Hi all!
I work in CRE and have been heavily interviewing for Senior analyst/associate positions. I have done my fair share of case studies/excel modeling tests during these interviews but I just had one come up where they are asking for materials (Excel model, PowerPoint, etc.) for a past project I have worked on to have a follow-up discussion about them. I don't mind walking them through and discussing a deal but I am worried I cannot provide them with actual materials for confidentiality reasons as everything is the property of my former employer. Has anyone run into this and if so, how did you handle it? I am worried about ruining my chances if I can't provide anything.
When faced with a request for past project materials during an interview, confidentiality is a critical concern. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s how you can handle this situation effectively:
Explain Confidentiality Constraints: Be upfront about the fact that you cannot share actual materials due to confidentiality agreements with your former employer. This is a common and respected practice in the industry.
Example Response:
"I’d love to walk you through the details of the project and my contributions, but due to confidentiality agreements, I’m unable to share the actual materials. However, I can recreate a similar model or presentation based on publicly available data to demonstrate my skills and approach."
Offer to Recreate a Similar Example: Suggest creating a mock version of the project using publicly available data or hypothetical scenarios. This shows initiative and a willingness to provide insight into your work without breaching confidentiality.
Focus on Your Role and Impact: During the discussion, emphasize your specific contributions, the challenges you faced, and the results you achieved. Use this as an opportunity to highlight your problem-solving skills and technical expertise.
Prepare a Generic Case Study: If you anticipate such requests in future interviews, consider preparing a generic case study or model in advance. This can be based on publicly available information and structured to showcase your skills without revealing proprietary details.
Leverage Templates: Utilize resources like the WSO financial modeling templates or stock pitch templates to create polished examples of your work. These can serve as a professional way to demonstrate your capabilities.
By addressing the request professionally and offering alternatives, you can maintain your integrity while still showcasing your expertise.
Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/job-search/suing-a-former-employer?customgpt=1, Interviewing for a SA or Analyst position? Here's what I'd want to hear as a VP., How to talk around confidential info in deal discussions?, Strategy& Ex Employee - Q&A, Suing a former employer
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