Hey everyone - I'm looking for some tips to: build a great impression on my first day (attire, conversations to have, things to look out for) add value in the first 3 months (looking for general tips here - understand that this is team and firm-dependant) have an outstanding first year I did a search for similar threads in the WSO forum - found some in banking and not sure how much they apply here.

I'd probably ask one of the associates what the dress code is. Most firms are cool with a button down and slacks. Not too many old school firms out there that require you to wear a suit and tie every day but they still exist. Better to dress up than down. I'd maybe go with a suit with no tie (might as well keep a couple with you in your office). Try to grab coffee with some of the associates. See if there's anyone you can connect with off the bat (e.g., same school, bank, etc.). Don't be afraid to ask questions when you start. Your first 6 months is the best time to do so.

I think one thing to be aware of is that folks in PE are a LOT more focused on their jobs. I know that may sound silly, but I felt in banking there was a bit of a culture of "this job is draining, but we are all in it together for x, y, or z reason." Felt that way at my BB with not just other analysts, but also associates and VPs. At my former PE gig, there were people there that genuinely loved the work so much that they were willing to work late hours / weekends because they enjoyed doing it. For me, I liked it, but didn't love it.

Jan 30, 2023

Starting a role as a PE Associate at a UMM in 3 weeks. What are some tips for me to succeed?

Hey everyone - I'm looking for some tips to:

build a great impression on my first day (attire, conversations to have, things to look out for)
add value in the first 3 months (looking for general tips here - understand that this is team and firm-dependant)
have an outstanding first year

I did a search for similar threads in the WSO forum - found some in banking and not sure how much they apply here. For reference, I am non-target, worked at an MM for 2.5 years, and got a cool opportunity to join a UMM - not really a finance bro so any advice is helpful.

Banking threads:

https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-…

https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forums/eight-habi…

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Associate 1 in PE - Other

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Authored by: Certified Private Equity Professional - 2nd Year AssociateCertified Private Equity Pro

Trader in HF - Other

Good luck bro

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Associate 1 in PE - Other

Thanks bro

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Authored by: Certified Private Equity Professional - 2nd Year AssociateCertified Private Equity Pro

Associate 2 in PE - LBOs

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I'd probably ask one of the associates what the dress code is. Most firms are cool with a button down and slacks. Not too many old school firms out there that require you to wear a suit and tie every day but they still exist. Better to dress up than down. I'd maybe go with a suit with no tie (might as well keep a couple with you in your office). Try to grab coffee with some of the associates. See if there's anyone you can connect with off the bat (e.g., same school, bank, etc.). Don't be afraid to ask questions when you start. Your first 6 months is the best time to do so. Don't get too complacent and drop your guard, particularly with more senior folks. Try to find a sense for the different working styles of the mid and senior levels on your team. See if you might be able to find a potential mentor.
Be intellectually curious. Show that you're willing to go the extra mile. Learn from your mistakes (even absolute studs make them, the ones that get far are the ones who learn from them and don't keep repeating them). Try to win the trust of the people you're working for. Over time, try to take more responsibilities on and "play up" to doing senior associate / VP type tasks. Try to forge relationships with your co-workers. You don't have to be best friends with them but make an effort to get to know them. Don't get too carried away (office romances, getting overly drunk at the holiday party, saying off-color remarks, the whole works).

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Authored by: Certified Private Equity Professional - 3rd+ Year AssociateCertified Private Equity Pro

Associate 1 in PE - Other

Thanks. This is helpful.

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Authored by: Certified Private Equity Professional - 2nd Year AssociateCertified Private Equity Pro

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Starting a role as a PE Associate at a UMM in 3 weeks. What are some tips for me to succeed?

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