Investment Banking Interviews - First Round Interviews Decoded

First of all, we're talking about the formal "give me a job" type of first round interview here. Not about the investment banking informational interview, which is simply a meet and greet.

First Rounders are where your banking lives really kick off and their importance comes down to the simple fact that if you mess up here your banking life is DOA - dead upon arrival!

For target school kids first round investment banking interviews will frequently take place on campus when the banks roll into town and will often be with an analyst or other junior banker who's an alumnus of your school.

In other countries it might take place at the bank's HQ and be with a representative from the IB's HR department - or a junior banker.

For non-target school kids who manage to get a formal recruiting interview it might take place at a nearby school or at the bank. More likely though you'll start out with informal interviews over coffees - aka investment banking informational interviews - thanks to your networking, which can then lead to formal interviews at the bank's HQ.

But location is the least of our worries, so let's move on.
It's more important for you to recognize that the purpose of the first round interview is to act as a quality control mechanism. Junior bankers simply aim to cull enough students so that final rounds (aka Super Saturday or simply Superday) can take place without a throng of 10,000 students storming the bank's offices.
And so they are only testing you on
1) your track record as listed on your resume,
2) your personality and
3) your basic technical skills.

Thankfully you will only be summarily grilled on these issues, because first round banking interviews don't go for that long. Think 20-30 minutes.
How can you sail through first round interviews?

Well, if you manage to 'get along' with the interviewer then you're probably through.
i.e. if you can talk about your resume for a couple minutes, get the banker smiling and answer some Basic as Ben Stiller questions about financial statements and Finance 101 valuation techniques you'll most likely get green lighted for another interview.

And if you can show you have serious passion for banking by talking about your journey over the years, how it has led you to banking and made you want it more than ever before, you're almost home.

Increasingly important in today's recruiting environment though, is your ability to handle some basic investment banking technical interview questions and brain teasers during first rounds. Banks are loading interviews with more than before, because it's the fastest and most objective way to eliminate a huge chunk of the candidate pool (an important point when supply & demand is as out of whack as it is now).

At the end of the day though these first round interviews are just about eliminating the Ben Stiller type retards - i.e. a 'basic smarts' cut. Or said with more panache, these interviews are simply about eliminating the also-rans, not about picking the stars. So don't stress.

Richard is the head writer for Inside Investment Banking - a one-stop shop of advice for students just like you who want to know how to get into investment banking without a 4.0 GPA from Harvard or nepotistic connections on Wall Street.

Created by a team of 5 young bankers, Inside Investment Banking contains all the real insider advice you need to write killer banking resumes, answer tough interview questions, network with bankers and much more.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com

