How dragged out were most of your interview processes?
Potentially looking to jump ship next year. I'm still currently at my first position out of college. Just timing-wise, I'm curious based on all of your experiences if the interview process for CRE Sr. Analyst/Associate roles has mostly been a very fast, quick, and easy process, or takes a few months and lots of time between interviews. Also curious if nowadays I should expect many, many rounds or just a few. Either way, I know I'm thinking way ahead as it's only February. I have had some informal interview chats, so wondering if I'm a bit too early or not a problem to have these types of calls so soon.
EDIT: Also, how far in advance are you typically hired before your start date?
Its going to differ on a case by case basis. Some processes might literally take 6-12 months and others you might have an offer 2 weeks from your intro convo. I'd give yourself time to find the right role
Based on insights from WSO threads, the interview process for CRE Senior Analyst/Associate roles can vary significantly depending on the firm and market conditions. Here are some key takeaways:
Timeline of the Process:
Rounds of Interviews:
Informal Chats:
Hiring Lead Time:
Market Conditions:
If you’re planning to jump ship next year, starting informal chats now is a smart move. It gives you a head start in understanding the market and building connections, even if you’re not actively applying yet.
Sources: Why is CRE so underpaid at the entry level?, The Real Estate Job Hunt - Mid Level, Career Paths/Exit Opportunities, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/goldman-sachs-investment-banking-summer-analyst-hirevue-overview?customgpt=1, How long was your lateral process ?
When I was interviewing for an associate role at a MF, I had about 10 1-1 interviews, and weekend case study before getting the verbal offer. In total, it took 2-3 months.
How far away was the start date from the day you received the offer?
I didn’t end up there… ended up at a small opportunistic shop.
This is the timeline you can expect for any established company. I'd be surprised if they moved faster than 6 weeks end to end.
For smaller/newer companies ($750m aum), it could take as little as 2-3 weeks.
Eh I’ve found the best way to get into one of those companies is when there is an immediate need because unexpected departure, etc. If you know someone there, they can move you fast. Only hard part is that you need a connection there that puts you on their short list.
i have been interviewing for around 2 years now (similarly still at first role out of college, sr analyst/associate interviews) - seems like every process is insanely competitive up and down from MF to small company. Rarely see a deep process less than 2 ish months; most of my processes all the way to final round took 5-10 meetings w/ case study
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All three of my interviews for developer VP/Sr. Associate over the last 6 years have been 2-3 rounds, probably 3-4 weeks total. Two family offices, one national developer.
Long, I'm about 1 month in of heavy applying, only had maybe 8ish auto rejects, 2 interviews, both I got rejected from after the final round. It takes time. Probably have 60ish apps out there but they take time to come back, even with auto rejection, if they respond at all. Yes Ive been applying on their website and typically tailoring my resume for each role. From what I've hear, every level, there are lots of jobs, but also a lot of applicants for each role.
If you're already planning to jump ship in the next year, there is no reason you shouldn't be interviewing now. If you find a great fit then I'd assume you'd leave earlier than originally expected.
I'd definitely accept something right now. Should've said in the original post I'm looking to move cities so dealing with that process would be more ideal in the new year, as it aligns with my lease expiration, holiday season, etc. Maybe better worded if I find a great fit now, think they'd be receptive to pushing the start date by that much?
For analyst/associate roles I would not count on much more than a month. I just moved cities for a new role and only had 3 weeks from offer letter. If it’s an awesome opportunity you’ll make it work.
In my situation they provided a relocation stipend which made breaking a lease much easier to swallow.
I would say it easily takes 6-12 months.
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