Getting into investment banking is extremely competitive, so having the right tutor can give you a significant edge. A good tutor has worked in banking themselves, understands the technical skills required, and knows what it takes to stand out. They can help you master Excel modeling, accounting concepts, and interview skills. With personalized coaching, you’ll gain both hard and soft skills needed to get an investment banking internship or full-time offer. Tutors can provide mocks, practice cases, and teach you how to tell your story effectively. Given the long hours in banking, it’s essential to work with someone you connect with. Do your research to find an experienced tutor aligned with your learning style and goals.
Look for real investment banking experience from potential tutors
The ideal tutor has walked in your shoes before and sat in the interviewer seat as well. They understand the industry lingo, technical skills, and unwritten rules that candidates may not pick up from books alone. A background in M&A, ECM, DCM, or other groups ensures they can teach you the required Excel, accounting, financial modeling and valuation skills in the right context. Ask about previous firms, roles, responsibilities, deals worked on, and exit opportunities. Learn how long they prepared students and their success rate. Experience at top banks like Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, JPMorgan shows they’ve been through a rigorous recruiting process themselves.
Verify their teaching methods fit your learning style
Investment banking requires mastering many concrete, specialized skills. But everyone learns differently. Maybe you prefer to see concepts visually, need to practice repeatedly before it clicks, or learn best via Socratic questioning. A tutor should be able to adapt based on your strengths and development areas, not teach one prescribed way. Some are more academic while others focus on drills. See if they provide AV recordings so you can review material later. Mock interviews should be customized based on your background. Look for patient, engaging tutors who get to know you, provide personalized feedback, and keep you motivated.
Ensure coaching extends beyond hard skills
While technical prowess is crucial, you won’t get the offer without articulating your story and fit for banking. Tutors must coach on ‘soft skills’ like networking, responding gracefully under pressure, storytelling, and thinking on your feet. They should provide frameworks to structure your responses while letting your authentic personality shine. You’ll do extensive ‘fits’ and ‘paths’ preparation tailored to your background and interests. Recorded mocks are key for improving body language, tone, conciseness and eye contact. Your tutor acts like an advisor – guiding your personal branding, resume, networking approach so you can stand out.
Find a compatible personality and communication style
You’ll be spending many intense hours with your tutor, so personality fit is key. They must challenge yet support you. Discuss upfront how you best absorb feedback. Look for someone who is responsive, understands your cultural background, and is easy to talk to. Since sessions are typically online, ensure you’re comfortable communicating remotely. Ask about teaching philosophy, pet peeves, and how they establish rapport. Some specialize in particular demographics like career switchers or MBA students. Consider trial sessions with multiple tutors to find the best match.
Confirm they’re up-to-date with the latest recruiting trends
Banking recruiting evolves quickly, so seasoned tutors actively network and keep pulse on trends. They should incorporate recent mock prompts and technical questions into your prep, adjust to virtual recruitment realities, and know compensation benchmarks. Engage tutors who have placed students recently and ask for student testimonials. Expertise in niches like diversity programs, MBA recruiting, or regional differences is a plus. They will guide your school selection, internship vs full-time, and overall timeline considering application deadlines and exclusivity. Staying current ensures you’ll be prepped for the latest recruiting approach.
The right investment banking tutor – with true industry experience, teaching acumen, interpersonal skills, and up-to-date knowledge – can make the difference in breaking into this highly competitive field. Do your diligence to find someone who fits your learning objectives and style.