How To Pass the Final Interview For A Call Center Position

The most dreaded stage when applying for any job position is the final interview. In a call center, it is the so-called Client Call, or other descriptive monikers, depending on the company. It is done by someone actually in the head office in the United States - a real McCoy. He judges the prospective applicant's voice quality, manner of speech, perceptible intonation, and of course the rudimentary requirements of correct grammar, good sentence structure, and perfect syntax, in acceptable, extemporaneous, common conversational English. The interview is usually done in a room with the necessary communication facilities, and the applicant is alone.
My experience as a successful first time interviewee went on like this:
HE:      Hi! How are you doing?
ME:      Hi! I feel very good.
HE:      Really? And why is that?
ME:      Well, I've gotten this far, and it makes me feel good.
HE:      That's nice to hear. Can you give me your full name and the application number that was given to you by the Human Resources people, just to confirm what I have on my end?
ME:      (I gave him the information he asked for.)
HE:      Tell me, do you live far from where you are applying now?
ME:      Not really, maybe just about 5 to 7 miles.
HE:      And how long does it normally take you to get there?
ME:      Only half an hour in a private car, under normal conditions. Otherwise, about twice as much time on a public transport, which is actually quite abundant in these parts.
HE:      Nice to hear. Now, supposing you have had a rather stressful day, can you tell me how you handle it, and how you unwind.
At this point, I realized the guy was just trying to make a conversation, and, believe it or not, I became so relaxed I almost fell off my chair! (It was one of those comfortable swivel chairs which can turn around in all directions, quite common in call centers, and apparently one of the most frequently used in that room I was in. Only my quick reflexes holding on to the table's edge saved me from ending up on the floor.)
ME:      If there is anything I can do about the condition at the instant, I would immediately correct it. If not, I will proceed as best I could, but keeping it in mind so I could find a solution that would prevent it from happening again. Finding a viable solution unwinds me.
HE:      Very well said. Now, I am required to ask you a serious question. Are you ready?
ME:      Always ready as I can be.
HE:      If there is anything you could change in the present world, what would it be, and why.
ME:      Wow, that's a big one.
HE:      What?
ME:      I mean that is a very serious question. Let me think a moment, please.
HE:      Take your time.
ME:      Alright, if there is anything I would change in the present world, it would be to do away with terrorism and terrorists. They, for all their avowed religiosity, are avowed agents of destruction and fear, and they are not averse to killing the innocents and the civilians. The world would really be better off without them.
HE:      Very well put, indeed. So, let me thank you for applying for the position, and good luck. Just ask the Human Resources lady for further instructions. Bye.
ME:      I should actually be the one to thank you for giving me the opportunity. Have a nice day.
HE:      You too.
As can be observed, far from the usual mindset the applicants are subjected to, the client call is quite easy to pass, as long as one is calm, cool, and collected. Being prepared, with quick reflexes, helps too.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com

A Winning Interview Process

As a Hiring Authority, is your interview process designed to attract and retain the best candidate?
Quick Assessment:
- Are my questions accurately uncovering a full 360° view of my candidate?
- Am I building momentum with my best candidate by ensuring no more than 2 days between interviews?
- Am I conveying how my open position and career-track are in line with my candidate's career trajectory?
- Do I know my candidate's greatest skills and abilities that will yield the greatest impact to my organization?
- Am I identifying from my candidate's references the specific tasks and projects that I should delegate to my candidate to create the greatest impact for me?
- Does my offer reflect the value my candidate brings to my organization, or is it the very bottom number I think my candidate will accept?
- Am I integrating my new employee with all the key personnel they will be interacting with to help ensure positive and effective transition and communication?
The right Interview process and questions will help uncover the right candidate for you. It's no different than the Prom... you used the right strategy and tactics to ensure you secured the best date possible.
When it comes to Interview questions, I came across these (source unknown) as brilliant questions that uncovers a 360° view of your candidate.
1. HOW DOES YOUR BACKGROUND MAKE YOU A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR THIS POSITION?
Shows fit and preparation by candidate.
2. TELL ME THE TOP THREE THINGS THAT MOTIVATE YOU, AS AN EMPLOYEE, TO DO A GOOD JOB?
Work environment, responsibilities, being informed and motivations.
3. WHAT THINGS DO YOU LOOK FOR IN AN EMPLOYER (MANAGER)?
No wrong answers, only red flags.
4. WHAT SHORTCOMINGS WOULD YOU NEED TO IMPROVE UPON TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN THIS POSITION?
No wrong answers, but no "pat" answers either.
5. WHY DID YOU LEAVE YOUR LAST POSITION?/WHY ARE YOU LEAVING YOUR CURRENT POSITION?
Look for red flags, inconsistencies. No "sour grapes." Promotion opportunity, relocation for family.
6. WHAT ARE YOUR LONG TERM GOALS AND HOW DO YOU PLAN ON ACHIEVING SUCH GOALS?
Look for things that fit our company goals, long term employee.
7. TELL ME ABOUT YOUR PAST SUCCESSES/ACCOMPLISHMENTS. WHAT ARE THEY? WHAT WAS YOUR ROLE?
Look for tangible experience that can benefit our company (i.e. quality improvement, cost reduction).
8. WHAT IS YOUR MANAGEMENT STYLE? TELL ME ABOUT YOUR PERSONALITY, FAVORITE LEISURE ACTIVITIES.
Autocratic vs. Democratic, fit with others on team, hard worker, sound mind and body, proper balance.
9. WHY DO YOU WANT TO WORK FOR OUR COMPANY?
Shows knowledge, to see if they know what they want, and preparation for interview.
10. WHAT CAN (COULD) YOUR EMPLOYER DO (HAVE DONE) DIFFERENTLY TO KEEP YOU?
Level of commitment to make a change, look for red flags.
11. HOW WOULD YOU CHANGE (HAVE CHANGED) YOUR WORK SITUATION AT YOUR PRESENT (LAST) EMPLOYER?
Shows creativity, innovation. Identifies what's important in their work environment.
12. HOW DID YOU GO ABOUT SOLVING PROBLEMS AT WORK? SPECIFICALLY, WHAT KIND OF SUPPORT DID YOU ASK FOR AND WHAT KIND OF HELP DID YOU GET?
Shows initiative, delegation of responsibilities, abilities to troubleshoot or work under pressure.
13. WHO DO YOU WORK WELL WITH AND WHY?
Team player, personality traits, ego.
14. IF I WERE TO CALL YOUR PRESENT (LAST) EMPLOYER, WHAT WOULD THEY SAY ABOUT YOU AND WHY?
Consistency with reference checks, confidence in abilities.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/

