Point72 Cover Letter

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Top 25 Point72 Interview Questions & Answers

Get ready for your interview at Point72 with a list of common questions you may encounter and how to prepare for them effectively.

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Point72, a renowned global asset management firm, has made a significant impact on the finance industry since its establishment in 2014. With a remarkable AUM (Assets Under Management) of approximately $22.1 billion as of 2021, the company has garnered immense attention for its expertise in discretionary long/short, quantitative, and macro investment strategies. Known for its rigorous recruitment process and a strong emphasis on talent development, Point72 is notorious for its challenging interview questions that assess the analytical and problem-solving skills of potential candidates. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of Point72’s interview process, offering valuable insights into the types of questions you can expect, and how to best prepare for a successful interview experience with this prestigious firm.

Point72 Hiring Process

The Point72 hiring process typically begins with an online application, followed by a technical assessment or case study. Candidates may then proceed to a phone screening or interview with HR, team leaders, or managers. The process may involve multiple rounds of interviews, including behavioral and technical questions, as well as discussions about past projects and experiences. The overall process can be lengthy, sometimes taking up to two months, and may vary depending on the role and location. Some candidates have reported a lack of communication or feedback from HR during the process.

Common Point72 Interview Questions

1. how would you apply your financial analysis skills to identify potential investment opportunities for point72.

This question is a test of your analytical prowess and ability to translate data into actionable insights. Your potential employers want to see that you can dig into the details of financial reports, market trends, and economic indicators, and use that information to identify promising investment opportunities. They’re interested in your ability to think critically, make informed predictions, and ultimately contribute to the company’s financial success.

How to Answer:

Highlight your proficiency in analyzing financial statements, industry trends, and market data. Discuss how you’ve leveraged these skills in the past to identify successful investment opportunities. You can also share your approach towards risk assessment, due diligence, and valuation methods. If applicable, mention any specific analytical tools or software that have aided your process. Always ensure to convey your answer with concrete examples and outcomes.

Example: I would apply my financial analysis skills to identify potential investment opportunities for Point72 by conducting a thorough review of the company’s financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements. This allows me to assess a company’s profitability, liquidity, solvency, and efficiency in using its assets. I would also use ratio analysis techniques such as Price/Earnings (P/E), Return on Equity (ROE), and Debt/Equity ratios to compare the performance of different companies within the same industry.

Moreover, I would utilize quantitative models to forecast future earnings and revenue growth. By doing so, I can determine whether a company is undervalued or overvalued based on its current market price. Additionally, I believe it’s important to consider qualitative factors such as management quality, competitive position, and industry trends. Lastly, I’d monitor macroeconomic indicators like GDP growth rates, inflation rates, and interest rates since these factors can significantly impact a company’s performance and hence its attractiveness as an investment opportunity.

2. Describe a time when you had to analyze a large dataset to support an investment decision. What tools and techniques did you use?

This question is critical because it directly probes your ability to utilize quantitative analysis, a key skill for roles in investment and finance. It gives the interviewer insight into your level of comfort with data, your analytical skills, and your proficiency with tools commonly used in the field. It also demonstrates your decision-making process under pressure when dealing with large amounts of information.

Start by discussing a specific instance where you handled large datasets to facilitate investment decisions. Detail the software or tools used, such as Excel, SQL, or Python, and explain how you manipulated the data for meaningful insights. If you utilized techniques like predictive modeling, machine learning, or statistical analysis, mention them. Conclude with the outcome of your analysis and its impact on the investment decision.

Example: In a previous project, I was tasked with analyzing a large dataset to determine the viability of investing in a particular industry. The data included numerous variables such as market trends, financial statements and economic indicators across multiple years.

To tackle this task, I used Python programming language for its powerful libraries like Pandas and NumPy that are specifically designed for data manipulation and analysis. For visualizing the data, I utilized Matplotlib and Seaborn which helped me understand patterns, correlations and outliers more effectively. Additionally, I employed machine learning techniques using Scikit-learn library to construct predictive models based on historical data.

