Hi All,
I recently finished up my internship at a MM PE firm and received a return but decided not to pursue it due to not really liking some of the people I was working with, amongst many things some of the associates felt very condescending.
I’m now in a process for a similar firm and want to know the best way to articulate this without making myself feel like the issue if that makes sense
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I don't particularly like to say this, but don't tell the truth for sure. You'll come across as someone who is uptight or difficult to work with.
To be honest, this is hard if the PE firm you're interviewing with is truly similar. I'd like to appeal to positive differentiating factors. Maybe the industry focus? Sector focus? Size range? Degree of interaction with PortCos? Fundraising status?
Thanks a bunch
I was going to focus on a wider scope of industries as my main rationale so this lines up
Agreed with above.
Just say you prefer something [more hands on operationally at X firm because of your background in X] or [more bespoke financing solutions like X] to really understand the [operational] nuances earlier in your career. The learning curve at [former] firm was great, but it ultimately channelled your interest a little more into [something more specific] which from your conversations at [new firm], you'd be very excited to do!
Can't really say anything outright on culture at previous firm unless you get along with interviewer really well or whatever. What's to say you weren't the problem (not me saying that)
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