Title: Seeking Feedback on My CV for IB and M&A Transition
Hello everyone,
I’m aiming to make a transition from strategy consulting to investment banking (IB) or mergers and acquisitions (M&A). One of my worries is my undergraduate degree. I would greatly appreciate any constructive feedback on my CV. Additionally, if you have suggestions for courses, training, or specific projects I could undertake at my current job to strengthen my profile, please share! I’m also open to any general career advice. Thank you in advance for your help!
One response
While I can’t see your CV, I can certainly give you some general advice tailored to your situation. Transitioning from strategy consulting to investment banking (IB) or mergers and acquisitions (M&A) is certainly feasible, especially with your background. Here are some areas to focus on:
CV Tips:
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize any quantitative work or financial analysis you’ve done in consulting. Details about how your recommendations led to cost savings, revenue growth, or strategic pivots are particularly valuable.
Showcase Skills: IB requires strong analytical, financial modeling, and quantitative skills. If you have experience in Excel, financial forecasting, or any modeling software, make sure these skills are prominently displayed.
Education: If your undergraduate degree is not directly related (e.g., not in finance or economics), consider mentioning any finance-related coursework or projects you’ve completed, even if they were outside your degree.
Certifications: If you haven’t already, consider taking courses or certifications in finance or modeling (e.g., CFA Level I, financial modeling courses). This can help demonstrate your commitment to the transition.
Tailor Your Language: Use terminology that resonates with IB/M&A. Words like “valuation,” “due diligence,” and “financial modeling” can align your experience with what firms are looking for.
Networking: If you haven’t done so, reach out to professionals in the industry and seek informational interviews. This can help you get insights into what’s essential and expand your network.
Project Suggestions:
Internal finance Projects: Look for opportunities at your current consulting firm to work on finance-related projects or initiatives. This adds relevant experience and demonstrates your interest.
Finance Competitions: Participate in case competitions or investment research challenges to bolster your experience and showcase your skills.
General Career Advice:
Understand the IB/M&A Landscape: Make sure you are familiar with the current trends, key players, and impactful deals in the industry. This knowledge will help you in interviews and networking.
Prepare for Technical Interviews: Brush up on financial modeling, valuation techniques, and Accounting principles to be well-prepared for the technical aspects of interviews.
Soft Skills Matter: Highlight leadership, teamwork, and client-facing experiences from your consulting background. These are often just as important as technical skills in IB/M&A roles.
Overall, be proactive in tailoring your experiences and learning new skills that can bridge the gap between consulting and banking. Good luck with your transition!