The result of my analysis supported an investment decision by identifying potential growth areas within the industry, highlighting key risks associated with the investment, and providing quantitative backing for our strategy. This experience underscored the importance of rigorous data analysis in making informed investment decisions.

3. Can you discuss your experience with data modeling and how it has helped you in making informed decisions for investments?

Data is the lifeblood of modern investment strategies, and being able to skillfully work with it is a must. Modeling data helps to predict and simulate potential investment outcomes, allowing for more informed decision-making. This question helps interviewers understand your ability to handle, interpret, and use data effectively in the context of investment decisions.

Start by detailing your hands-on experience with data modeling tools, focusing on the ones you mastered. Discuss specific instances where your analysis of complex data led to successful investment decisions. If you have any experiences where your data modeling skills made a big difference or gave unique insights, highlight those. Remember, it’s not just about technical knowledge but also how you’ve used that expertise for practical decision-making in investments.

Example: In my experience, data modeling has been an invaluable tool for making informed investment decisions. For instance, I once developed a predictive model to analyze the potential growth of companies in the tech sector. The model took into account various factors such as market trends, financial health, and competitive landscape. By applying this model, we were able to identify undervalued stocks with high growth potential that significantly outperformed the market.

This approach not only helped us make profitable investments but also reduced our risk exposure by providing a more comprehensive understanding of each company’s prospects. It allowed us to anticipate potential issues and adjust our strategies accordingly. Therefore, data modeling is integral to my investment decision-making process as it provides quantitative support to qualitative assessments, ensuring a balanced and well-informed strategy.

4. Explain the process you follow to conduct thorough due diligence on companies or industries before recommending investments.

This question aims to gauge your analytical abilities and the depth of your research skills. As an investment professional, you’re expected to make informed decisions based on comprehensive and accurate research. This means not just understanding a company’s financials, but also the industry it operates in, its competitive landscape, and any potential risks or opportunities. A well-rounded due diligence process is key to successful investment strategies.

To answer this question, highlight your methodical approach to due diligence. Discuss how you analyze financial statements, conduct market and industry research, assess the company’s competitive positioning, and evaluate management teams. You might also mention any relevant tools or databases you use. If possible, give an example of a time when your thorough due diligence led to a successful investment decision. Remember, it’s not just about showing that you can do the work – it’s about demonstrating your commitment to making well-informed decisions.

Example: The process I follow for conducting due diligence on companies or industries begins with a comprehensive review of the company’s financial statements. This includes analyzing key metrics such as earnings, revenue growth, cash flow, and debt levels to understand the firm’s financial health. Additionally, I delve into the company’s business model, competitive positioning, and management team to assess its strategic position within the industry.

After this initial analysis, I conduct a thorough sector and market assessment to understand the broader context in which the company operates. This involves evaluating the industry’s growth prospects, competitive dynamics, regulatory environment, and potential risks. Finally, I utilize various valuation techniques like discounted cash flow (DCF) analysis, comparable company analysis, or precedent transaction analysis to determine the intrinsic value of the company. If the current market price is significantly below my calculated intrinsic value, it could indicate a potential investment opportunity.

To ensure objectivity and accuracy, I also cross-verify information from multiple sources including analyst reports, industry publications, news articles, and direct interactions with company representatives if possible. The goal is to build a holistic view of the company and its potential for future performance before making an investment recommendation.

5. How do you stay up-to-date with market trends, economic indicators, and regulatory changes that might impact your investment recommendations?

Staying informed about the latest market trends, economic indicators, and regulatory changes is a key responsibility for any investment professional. Understanding these factors helps analysts make sound investment recommendations and predict market movements more accurately. Therefore, interviewers ask this question to gauge your commitment to continuous learning and your ability to adapt to changing market conditions.

To impress your interviewer, highlight your commitment to continuous learning. Mention the financial news sources you regularly read, any relevant webinars or podcasts you follow, and professional networks you’re part of. You could also explain how you’ve adjusted investment strategies based on market trends or regulatory changes in the past. If you have experience using specific analytical tools to track these changes, mention that as well. It’s crucial to show that you can adapt your recommendations according to evolving circumstances.

