On-cycle in US after UK EB experience

I'm currently a senior in the US with a return offer from an EB in London. However, I’m looking to explore on-cycle recruiting in the US. Given that I have primarily UK experience, I would appreciate any advice on the best way to approach the US recruiting process and how to position myself as an international candidate.

11 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some key points to consider when approaching the US recruiting process with primarily UK experience:

  1. Understand the Differences in Recruiting Culture:

    • The US and UK recruiting processes have notable differences. In the UK, the process is more structured and multi-faceted, requiring a balance of experience, networking, standardized test scores, and other factors. In the US, you can often compensate for weaknesses in one area by excelling in another, such as through extensive networking.
  2. Leverage Your International Experience:

    • Highlight your unique perspective and experience from working in London. Emphasize how this international exposure has equipped you with a diverse skill set and a global outlook, which can be valuable in the US market.
  3. Networking:

    • Networking is crucial in the US. Attend structured networking events and engage in coffee chats to build connections. Mentioning who you know within the firm can be beneficial during the interview process.
  4. Tailor Your Application Materials:

    • Ensure your CV and cover letter are tailored to the US market. Highlight relevant experiences and skills that align with the expectations of US employers. Have your CV reviewed by multiple people to ensure it meets US standards.
  5. Prepare for Technical and Behavioral Interviews:

    • While technical questions may be less emphasized in the UK, they are crucial in the US. Prepare thoroughly for technical interviews and be ready to discuss your experiences in detail.
  6. Utilize Headhunters and Placement Consultancies:

    • In the UK, headhunters play a significant role in helping candidates move around. Utilize similar resources in the US to navigate the on-cycle recruiting process effectively.
  7. Structured Networking Events:

    • Make sure to attend structured networking events as they are important in the US process. HR often uses these events to identify and shortlist candidates for interviews.

By following these steps, you can effectively position yourself as a strong international candidate in the US recruiting process.

Sources: Advice for London applicants, FT recruiting timeline London, My Advice for International Students in the US (F-1 Visa, OPT, CPT, H-1B), Advice for London applicants, Is UK IB experience worth anything in the US?

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Pretty much impossible because US funds won't sponsor visas when there are tons of similar candidates with US citizenship. Only ways to do large cap PE in the US is to recruit at a fund with US offices (pretty much all), be a strong performer and ask to move offices. Other way is to do banking and move offices within IB (a bit easier), get green card then lateral to PE at senior level.

 

Does he know what made it so difficult? He doesn't need sponsorship and, sure, the market is different but it's still the same job

 

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