How to stay organized

To stay organized during your internship, here are some top tips based on the most helpful WSO content:

Outlook Organization:

1. Set Up Rules for Emails:

   • Create rules in Outlook to automatically sort emails into specific folders. For example:
     • Admin emails → Admin folder.
     • Deal-related emails → Deal folder.
     • Newsletters → Reading folder.
     • High-priority tasks → High Priority folder.
   • This ensures your inbox remains clean and you can focus on what matters most.

2. Use a Triage System:

   • Implement a triage folder system:
     • Emails requiring immediate action → Actions folder.
     • Emails that can be archived → Archive folder.
     • News or non-urgent emails → Reading folder.

3. Keep Emails Sharp and Concise:

   • Respond to emails promptly and keep your responses clear and to the point. This will save time and improve communication.

4. Experiment with View Settings:

   • Adjust your Outlook view settings to find what works best for you. This might include grouping emails by conversation or flagging important ones.

Folder Management:

1. Logical Folder/Subfolder Structure:

   • Create a clear and logical folder structure for your files. For example:
     • Main folders: Call Notes, Training Materials, Self-Study, To-Do Lists.
     • Subfolders: Organize by project, client, or topic.

2. Use Standard Naming Conventions:

   • Adopt consistent naming conventions for files and folders. This makes it easier to locate documents quickly.

3. Leverage Tools Like OneNote:

   • Use Microsoft OneNote to keep notes, files, and to-do lists organized. Create tabs for different categories (e.g., meeting notes, training materials) and use checklists for tasks.

4. Corporate Drive Organization:

   • If working on a shared drive, ensure folders are well-organized and labeled. Avoid haphazard structures that can cause confusion.

General Tips:

• Review and Clean Regularly:
  • Dedicate time weekly to review and clean up your inbox and folders. Move completed tasks to a "Completed" folder.
• Attention to Detail:
  • Double-check your work and ensure everything is saved in the correct location.
• Learn from Mistakes:
  • Keep a notebook of mistakes you make (e.g., misfiled documents, missed emails) and review them weekly to avoid repeating them.

By implementing these strategies, you'll stay on top of your tasks and make a strong impression during your internship. Good luck!

Sources: Tips & Suggestions for adapting as a new Investment Banking Analyst (mine and yours), Advice for summer and return offer rate?, Summer 2017 Investment Banking Interns - Do's and Don'ts List, What I Wish Every First Year Analyst Knew, Tips to crank out work really fast