How should a candidate prepare for an interview?

Know your resume well, and be prepared to discuss any portion of it in detail. Think ahead and have some talking points ready to articulate a story. Highlight relevant coursework or projects, and tell us who you are by focusing on any extracurricular. You also want to explain your interest in a particular division and demonstrate a passion for financial services. If you don’t have any financial experience, demonstrate your willingness to learn more about the industry.

How can a candidate demonstrate their interest in financial services?

Try speaking about something current that they have read in the news related to the markets, or know where a particular exchange or index closed the day before. Also, demonstrate your knowledge about the macroeconomy, and the political and social issues happening worldwide, particularly in Asia.

Can you describe some ways that a candidate can learn more about Global Advisers?

There is our website, which holds a lot of useful information. They can also follow us on social media, including LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook. A great way to spark up a conversation with the recruiter is to discuss one of our most recent Tweets or a posting on our Facebook or LinkedIn pages. They could also look at our Careers Blog, and learn more about interviewing and working for the firm. Moreover, networking is very important. A candidate could reach out to recent grads, go to events on campus, tap into alumni networks, and leverage their school’s career center. It’s a great way to learn about the industry and make informed decisions on how your personality may fit into our culture.

How important is that first interview for a candidate?

All of the interviews are important, and we focus on the overall candidates’ ability to perform well. Our experience has taught us that some of the best employees might not have the best first interview.

What other tips would you give to candidates?

Be sure to ask questions. Make them relevant, and don’t focus on salary or compensation the first time around, or even the second. If we intend to make an offer, compensation will come up in the conversation. Also, be on time. It sounds rather obvious, but remember it’s not just your time, it’s everyones. Show respect by being on time, or better yet, arriving a bit early, and if circumstances will cause you to be late, be sure to communicate with your interviewer while in transit. Also, be friendly, and demonstrate energy and personality.

Any final tips for the interview itself?

Be concise and to the point. Sometimes people continue talking until they have finished their prepared speech. Don’t be long-winded. We look for candidates who come across as natural, and not as if they’re reciting a pre-written script. Let’s also not forget the importance of being a good listener. Listening to what the interviewer asks versus answering what you want to answer is really important.