How to get better at interviews
Yo, freshman at a target here. I got rejected from all my schools’s clubs, and it was mainly because of my interviews (comments said I was nervous). My question is, how can I get better at interviewing not only for finance clubs but also for actual jobs? For reference, I’ve landed two internships but one of them was based on cold emailing and the other was multiple rounds of work samples. My weakness really is just interviews.
Hey there! It sounds like you're already on the right track by securing internships through your initiative. Improving your interview skills, especially in the high-stakes world of finance, is crucial. Here's what you need to know to ace those interviews:
Practice Makes Perfect: The more you practice, the more comfortable you'll become. Use resources like mock interviews, which can be found through your school's career center or even online platforms. Practicing with friends or mentors who can provide honest feedback is invaluable.
Know Your Story: Be able to articulate your journey, why you're interested in finance, and what makes you a great fit for the role or club. Your story should be compelling and highlight your strengths, experiences, and how they align with what you're applying for.
Research and Prepare: Understand the club or company you're interviewing with. Know their values, recent news, and how they operate. This will allow you to tailor your answers and show genuine interest.
Technical Prep: Especially for finance roles, ensure you're sharp on technical questions. This could range from understanding financial modeling to being able to discuss market trends. Resources like the WSO Courses can be a great help here.
Behavioral Questions: Be ready for questions like "Tell me about a time when...". These assess your soft skills and how you handle situations. Reflect on your experiences and have a few go-to stories that showcase your problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership skills.
Mind Your Body Language: Non-verbal cues can say a lot about your confidence. Practice maintaining good posture, eye contact, and a firm handshake. Smiling and nodding show you're engaged and approachable.
Stay Calm and Positive: Nervousness is normal, but learning to manage it is key. Techniques like deep breathing or positive visualization right before the interview can help calm your nerves.
Follow Up: Always send a thank-you email after your interviews. It's a nice touch that can set you apart and show your appreciation for the opportunity.
Remember, every interview is a learning opportunity. Reflect on what went well and what could be improved after each one. Keep pushing forward, and you'll see your interview skills improve over time. Good luck!
Sources: In Search of Wisdom, Interviewing for a SA or Analyst position? Here's what I'd want to hear as a VP., Career in Finance - Reality or Reach?, 21 Finance Interview Questions and Answers, Corporate Finance Q&A with accountingbyday, BJM85, STorIB, and djfiii
You just have to do a ton of mocks
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