Example: I stay up-to-date with market trends, economic indicators, and regulatory changes by leveraging a combination of resources. Firstly, I subscribe to financial news outlets such as Bloomberg, The Wall Street Journal, and Financial Times for daily updates on global markets and economies. These provide me with an overview of the current state of affairs and potential shifts in the investment landscape.

Furthermore, I use platforms like FactSet and Bloomberg Terminal to analyze data and monitor key economic indicators. This allows me to understand the underlying factors driving market movements and make informed predictions about future trends. Additionally, I regularly attend webinars and industry conferences to gain insights from leading experts and keep abreast of evolving regulations that could impact my investment strategies.

Finally, I participate in professional networks where I can engage in discussions with peers and thought leaders. This not only provides different perspectives but also helps me stay aware of emerging themes or disruptions that might not be covered extensively in mainstream media yet. By combining these methods, I ensure that my investment recommendations are based on comprehensive and up-to-date information.

6. Describe your experience working with quantitative models to assess risk and return trade-offs.

Understanding the use of quantitative models in assessing risk and return trade-offs is a key component of many roles in the financial industry. Your ability to navigate these models can demonstrate your analytical skills, your understanding of market dynamics, and your ability to make informed decisions. The interviewer wants to see that you can leverage data-driven insights to make strategic investment recommendations, a critical skill in a high-stakes financial environment.

In your response, highlight instances where you’ve utilized quantitative models to evaluate risk and return trade-offs. Illustrate how these tools have helped in making informed financial decisions. If you are new to this, discuss your understanding of the concept and readiness to learn fast. Ensure to show your analytical skills and attention to risk management as they’re crucial for this role.

Example: During my tenure at a global investment firm, I was heavily involved in the development and application of quantitative models for risk and return trade-offs. One project that stands out is when we were assessing potential investments in emerging markets. We utilized Markowitz’s Modern Portfolio Theory to optimize our portfolio by calculating expected returns based on historical data and then used standard deviation as a measure of risk.

We also incorporated Black-Litterman model to incorporate our views about specific market conditions. This approach allowed us to adjust the model according to our expectations rather than relying solely on historical data. Additionally, we performed stress tests and scenario analyses to evaluate how different economic events might impact our portfolio. These rigorous techniques helped us make informed decisions while balancing potential returns against associated risks.

This experience not only honed my skills in using sophisticated financial modeling tools but also deepened my understanding of the intricate dynamics between risk and return. It taught me the importance of constantly validating and updating these models to reflect changing market conditions and ensure they continue to serve as reliable decision-making tools.

7. How familiar are you with using programming languages such as Python or R for analyzing financial data? Provide an example of a project where you used these skills.

Understanding and using programming languages, especially ones as widely used as Python or R, is a critical skill in the financial industry. These languages are often used to analyze large sets of financial data and generate insights that can be used to make informed investment decisions. By asking this question, hiring managers are looking for evidence of your technical skills and your ability to apply them to real-world financial scenarios.

Highlight your proficiency in Python or R, and provide a detailed example of a past project where you employed these skills for financial analysis. Discuss the process, challenges faced, how you overcame them, and the results achieved. If you’re less experienced, stress your eagerness to learn and adaptability with new technologies.

Example: I am quite proficient in using Python and R for financial data analysis. I have used these programming languages extensively to build models, conduct statistical analyses, and generate insights from complex datasets. For instance, during a recent project, I was tasked with predicting future stock prices for a select group of companies.

Using Python’s Pandas library, I first cleaned and organized the raw historical price data obtained from an API. Then, I employed scikit-learn to create machine learning models, specifically focusing on linear regression and decision tree regressors. Furthermore, I leveraged Python’s Matplotlib and Seaborn libraries for visualizing trends and patterns in the data which helped me understand the underlying relationships better. The model successfully predicted future prices with reasonable accuracy, providing valuable insights for investment decisions. This experience not only honed my skills but also highlighted the significance of leveraging programming languages for financial data analysis.

