Resume Feedback? Recent Graduate from B1G University having no luck finding any Finance job
Title sums up my predicament. I recently graduated from Michigan State with a 4.0 and decent internship/extracurricular experience but have had zero luck finding a job. I've had plenty of interviews but I either keep getting to the final round and getting the extremely constructive feedback of "You were great but we decided to go with someone else" or something out of my control happens (company got bought, ghosted after asking to reschedule an interview due to food poisoning, etc.).
I understand the market is not amazing right now but I feel like I shouldn't be in this situation given my background and the fact very few people in my graduating class are suffering from the same issue. I had two fairly strong leads that fell through recently and now I'm forced to go back to square one during a time where very few applications are being posted.
Should also note I've mostly been looking for work in Massachusetts (Where I live). Areas of interest are corporate finance, commercial/corporate banking (most of my previous experience), and wealth management (my minor).
Any feedback on my resume and how I can improve it (both organization and things I can do/learn to add to it) would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you!
Not sure why the post keeps moving itself to the B-School/GMAT forum but there's nothing I can do about that.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some actionable tips to improve your resume and job search strategy:
Resume Feedback:
Highlight Your 4.0 GPA: Make sure your perfect GPA is prominently displayed at the top of your resume. This is a significant achievement and should catch the recruiter’s eye immediately.
Tailor Your Resume for Each Role: Customize your resume for each job application. Emphasize relevant skills and experiences that align with the specific job description. For example, for corporate finance roles, highlight analytical skills, financial modeling, and any relevant coursework or projects.
Quantify Your Achievements: Use numbers to demonstrate the impact of your internships and extracurricular activities. For instance, if you worked on a project that saved costs or improved efficiency, include those metrics.
Include Leadership and Extracurriculars: If you held leadership roles in clubs or organizations, make sure to include them. These experiences can set you apart, especially if they demonstrate teamwork, initiative, or problem-solving.
Polish Formatting: Ensure your resume is clean, concise, and easy to read. Avoid clutter and use bullet points to make your achievements stand out.
Focus on Transferable Skills: If you’re applying to different areas like corporate finance, banking, and wealth management, emphasize skills that are valuable across these fields, such as financial analysis, client relationship management, and strategic planning.
Additional Steps to Boost Your Profile:
Networking: Leverage LinkedIn and alumni networks to connect with professionals in your target industries. Informational interviews can lead to referrals and job opportunities.
Certifications: Consider pursuing certifications like CFA Level I or financial modeling courses to strengthen your technical skills and show commitment to the field.
Mock Interviews: Practice with peers or mentors to refine your interview skills. Focus on behavioral questions and how to effectively communicate your experiences.
Expand Your Search: While Massachusetts is your preferred location, consider applying to roles in other regions to increase your chances. Once you gain experience, you can transition back to your desired location.
Leverage Career Services: If Michigan State offers alumni career services, use them for resume reviews, mock interviews, and job leads.
Stay Persistent: The job market can be tough, but persistence pays off. Keep applying, networking, and improving your skills.
If you’d like more specific advice or examples, feel free to share details about your internships or extracurriculars!
Sources: Graduating MSF - no job, MSF Class of 2018, 3 years work experience in big 4, Ms Finance or MBA? Could you please give me some advice?, UMich Undergrad For IB Recruiting, Resume Guidelines from a WSO Drop Reviewer
Bumping think I saw you on Reddit
Bump
Your resume seems about as good as it can be, personally I think the "additional" section is a little cluttered, but thats not why you aren't getting placement. Personally I think you could benefit from a strong networking push. You may have to take any job you can get for a little bit, but in the mean time reach out to alumni in sectors you want to work in. I'm not sure what you'd like to do, but reaching out to as many alumni as you can, maybe in corporate banking or FP&A roles, will take you pretty far. Two leads is great, but most people need like 5 final round interviews to end up with an offer. Just don't quit yet, you've set yourself up really well.
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