How to Get an Equity Research Analyst Job: A Guide to Starting a Career in Asset Management

by Gillian D. Elcock

Do you want to get a job in the asset management industry, analyzing stocks or managing portfolios? It is a highly competitive process, with hundreds of university graduates, MBA students, and others trying to get into the industry every year, but not many available positions. How do you go about convincing a company to give you a job? What will the interviews by like and how should you prepare? Should you apply for sell-side research roles as well as buy-side ones? What are the real differences between the buy and sell side? This book, written by an experienced equity research analyst, will answer these questions and more. It will guide you every step along the way, from choosing which companies to target, to mastering the specialized interview process, so that you can stand out from the pack. It an overview of the asset management industry, also known as the 'buy side'; description of the role of the equity research analyst, including a comparison of the buy side and sell side jobs; tips on preparing a great resume and cover letter; details about all the most common interview types you are likely to encounter, and how best to prepare for them; and, advice on how to be successful once you start your career as an equity research analyst.

166 pages, Paperback

First published November 19, 2010

Reviews

[Nona Velez · Rating 3 out of 5]

For technical information, such as writing a pitch, this book isn’t that good and a bit outdated. But to know about general qualitative things about the industry and understand the jargon, it is good.

[Sophia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is helpful for those who want to break into equity research career(either buy side or sell side, especially for buy side). It doesn't teach you the technical knowledge or skills, but will give a practical guide for job hunting process for equity research positions. I like how she categorize different types of interviews and the way to prepare for each of them. The stock pitch interview is particularly helpful. If you want to write an equity research report, you will find practical guidelines starting from scratch.

Key takeaways:
1. Role of buy-side equity research analyst
2.6 Types of interviews:
First round: traditional interview, stock pitch interview, case and brainteaser interview, hostile interview
Second round: stock presentation, "Analyze a stock on the Day"interview

[EMargaritis · Rating 1 out of 5]

Simple with no value to add.

[Abu Sesay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty good book for those who haven't had any guidance on breaking in on this side of the industry. Pretty macro level view, but very helpful and a more fluid read. Most will tell you, 'get your MBA/CFA' and won't go into depth of what to expect in an interview, but she did an extensive job of covering that part, mainly. CV/resume, not as in-depth. But she is forthright in being honest on her experiences, which is a positive.