hear this but what does it look like in practice, without being annoying to anyone.
To avoid feeling exposed and to secure that return offer, here’s what you need to focus on based on the most helpful WSO content:
1. Start Small and Build Confidence
2. Excel and PowerPoint Proficiency
3. Technical Knowledge
4. Be Proactive and Curious
5. Practice Mental Math and Brainteasers
6. Networking Within the Firm
7. Stay Optimistic and Resilient
By focusing on these areas, you’ll not only avoid looking unprepared but also position yourself as a reliable and coachable team member. Remember, most interns feel overwhelmed at first—it’s how you adapt and grow that counts.
Sources: Preparing for an IB internship, An ex-Goldman Sachs insider’s 10 tips on how to sail through investment banking interviews, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/job-search/my-2-cents-on-sa-recruiting-from-a-non-target-background?customgpt=1, skills needed to prepare for SA BB vs. SA EB, What to expect/how to excel in a SA IB internship
Hey man, you aren’t behind. You will get training and people don’t expect you to know a lot. With that being said, you need to make sure you pick things up quickly. Ask good questions and genuinely write things down on your notebook. I am serious, create a section for PPT shortcuts, excel shortcuts, email shortcuts, other best practices, etc. Try not to make the same mistake twice and be proactive. If you can’t figure smth out, tell your analyst/asso “Hi, I am not sure how to do this and I am approaching it in X way, am I directionally correct or do you recommend something else?” Put your best foot forward and trust that you will pick up on things. Good luck!
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