Five Interview Mistakes to Avoid

An interview is a controlled conversation between you, (the seller), and the employer (the buyer), to determine if there is a mutual fit between the company's requirements and your qualifications. Ideally, an interview should be a productive conversation. On the other hand, it is very easy to trip yourself up by making some common interview mistakes many job candidates often make. Here are some tips that will prevent you from making some common job interview mistakes and sabotaging your chances of getting the job.

1. Turn off your cell phone: Having a cellphone ring during an interview, or worse, answering it, will definitely not impress the interviewer. Recruiters report this is a very common interview mistake

2. Avoid reciting you resume and cover letter in the interview: Instead, focus on selling yourself and expanding on what your documents say. Tell the interviewer why the company should hire you. Elaborate on your qualifications.

3. Avoid being negative: You'll make a big interview mistake if you ramble on about how your previous employer may have been a jerk or a tyrant. Drawing attention to this fact portrays you as being critical and gossipy. Try to re-frame your past experiences, emphasizing what you learned.

4. Watch poor body language: Slouching, avoiding eye contact and a limp handshake portray a tentative attitude and a lack of confidence. On the other hand, sitting up straight, leaning forward in your chair, having a firm handshake, and smiling convey self-assuredness, warmth, honesty, and enthusiasm.

5. Be sure to follow up: If you are seriously interested in the job, then avoid the mistake of just sitting and waiting. Follow-up! That can make the difference between a second interview (even an offer) or falling off the radar. Drop off a hard copy note to the interviewer (rather than an e-mail) within 24 hours of your meeting. Thank the interviewer his/her time and reiterate your interest in and qualifications for the position; he/she will better remember you and your note will reaffirm your enthusiasm and interest in the job.
It takes common sense to performing well in an interview; it also takes common sense to avoid these common interview pitfalls which can derail your success.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/

Job Interview Dress Code for a Rainy Day

What to wear to a job interview can be a complicated decision. You want to make a great first impression at the interview and you have painstakingly planned what to wear. Problem is, mother nature didn't get the memo that your perfect job interview outfit did not take into consideration a rainy day.
So what do you do?

Well, you still want to show up dressed for a job interview, looking sharp and ready for success. Even though the interviewers may not remember what you are wearing, they should remember that your appearance was polished and professional. In the job interview, you will be evaluated on what you are wearing as much as what you are saying.
Here is a quick "job interview clothes" guide for a rainy day:

Clothes - The default job interview dress code is conservative or business attire. Wear a pant suit or dress pants on a rainy day. You will protect your legs from getting wet and it won't be as noticeable. Stick to darker neutral colors like navy and black because you will still look sharp even if you get a little wet. I usually recommend a dress shirt or blouse in white or a light pastel color like pink, blue and green. But for a rainy day, I recommend staying away from white because you will end up with a see-through shirt if you do get soaked.

