help please for ER interview

Happy New Year! Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some key tips to prepare for your Equity Research (ER) interviews and boost your chances:

1. Prepare a Strong Writing Sample

• ER roles value writing skills immensely. If you have a published piece (academic journal, school newspaper, or even a personal blog), include it. If not, consider drafting a mock ER report on a company or sector you're passionate about. Make it detailed, well-organized, and insightful.

2. Build a Financial Model

• Create a comprehensive financial model, even if it’s not perfect. The effort and thought process behind it matter more than accuracy. Ensure it’s well-structured and demonstrates your ability to think critically about financial data.

3. Research and Read Extensively

• Dive into resources like The Intelligent Investor, Valuation by McKinsey, and shareholder letters. Familiarize yourself with 10-Ks, research reports, and financial news (e.g., WSJ, Barron’s). This will help you stay informed and ready to discuss market trends or specific companies.

4. Practice Stock Pitches

• Be ready to pitch a stock during your interview. Focus on a company you understand well, and structure your pitch around its business model, valuation, and growth potential. Practice with peers or mentors to refine your delivery.

5. Network Strategically

• Reach out to alumni or professionals in ER through LinkedIn or your university’s network. A polite, concise message expressing your interest and asking for advice can go a long way. If possible, ask for feedback on your writing sample or model.

6. Be Patient and Persistent

• ER recruitment can take time, and positions are limited. If you don’t land an offer immediately, keep refining your skills and networking. Even one solid interview every month or two is a good pace.

If you’d like, you can PM professionals on platforms like WSO or LinkedIn for personalized guidance. Best of luck with your applications—go crush it!

Sources: 3 Key Tips for Getting an ER Interview, 3 Key Tips for Getting an ER Interview