Call with the staffer? - Group Placement

Realize this reply is long af but hopefully helpful; staffer calls are just like other placement networking calls but with higher stakes.

Essentially, the staffer is not the one who will really decide if you get into the group (usually the analysts opinions matter more), but a bad call can really hurt your chances. I got cut from a group when I did my placements due to a really stupid reason with a douche staffer, which I’m ultimately very glad I didn’t end up in that group. I have seen (as someone involved in SA placements super recently) that when our staffer really liked someone, they gave approval for us to extend an offer early/lock down a candidate. And candidates who had “okay” calls had to compete for the other spots.

So make sure you are well rested/on point (don’t be hungover or some shit) and be ready like 10 min early with your notes and AirPods charged, etc. Act like it’s an interview and make sure you’re fully prepared going in.

Regarding the conversation, it will be the same as other convos - small talk, you do the quick “tell me about yourself,” then you ask for theirs, and then you ask them questions.

Keep your “walk me through your resume” CONCISE. Some kids ramble on for several minutes/about shit that doesn’t matter, and a banker stops listening after 30 seconds/a minute. If they want to learn more they will ask a follow up question.

Ask them good questions and don’t ask them stupid things. You’ve already spoken with a bunch of people so you shouldn’t be asking about the culture or random generic questions that you should already know. Ask questions for their level/background like “why did you stay on Analyst to VP” or “what do you think makes a good analyst as a staffer” or “how does the staffing model in the group work.” You can ask industry questions but make sure they are genuine/you’re not just regurgitating some bullshit you read on Google. DON’T ask about bonuses/hours/PE recruting (stuff you might be able to ask an analyst) - asking this would be a huge red flag and you can ask more junior people who are chiller.

Also last thing but arguably most important - they will probably ask you (or you should offer it up during your “tell me about yourself” answer) “why this group/industry.” Make sure you have a good, well thought out reason, backed up by points you’ve picked up on in your prior calls. For example: “I really like the culture, which I heard about from X Y and Z conversations, and the deal experience I’ve heard you can get through my different calls.” Demonstrate that you are genuinely interested in the group and show off what you have learned, while also being eager and genuine.