Specific SA Interview Question

I have first round interviews coming up with an elite boutique and a mm firm. What would be the best way to answer “what other banks are you interviewing with” for each bank? I know you're suppose to say that you're interviewing with other similar banks; however, I only have these two interviews and all of the other banks have already selected candidates that they want to interview so I can’t really say “other mm banks (or elite boutiques)” cause I don't want to lie. The elite boutique and mm firm are two very different banks – in terms of culture, prestige/reputation, deal flow and exit opportunities so I don't want to convey the message that I just applied everywhere (even though I did).

Thanks.

4 Comments
 

Absolutely DO NOT listen to the above advice. Mention a few of the banks you have applied to that have some sort of comparability to the bank you're interviewing with, but don't list off a ton or say that you've applied everywhere.

Socal & Saber- They also know that "getting too focused on small details sometimes and having to remember to step back and look at the big picture" isn't honestly your greatest weakness, but if you tell them that it's a tie between hookers and blow you're not going to land the gig.

 

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