Gerasim’s insights into securing an Investment Banking Analyst role with Houlihan Lokey

We recently caught up with Gerasim about securing an Investment Banking Analyst role with Houlihan Lokey, top tips for the application process and how Bright Network helped in securing the role.

What stood out to you about Houlihan Lokey?

I learned about Houlihan Lokey from people I had reached out to before applying. Through this process I found out more about their Corporate Finance division. What stood out to me when I was doing my initial research was the culture. Everyone seemed very down-to-earth and approachable. Being able to work with people who treat you properly and respectfully, so you don’t feel like you’re in a corporate environment, was very important to me.

How did you make your application stand out?

I relied on feedback from my existing network already working in the industry. I had gone to the University of Westminster and I was aware from the beginning that I would need to have extra experience to secure the roles I was looking for. To do this, I reached out to everyone I could think of or find on LinkedIn and asked them to join a call and understand what they would like to see in an application, help with my CV, psychometric tests and mock interviews. This really helped me polish before having interviews. Getting your application read and passing the initial screening can be the hardest part of the process, and the calls I had with my extended network helped me do this.

Find out how to build connections online with our Top Tips for Virtual Networking.

What part of the application process did you find the most challenging?

I found the numerical tests challenging because they can catch you off guard. However, you can prepare for them beforehand which is really useful. I prepared by using the practice tests online which showed me what I would need to do when the real test came around. Other than that, I would practice for interviews by recording myself answering general questions then refining the answer until I was happy with the quality of the answer and the presentation.

How did Bright Network help you secure this role?

I completed Internship Experience UK with Bright Network in 2021 in Investment Banking. I learned a lot about the sector which I hadn’t known before. I also got to hear from industry experts who were some of the first I ever got to interact with. Internship Experience UK was my initial introduction which confirmed to me that I was interested in the sector.

I think one of the hardest things for people who don’t come from affluent backgrounds is access to information - what is Investment Banking and how do you get into it? Having organisations ready to break down the barriers and level the playing field is key. In that regard, Bright Network made a significant difference to me by providing me with information which is usually inaccessible.

What top three tips would you give Bright Network members looking to follow in your footsteps?

Network, network, network! It’s essential. Your network is your net-worth and you have no idea how useful the people you meet will be to your life and your career. Before you make an application, reach out to people in industry or company.

Put yourself out there. Try to find out as much as you can about the industry and key players in the industry.

Remember that there’s no standard way to get into a career. Lots of people transition between different positions and industries, and there are so many different ways you can get started in the sector you’re interested in.