Hello I am an incoming IB analyst and I know that PE interviews will kick off maybe around August or so. Can someone help explain the on cycle process and more importantly how to prepare for these interviews. Is networking beforehand as important as it was for IB internships?
Would appreciate any guidance.. thank you!
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No, networking is not nearly as important for landing interviews relative to IB, especially for on-cycle recruiting. I'd still network though to get a sense of firm culture (lot of shitty people at some firms and you can tell). Also helps you learn more about the day to day, etc.
It's similar to IB recruiting in my experience, but they will really want to see that you are polished / a top quality candidate from the already competitive pool of people working in IB.
You probably know all the basic IB interview stuff if you're starting FT- review that all, and get more guides (WSO one is decent) for PE recruiting specifically. Grind out 10 paper LBO, 10 1-hour models, and then 5 3 statement models till you are confident/good at it.
Figure out and be confident in your preferences- geography, coverage, fund size, etc. You don't want to shoot too broad, try to be realistic with yourself (don't shoot for MF if you're at a MM bank imo, will end up wasting time for low odds).
Be likeable, come across as hardworking and sharp, dress well, carry yourself confidently, and don't be nervous. Fuck them (not really, but hopefully you know what I mean).
Good luck!
Thank you so much for the thoughtful response - I really really appreciate it! Incredibly helpful
Not sure why I’m getting MS but that was my experience.
PM me.
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