PE Offer Finalization & Process

If I've already gone through something like 8 rounds (incl. case study) of interviews with a PE firm including their senior team, and then they ask me to provide references, is it safe to assume that it's basically going to result in an offer?

I have no skeletons in my closet for background checks or anything like that, and I'm positive my references (staffer likes me, a couple other mid/senior level bankers) will give glowing reviews 

My parents say that the rule of thumb when they were looking for jobs is that HR would narrow it down to two people and decide based on references, but they're not in finance and a lot has changed since they were last in the job market, so would be good to get some more informed opinions

Assuming I do get an offer, is it okay to negotiate (to a degree) as well? Going to a fairly typical MM/UMM shop with the typical 2 years of IB

8 Comments
 

Can you share any details on geography/industry focus? I've gone through a similar process that sounds almost identical to what you described very recently as well. There don't appear to be very many shops actively in the market right now...

I wouldn't really count on being able to negotiate the offer, particularly at the entry (Associate level). Maybe a little bit on relocation costs if that's relevant or if you are going to be missing out on an early calendar year 2021 bonus, but I doubt us candidates have a lot of leverage in this hiring market.

 
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