Shoes - You should never wear open shoes or sandals to an interview and a rainy day is no exception. Wear conservative pumps and make sure you select a pair of heels that isn't too high since you will be navigating through wet and slippery terrain. Trust me, there will be puddles everywhere and your goal will be to do everything possible not to trip and fall in the parking lot, at the entrance of the building or in the lobby.

Accessories - If it's raining, your best accessories will be a nice umbrella and matching raincoat. It's hard to look professional when you are holding a multicolored umbrella with polka dots and wearing a bright red raincoat. Stick to dark neutral colors like black and navy to match your job interview outfit.

Hair - Your job interview hairstyle is the first to go on a rainy day and the hardest to put back together when you have left the house. Pick a simple hairstyle that is easy to fix in the event that it's also a windy day. It can make or break your entire look. Again, you want it to be polished, not messy and out of place when you arrive. Choose to pull your hair back in a ponytail instead letting it hang loose if you can.

Purse - You'll have plenty to hold already with an umbrella and raincoat in your hands so keep your purse or handbag small. Stick to a leather bag or briefcase since it wipes dry easily and carries off a professional look regardless of the weather.
Your attire for job interviews even on a rainy day only needs a couple of adjustments to work. Sounds pretty simple right?

By the way, do you want to learn more about how to confidently prepare for a job interview to gain a massive competitive advantage and land a job offer faster than you ever imagined possible?

Article Source:EzineArticles.com

Preparing For a Panel Interview

So you finally got a job interview invitation and you couldn't be happier. You're now one step closer to landing your dream job. You now receive a call from the company representative advising you to prepare for a panel interview. As if a single interview is not stressful enough; even more so with panel interviews.
Though less common, panel interviews are very possible. And because they are quite not the ordinary, more often than not, the company will inform you regarding the matter ahead of time. Just so you can prepare well. And you definitely should.

Panel interviews can be nerve-wracking. The thought of speaking in front of 2 or more people being questioned can be quite challenging. Here are some tips to survive and hopefully pass the panel interview with success:

You would need to be in your best possible condition, be physically and mentally prepared as they say. Get adequate rest the night before your interview. A good night sleep will keep your mind afresh and sharp the next day. You would definitely need that for your big day.
Also, avoid going to the interview with an empty stomach. Get yourself a good (preferably healthy) meal prior your interview. This will give you a steady supply of energy needed both by your mind and body.
If you're an experience job seeker and have been to numerous interviews before, you now have some ideas on what they will ask you -common interview questions about you, your education or previous work experience, etc. Try to practice some lines - especially the "introduce yourself" part, so to start off the interview with confidence.

Get to know more about the company and job position your applying for, the job description to be exact. Learn as much as you can about the organization. Familiarize yourself with the company's history, mission and vision, and policies. Dig dipper if you must so you won't necessarily look clueless on the interview itself.
Dress appropriately. The importance of proper dress code couldn't be stress even more. The phrases "dress to impress" and "dress for success" should guide you well. Come in perfect business attire. Wear your best tie if you must. If you have a silk necktie, you should not have any second thoughts of wearing it, especially if it will make you look smart.

Prepare your own set of questions ahead of time -your concerns, expectations, or questions about company policies etc. Panel interviews are rarely one-sided. Often times, they would give you a chance to ask some questions too. Doing so also indicates your level of interest for the job. Of course, don't ask silly, unrelated questions. Be smart, professional, and courteous. List your questions prior your interview and preferably, memorize them too. It's quite annoying to see you glancing on a piece of paper while all eyes are on you.
Of course, as with one to one interviews, it's also natural to feel some level of nervousness. But don't let this get on your way. Relax and keep your poise. Yes, this is easily said than done, but being able to keep your emotions in control will go a long way.
Here's another tip - During the interview, take one question at time.

