CPI Intro call

has anyone had an intro call with CPI (as an incoming analyst) or if you recruited last year? I've heard that in the past they typically screen with a technical or paper lbo. do they still make you do a paper LBO on zoom? what would you recommend to prep for this call specifically?

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Based on the most helpful WSO content, CPI's intro calls for on-cycle recruiting have been known to include technical components, such as a paper LBO. While there isn't explicit confirmation in the dataset that they still conduct paper LBOs on Zoom, it's a good idea to prepare for this possibility.

Recommendations to Prep for the Call:

  1. Paper LBO Practice:

    • Practice simple paper LBOs to ensure you can quickly calculate IRR, equity multiples, and basic leverage metrics.
    • Focus on understanding the mechanics of an LBO, including assumptions for purchase price, debt, and exit multiples.
  2. Technical Knowledge:

    • Be well-versed in M&I Advanced Guides and BIWS 400 Technicals, as these are highly recommended for technical prep.
    • Review key financial concepts like valuation methods, DCF, and basic accounting principles.
  3. Behavioral Prep:

    • Prepare a concise and polished "Tell Me About Yourself" (TMAY) and "Walk Me Through Your Resume" story. These are staples in interviews.
  4. Mock Interviews:

    • If possible, practice with friends or mentors who have gone through the process. They might have insights or materials to share.
  5. General PE Knowledge:

    • Be ready to discuss what makes a good LBO candidate or an attractive industry. This demonstrates your understanding of private equity fundamentals.
  6. Zoom-Specific Prep:

    • Ensure your setup is professional, with a quiet environment, good lighting, and a stable internet connection.

For more detailed guidance, you can explore WSO's Private Equity Interview Prep resources or their Private Equity Interview Bootcamp for structured preparation.

Sources: CPI OCR Call, Private Equity Recruiting Walkthrough – My Experience, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/private-equity/on-cycle-recruiting-2018-what-to-expect?customgpt=1, Guide to LA IB Scene (2023 Edition), CS Incoming Analyst global Zoom session

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Had a call a few weeks ago, no paper LBO or technicals. Was told they are doing it early in anticipation of on-cycle moving earlier than it was last year (late June). Would just have your story down as to how you ended up at your college, your background, and what you did in college. Also, make sure you can tell them exactly what type of firms you are interested in. No other questions were asked at least during my call; extremely conversational.

 

Did you talk about specific firms you’re interested in? What did they say would be the next steps/when they would be in touch when recruiting starts?

 

Had a similar experience as well. Asked what looking for location/fund size/strategy. Did ask what my dream placement would be. Also asked what industries/types of companies I think are good to invest in -- I think as a low ball technical. I think they know this is all happening so early that they aren't expecting technical expertise yet. 

 

Wasn't asked about dream placement, but maybe that's because I was pretty specific on what types of firms I am interested in, given my background. I didn't get asked the industries or types of companies question, but I did just get asked what broader sector/vertical I am interested in/would be a good place to invest. Idt that was a technical; it seems more like a case of them trying to figure out your interests and where to potentially give you interviews for the PE processes since they move pretty quickly.

 

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