The highly competitive interview process for summer internships at top investment banks has begun. Known as "superdays," these intense events can make or break a student's career aspirations. Eric Jordan, a partner at Goldman Sachs and global co-head of investment grade capital markets and derivatives, shares invaluable advice on how to excel during these high-pressure interviews. His insights focus on finding your unique selling point, managing stress effectively, and ensuring consistency across multiple rounds of questioning.

Strategies for Standing Out in a Crowd

Eric Jordan emphasizes the importance of differentiating oneself in an environment where every candidate boasts impressive academic credentials and extracurricular achievements. He advises applicants to identify what makes them unique and to communicate this clearly during the interview. This distinctive feature, or "hook," should highlight qualities that would be valuable to a team at Goldman Sachs. Whether it's an unusual hobby, exceptional interpersonal skills, or a specific passion, showcasing these attributes can leave a lasting impression on interviewers.

Jordan explains that while many candidates come from prestigious backgrounds with similar qualifications, it is crucial to reflect on personal strengths and interests that set you apart. For instance, if you have a knack for ballet or an innovative approach to dehydrating fruit, these unconventional talents can demonstrate intellectual curiosity and attention to detail—qualities highly sought after in finance. Furthermore, he notes that student athletes often perform well due to their demonstrated dedication and drive. Regardless of one's background, identifying and articulating what makes you special is key to standing out. Jordan encourages candidates to think deeply about their personal traits and experiences that could resonate with potential colleagues. By focusing on genuine, relatable stories, applicants can convey their best selves while maintaining humility and professionalism.

Navigating High-Pressure Interviews with Grace

Jordan acknowledges the immense pressure students face during superdays, where performance can significantly impact future career prospects. He stresses the importance of managing anxiety and presenting oneself authentically. The ability to remain composed under stress is not only a testament to emotional resilience but also indicative of how one might handle the fast-paced, demanding nature of a junior banker's role. Jordan advises candidates to strike a balance between being relaxed and maintaining professionalism, ensuring they can engage in meaningful conversations without becoming overly casual.

During superdays, students typically undergo multiple rounds of interviews, often conducted by pairs of senior bankers. Jordan highlights that consistency across these interactions is paramount. Interviewers will later compare notes to evaluate candidates fairly. Therefore, maintaining a consistent message and demeanor throughout the process is crucial. Jordan also underscores the value of demonstrating problem-solving skills and teamwork abilities. Rather than relying on memorized answers, candidates should focus on showcasing their thought processes and adaptability. By preparing thoroughly yet remaining flexible, aspiring interns can navigate the challenging superday process with confidence and poise.