Hardest bulge bracket bank offices to break into?

Question

Hi everyone,

I’m exploring potential offices at bulge bracket banks and have noticed that certain locations seem much harder to break into than others.

Are there specific skills or characteristics that these competitive offices prioritize? Do they look for more polished candidates? Are interviews or technical assessments tougher in these locations? Or is it simply a matter of supply and demand?

For example, I’ve heard that certain IB offices, like Goldman Sachs in NYC or J.P. Morgan in London, are particularly difficult to enter.

Would love to hear any thoughts or experiences from the group!

Answer 1

Hey, great question! Yes, some bulge bracket offices are definitely tougher to break into, especially in major finance hubs like NYC or London. The biggest challenge usually comes from the high demand and limited spots – just more applicants than available positions.

Goldman Sachs in NYC and J.P. Morgan in London are known hotspots because they attract top talent and are very competitive. But what really helps is a mix of technical skills, soft skills, and a solid network. The interviews in these offices tend to be tougher, not just technically, but also in terms of cultural fit.

So it’s not just about your CV, but also how you present yourself during the interviews. Good networking can also make a huge difference!

Hope this helps! ?

Answer 2

Totally agree with this! The high demand in major finance hubs definitely makes these offices extra tough to break into. The combination of strong technical skills, cultural fit, and networking is key.

Lateral hiring can sometimes be a way in if you don’t get a spot straight out of undergrad. You might start in smaller offices or at a different firm, build experience, and then transition into these highly competitive locations later on.

Of course, breaking in directly is ideal, but there’s always more than one path!