Having trouble linking experiences to firm's practice areas.

[Mash239]

Hey everyone I'm having some issues linking my personal experiences to the firm's core practice areas. Two areas I am keen on are M&A and PE. I am taking modules in M&A now which are interesting, and I also completed an InsideSherpa experience. What I usually do is that I say the firm is great at PE/M&A and then I say I am interested because of my experiences, but I can't elaborate because I can't put my finger on why they are interesting. There are just some things that just click your mind right?

How would you link your experiences to the firm's practice areas to show why the firm appeals to you?

 

[Jaysen]

Hey everyone I'm having some issues linking my personal experiences to the firm's core practice areas. Two areas I am keen on are M&A and PE. I am taking modules in M&A now which are interesting, and I also completed an InsideSherpa experience. What I usually do is that I say the firm is great at PE/M&A and then I say I am interested because of my experiences, but I can't elaborate because I can't put my finger on why they are interesting. There are just some things that just click your mind right?

How would you link your experiences to the firm's practice areas to show why the firm appeals to you?

You're doing exactly the right things.

It is often very hard to articulate why something is interesting. That's why many candidates don't do this, or they repeat a point they've read elsewhere. If you want to write a particularly convincing answer, I'd encourage you to take the time to explore why you are interested in M&A/PE based on your experiences. It might take some time, but you will be able to get there, and you'll likely end up with an authentic and original answer.

 

[Jessica Booker]

There is a concept called the 7 levels of why.

Basically if you are stuck on why something is of interest or important to you, ask yourself why up to 7 times. Each time you will find a different layer. You usually find that by the time you get to level 4 or 5 your rationale is more unique and specific.