Investment banking recruiting firms like Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley and JPMorgan Chase have very structured and competitive recruiting processes to identify top talent. Key trends shaping recruitment include earlier timelines, emphasis on diversity, and use of platforms like InsideSherpa for skills assessment. Firms now start recruiting as early as sophomore year, using internship programs as extended interviews. They utilize multi-channel outreach to target diverse candidates based on school, major, leadership qualities and relevant experience. Virtual simulation platforms allow candidates to showcase analytical, financial modeling and client communication abilities.
Large firms start recruiting very early, even sophomore year, to lock in top prospects
Top investment banks actively recruit across target schools, with some even beginning outreach to sophomores for insight programs and leadership conferences. Early exposure helps candidates learn about bank culture and opportunities while firms assess student potential and leadership qualities. By junior year, students can access highly coveted summer analyst internships. Morgan Stanley, for example, specifies two application deadlines for its Hong Kong investment banking internship program to encourage early submissions.
Diversity and inclusion are increasing priorities in campus recruiting efforts
Investment banks are emphasizing diversity and inclusion across their recruiting funnels. Tactics like multi-channel outreach target candidates across a wider range of schools, majors and backgrounds. Banks also conduct tailored info sessions focused on educating minority candidates. Success is tracked based on diversity metrics for applicants, program participants and full-time hires.
Virtual simulation platforms allow assessment of key banking competencies
Banks are utilizing emerging recruitment platforms like InsideSherpa that provide virtual simulation experiences to candidates. These build relevant skills in financial modeling, slide presentation building, client communication and live case interviews. Simulation performance offers recruiters data-driven insights on competencies beyond a resume.
Rolling application timelines expedite hiring based on firm demand and candidate readiness
While some divisions still follow fixed application deadlines, investment banking recruiting is increasingly utilizing rolling admissions models. Qualified candidates can submit applications at any point, with reviews conducted continuously based on business demand. This benefits student job seekers by allowing matching with hiring waves based on individual readiness.
Top investment banking recruiting firms like Goldman and Morgan Stanley implement very structured recruitment processes focused on early prospecting across target schools. Key trends include expanding outreach for diversity, use of simulation platforms and rolling application models allowing fluid matching between candidate and firm readiness.