Article source: ezinearticles.com

The Perfect Position - Interview Do's and Don'ts

You must have done an awesome job with your resume and cover letter, because you got the call - they want you to come in for an interview. How do you wow them in person after wowing them on paper? Follow these helpful hints for making the most of your first impression.
DO arrive on early
In fact, give yourself an extra 30 minutes of travel time, even more if you're not taking a high-traffic route. The last thing you want is to be sweating in a traffic jam, panicking as the minute hand on your watch creeps closer and closer to interview time. Arriving early not only shows your future employer that you respect their company and their time, but it gives you a few extra minutes to give yourself a once-over in the rearview mirror, to touch up your makeup or hair, and to fill out any pesky paperwork.
DON'T drive too fast on the way
Speeding tickets come at the most inopportune times. How well will you be able to concentrate after being pulled over and issued a pricey citation? Trust me, don't speed. Even if you've never gotten a speeding ticket before, today will be the day. It's almost guaranteed.
DO dress for success
If you have a nice, seasonally appropriate suit, wear it. If you don't have a decent suit but you do have the time and money to go shopping, buy one. When all else fails, slacks or a modest skirt paired with a button-down or a sweater set definitely works. Ideally you should lean toward the business side of business casual. Better to be overdressed and come off as professional and with good taste than to be underdressed and look like an amateur.
DON'T overdo it
Too much perfume, hairspray, makeup, jewelry. If you have to ask yourself, "Is this too much?" the answer is yes. Spritz a little fragrance in front of you and walk through it a few times for a light scent. Keep your hairstyle simple and professional. Twist it back in a clip if you're prone to playing with it while you talk - that's a no-no! When it comes to makeup, less is more. The same goes for jewelry: You want to accent your natural beauty and vibrance, not distract your interviewer.
DO initiate a handshake
Practice shaking hands with your best friend, your significant other, or your mom before your interview. You want a firm, straight handshake with a nice smile and solid eye contact - none of that "Ahh do de-clare" Scarlet O'Hara, kiss-my-hand-while-I-bat-my-eyes crap. Extend your arm with your thumb and pinkie, both parallel to the floor. Grasp the other person's hand about as hard as you held your dad's hand crossing the street when you were a kid. Pump twice and then make a clean break. Don't pull away if they're still holding on, though!
DON'T be the first to sit down or stand up
You'll probably sit in a reception area for a few minutes before being escorted to your interviewer's office or a meeting room, where someone will show you to a chair. It's good manners to let them sit first. An exception is if they ask you to sit down and then offer you a drink or something. Politely ask for water as you seat yourself with grace and poise. (Avoid coffee and soda, which can give you bad breath.) When the interview is over, let them initiate the goodbye by allowing them to stand first. You can initiate the farewell handshake.
DO know what you want to tell them before you get there
They're probably going to ask you why you're a good fit for their position, why you're leaving your old job, where you see yourself in five years, and what you're looking for in a job in general. Do your homework ahead of time and know what points you want to plug. Come up a few infobytes, short one- or two-sentence personal ads: "One of my favorite things about working in the fast-paced environment of my last job, at XYZ Company, is that I got to do such-and-such, which really helped me to develop my fill-in-the-blank skills." Even if they don't ask you the specific questions, you can use your infobytes to subtly sell yourself throughout the interview
DON'T get so wrapped up in your agenda that you ignore their questions
Interviewers expect you to come with something prepared, but they also expect you to respond honestly to their questions. If they ask you something you're not prepared to answer, respond with, "That's a really good question. Let me think about that for a moment." Then take a breath and a sip of water to give yourself a few seconds to formulate an answer. If they ask you something factual or even hypothetical that you just don't know the answer to, don't be afraid to say, "You know, I'm not really sure." If you can, try to liken it to a similar scenario that you can relate to so you can end on a positive note.
DO relax and be yourself
The bottom line is that you're looking for a job that's a good fit for you. It's better to not get the job because you were yourself than to get it because you acted like someone else - you can fake it for only so long before you and your employer both end up miserable. But if you get the job because you let your beautiful self shine through, you're destined for big things.

Article Source:EzineArticles.com