Bright Network member, Joe shares with us how he secured a graduate role as Client Protection Associate at AlphaSights after attending Bright Network High Growth Innovators.
How did Bright Network help?
I first encountered AlphaSights, and met some of its employees, at the Bright Network High Growth Innovators Event in October 2016.
Why did you choose this firm and this role?
What really came across when I heard some of AlphaSights' employees speaking at the Bright Network event, and in meeting them, was their very clear belief in the company and enjoyment in working for it. Even in the ninth year of its existence, AlphaSights has a real energy about it that you can see in everyone that works for it. That was the initial attraction, and as I learnt more about what this rapidly growing organisation does, and how the Client Protection team helps to facilitate its success, the more excited I was about the role.
What was the toughest part of the application process? And your favourite part?
In the course of the application process there was a major emphasis placed upon my motivations for applying and what I hoped to achieve through working in Client Protection. Simple enough, one might think, but when asked many searching questions on the same subject it is really important to provide thoughtful answers that together paint a cohesive picture of who you are and where you hope to go.
My favourite part of the process was the case study, which forms part of the second interview. I was asked to reflect upon a recent deal and to consider some of the legal issues surrounding it. Not only did I enjoy this process of learning about a huge deal in a sector that was entirely unknown to me, but I also enhanced my appreciation of the learning opportunities guaranteed by a role at AlphaSights.
Were you surprised by anything in the process?
The very honest answer is that I was surprised by just how rigorous the process was. After sending in my CV, I was asked to complete a digital interview and some motivational questions. This was followed by a first round interview, and subsequently I was asked to attend three further interviews with increasingly senior members of the AlphaSights team.
What three top tips would you give to graduates applying now?
First and foremost, you need to be able to explain how a role at AlphaSights fits into your career strategy. As I say above, a major emphasis in the interviews is placed upon what your career plan is and how a job at AlphaSights moves you in a helpful direction in that regard. Secondly, (and clearly this applies to any application) be completely honest. If you only first heard of AlphaSights, or even the industry, a week ago then that’s okay so long as you can evidence a real motivation to be part of this company. Thirdly, be confident. This can be difficult in practice but this is a company full of intelligent and confident people, and it is important that you demonstrate that you will fit into this vibrant environment.
