Is This Resume ER Ready or Am I Delusional? (Non-Target Sophomore)

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some actionable tips to ensure your resume is ER-ready:

1. Highlight Relevant Experience

• If you have any experience writing equity research reports, even personal ones, make sure to include them. As seen in WSO threads, submitting personal ER reports can demonstrate your initiative and understanding of the field.
• Include any internships, even if they are not directly related to ER, but focus on transferable skills like financial modeling, data analysis, or industry research.

2. Tailor Your Resume for ER

• Emphasize your ability to analyze companies, industries, and financial statements. If you’ve done any projects or coursework related to valuation or market analysis, list them under relevant coursework or projects.
• If you’ve participated in finance clubs or competitions, prioritize those over unrelated extracurriculars. However, avoid overloading your resume with club activities unless they directly showcase skills relevant to ER.

3. Showcase Writing and Analytical Skills

• ER roles value strong writing skills. If you’ve written reports, articles, or even blog posts about companies or industries, mention them. Highlight your ability to synthesize data into actionable insights.

4. Networking and Alumni Connections

• Networking is critical for breaking into ER, especially from a non-target school. Reach out to alumni in ER roles, and mention any connections or informational interviews you’ve had in your resume or cover letter.

5. Address Gaps or Concerns

• If you’re worried about white space, focus on quality over quantity. Use bullet points to succinctly describe your achievements and responsibilities. Avoid filler content.
• For manual labor or unrelated jobs (e.g., family real estate business), frame them in a way that highlights transferable skills like work ethic, problem-solving, or teamwork.

6. Polish Your Resume

• Keep it concise and professional. Avoid high school achievements unless they are extraordinary or directly relevant.
• Use a clean, easy-to-read format. WSO threads often emphasize the importance of a well-structured resume to make a strong first impression.

7. Consider Writing ER Reports

• Writing 1-2 ER reports on companies or industries you’re passionate about can set you apart. These can be used as talking points during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in ER.

8. Leverage Your Story

• If you’re transitioning from IB aspirations to ER, craft a compelling narrative about why you’re passionate about researching companies. This can be included in your cover letter or discussed during interviews.

By implementing these strategies, you can significantly improve your chances of landing an ER internship. Good luck!

Sources: Recent grad looking to get into ER seeking advice, What should go on my resume and cover letter in my circumstance for internship applications (RE specific), Resume templates for associate recruiting, 3 Key Tips for Getting an ER Interview