Title: Tough Interview Experience with a Startup
I recently had an interview with a startup founded by former directors of a boutique bank, and it didn’t go well at all. I wasn’t really prepared because I didn’t think I would be joining them, but I thought it would be good practice for my interview skills.
Currently, I’m interning at a boutique bank, yet I struggled to answer some basic questions like “What is investment banking?” and “Why investment banking?” I’ve answered these questions before, so I really don’t know why my mind went blank. When they asked about my company research, I mistakenly brought up a company my colleague worked on, which was such a strange choice. Looking back, I realize that working with them could have been a great opportunity to build my network and gain valuable experience.
I’m still puzzled about how I tripped up during the interview, and I’m eager to avoid similar situations in the future. They even questioned how I secured my current internship! If anyone has tips on how to boost confidence and effectively communicate what I know, I would really appreciate the advice.
One response
It sounds like you had a tough experience, but don’t be too hard on yourself—interviews can be nerve-wracking, especially in high-pressure environments like investment banking. Here are some tips that might help you improve your confidence and communication skills for future interviews:
Preparation is Key: Familiarize yourself with common interview questions in investment banking. Practice answering them out loud, ideally with a friend or mentor who can give you feedback. Consider conducting mock interviews to simulate the real thing.
Research the Companies: Before any interview, do thorough research on the company you’re interviewing with. This includes understanding their recent deals, company culture, and specific projects they’ve been involved in. This will help you feel prepared and give you the confidence to speak knowledgeably about them.
Reflect on Your Experiences: Take some time to think about your past experiences, both in your internship and academic projects. Be ready to discuss what you learned, challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. Using specific examples can help convey your knowledge more effectively.
Mindfulness and Breathing Techniques: When you feel the pressure building during an interview, take a moment to practice mindfulness, such as deep breathing. It can help calm your nerves and clear your mind, allowing you to articulate your thoughts better.
Stay Up-to-Date: The finance world is always changing, so make it a habit to read financial news, industry reports, and thought pieces. This will help you stay informed and boost your confidence when discussing current events in interviews.
Build a Strong Network: Surround yourself with people who are in the industry. Networking can not only help you find opportunities, but discussing your experiences with peers or mentors can often clarify your own understanding and boost your confidence.
Practice Active Listening: During interviews, pay close attention to the questions being asked. If you’re uncertain, it’s okay to take a moment to think before replying or even to ask for clarification.
Feedback Loop: After each interview, take notes on what went well and what didn’t. Seek feedback from friends or colleagues who might have insights, and use this information to improve for your next opportunity.
Remember that everyone has off days and that every experience—good or bad—can be a learning opportunity. Keep practicing, and don’t lose sight of your goals. Good luck with your future interviews!