8. Walk us through the process of creating an equity research report from start to finish.

This question is designed to gauge your understanding of the entire research process, your ability to communicate complex financial concepts, and your attention to detail. It’s not just about knowing how to do the research and analysis, but also about showing that you can write a clear, concise report that will be useful to decision-makers. This will include understanding the company, its competitive landscape, and financial performance, and using this information to make informed projections and recommendations.

Start by discussing your initial research phase, where you’d examine the company’s financial statements and compare it to competitors. Then, mention how you’d conduct a strategic analysis, assessing the market landscape and the company’s position within it. Explain how you develop financial models for future projections and determine the stock’s intrinsic value. Finally, talk about compiling your insights into a comprehensive report with clear investment recommendations. Remember to highlight your analytical skills, attention to detail, and ability to communicate complex information succinctly.

Example: Creating an equity research report begins with selecting a company and gathering as much information about it as possible. This involves reviewing financial statements, SEC filings, earnings releases, conference call transcripts, and any relevant news or industry reports. The goal is to gain a deep understanding of the company’s business model, its competitive position within its industry, its growth prospects, and any potential risks.

The next step is to perform a financial analysis. This includes building financial models to project future revenues, expenses, and profits, and calculating key financial ratios. It also involves comparing the company’s performance against that of its peers. Once this analysis is complete, I would form an investment thesis based on my findings.

Finally, the report itself needs to be written in a clear and concise manner. It should include an executive summary, a detailed description of the company and its industry, a discussion of the financial analysis, the investment thesis, and a recommendation (buy, sell, or hold). After drafting, the report will undergo several rounds of review and revision before it is finalized and published.

9. Can you explain the concept of alpha generation and its importance for a firm like Point72?

When it comes to investment firms, the concept of alpha generation is paramount. This term refers to the ability to achieve returns above the market average, or “beating the market.” The question gauges your understanding of investment strategies and your ability to generate superior returns. This is critical because the ultimate goal of any investment firm is to maximize profits and provide superior returns to their clients. It also shows your potential ability to contribute to the firm’s success.

Alpha generation refers to the excess returns a strategy can generate, beyond what’s expected from market movements. For a firm like the one you’re applying for, alpha is crucial as it reflects their ability to outperform the market through superior insights and decision-making. Discuss your understanding of this concept, how you’ve applied it in past roles, and its importance in asset management. Highlight any experiences where your actions contributed to alpha generation.

Example: Alpha generation refers to the process of creating excess returns over a benchmark, typically through active trading strategies. It’s essentially a measure of an investment strategy’s ability to beat the market or its risk-adjusted performance. For a firm like Point72, alpha generation is crucial as it directly impacts the firm’s profitability and reputation in the competitive hedge fund industry.

The importance of alpha can be illustrated by considering two funds with similar overall returns. If one achieves these returns by closely tracking a broad market index (beta), while the other consistently outperforms the index after adjusting for risk (alpha), the latter would be considered more skillful. This is because generating alpha requires accurate forecasting, astute stock selection, and effective risk management. Hence, at Point72, portfolio managers who can generate consistent alpha are highly valued as they contribute significantly to the firm’s success.

10. How have you utilized machine learning algorithms to improve your investment strategies or predictions?

Machine learning is a vital tool in the modern financial industry. It’s not just about crunching numbers anymore, it’s about using sophisticated algorithms to digest and analyze complex data sets and draw meaningful conclusions from them. Prospective hires need to demonstrate that they can leverage these cutting-edge technologies to make more accurate and profitable investment decisions. This question is asked to assess your ability to use technology to enhance the decision-making process in financial investments.

When answering this question, discuss specific instances where you utilized machine learning algorithms in your past roles to enhance investment strategies. Highlight the steps you took from data collection to implementing the algorithm and how it positively impacted decision-making or profitability. If you haven’t directly used machine learning before, express your understanding of its importance and eagerness to learn and apply these techniques. Remember to mention any relevant courses or certifications that demonstrate your technical skills.

