Roast Resume + Remote Internships (more feedback please)

To break into US and EMEA IB, here’s what you need to know based on the most helpful WSO content:

Resume Feedback

1. Tailor Your Resume for IB:

   • Highlight relevant experiences like financial modeling, valuation, or deal exposure. If you lack direct IB experience, emphasize transferable skills from other roles (e.g., research, data analysis, or client-facing roles).
   • Quantify your achievements. For example, instead of saying "Assisted in financial analysis," say "Analyzed financial data for 10+ companies, identifying cost-saving opportunities worth $X million."
   • Keep formatting clean and professional. No fancy fonts or colors—just a clear, concise layout.

2. Focus on Leadership and Impact:

   • Showcase leadership roles in clubs, organizations, or projects. IB recruiters value candidates who can take initiative and lead.
   • Include any extracurriculars that demonstrate teamwork, problem-solving, or resilience.

3. Technical Skills:

   • Highlight proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, and financial modeling. If you’ve completed any relevant courses (e.g., WSO Financial Modeling), list them under certifications or education.

4. Networking:

   • Your resume is only part of the equation. Networking is critical, especially for competitive regions like the US and London. Leverage LinkedIn, alumni networks, and WSO forums to connect with professionals.

Remote Internships in IB

1. Perception by Industry Professionals:

   • Remote internships are generally viewed as less impactful than in-person roles, but they’re still valuable if you can demonstrate tangible outcomes. Highlight specific projects, deliverables, and skills gained during the internship.
   • Be prepared to explain why the internship was remote (e.g., COVID-19, location constraints) and how you made the most of the experience.

2. How to Stand Out:

   • Focus on the quality of work rather than the format. For example, if you worked on a pitch deck, financial model, or market analysis, emphasize the results and your contribution.
   • Mention any additional steps you took to overcome the challenges of a remote setup, such as proactive communication or learning new tools.

3. Supplement with In-Person Experiences:

   • If possible, balance remote internships with in-person roles, even if they’re in a different field. This shows adaptability and a willingness to gain hands-on experience.

Actionable Steps

• Polish Your Resume: Use WSO’s resume review services or templates to ensure it’s IB-ready.
• Network Aggressively: Reach out to professionals in your target regions for coffee chats or informational interviews. Persistence is key.
• Upskill: Take online courses in financial modeling, valuation, or Excel to strengthen your technical foundation.
• Prepare for Interviews: Practice behavioral and technical questions. WSO’s IB Prep Pack is a great resource for this.

Remember, breaking into IB is a grind, but with a strong resume, networking, and preparation, you’ll increase your chances significantly. Keep pushing!

Sources: Advice for summer and return offer rate?, Need advice on my internships options for this summer, What to Focus on in London BB and EB Summer Internship Applications?, Summer Analyst Reflection, Leveraging summer offer from top bank for Winter/Spring Internship?