Example: In my experience, machine learning algorithms have been instrumental in enhancing the robustness of my investment strategies. For instance, I’ve used unsupervised learning techniques such as K-means clustering to categorize stocks into distinct groups based on their historical price movements and fundamental indicators. This allowed me to identify patterns and correlations that were not immediately apparent, leading to more informed asset allocation decisions.

Additionally, I’ve also employed supervised learning methods like Random Forests and Gradient Boosting for predictive modeling. By training these models on a vast dataset comprising various macroeconomic factors, financial ratios, and market sentiment indicators, I was able to generate accurate forecasts of stock prices. These predictions played a key role in timing the market and optimizing portfolio returns while minimizing risk. The iterative nature of machine learning further ensured that the model’s performance improved over time by continually learning from new data and adjusting its parameters accordingly.

11. Discuss your experience managing a portfolio of assets and describe your approach to asset allocation.

Understanding your approach to asset management and allocation is critical for any firm in the financial industry. The question is designed to assess your capacity to balance risk and reward, make strategic decisions, and maximize returns. It also provides insight into your analytical abilities, understanding of financial markets, and your adaptability to changing market conditions.

To answer this effectively, focus on your past experiences and results in managing assets. Discuss strategic decisions you made regarding asset allocation, emphasizing how you balanced risk with potential returns. Talk about specific strategies or financial models you used while making these decisions. Remember to highlight any success stories where your asset management led to significant growth. If you’re less experienced, discuss theoretical approaches you would use based on your knowledge of finance and investment principles.

Example: In my experience managing a portfolio of assets, I have always emphasized diversification and risk management. My approach to asset allocation is grounded in the principles of Modern Portfolio Theory, which suggests that an optimal portfolio can be constructed by considering the correlation between different assets. For instance, during periods of market volatility, I’ve found it beneficial to hold a mix of both defensive and cyclical stocks to balance out potential losses.

I also believe in strategic rebalancing to maintain the desired level of risk and return. I regularly review the performance of each asset within the portfolio and make adjustments as needed based on changes in market conditions or the investment outlook. For example, if one asset class has performed particularly well and now represents a larger portion of the portfolio than initially intended, I may reduce our holdings in that area and reallocate those funds to underweighted sectors. This disciplined approach helps ensure we are not overly exposed to any single asset class and allows us to capitalize on opportunities as they arise.

12. Have you ever faced any ethical dilemmas while working on investment projects? If so, how did you handle them?

Ethics are a cornerstone of the investment industry. When working with large amounts of money and sensitive information, it’s essential to have a strong moral compass. This question gives the employer a chance to assess your integrity and decision-making skills. If you have faced an ethical dilemma, your response will reveal how you handle conflict, whether you’re willing to stand up for what’s right, and how you navigate the gray areas that often appear in the world of finance.

Start by acknowledging the importance of ethics in investment roles. Reflect on your past experiences, and if you have encountered an ethical dilemma, discuss how you handled it, focusing on your decision-making process, steps taken to address the issue, and lessons learned from it. If you haven’t faced such a situation, explain that while you’ve been fortunate not to encounter this, you are prepared to handle such situations with integrity, transparency, and adherence to regulations.

Example: Yes, I have faced ethical dilemmas in my career. In one instance, while working on an investment project, we were presented with the opportunity to invest in a company that had very promising financials and growth prospects. However, upon further research, it was discovered that this company had questionable labor practices overseas.

This posed an ethical dilemma because, as an investor, our primary goal is to generate returns for our clients. But at the same time, we also have a responsibility to ensure that our investments are not contributing to unethical or harmful practices.

In response to this situation, I initiated a discussion within our team about the issue. We decided to engage with the company directly to understand their perspective and see if they had plans to address these issues. When they failed to provide satisfactory answers, we chose not to proceed with the investment despite its potential profitability. This experience reinforced my belief that ethics should not be compromised for profits, and long-term success requires responsible investing.

13. Explain the difference between bottom-up and top-down investing approaches and which one you prefer.

Investment firms are keen to understand your approach to investing and how you analyze opportunities. A bottom-up approach focuses on the analysis of individual stocks and their specific characteristics, while a top-down approach first considers macroeconomic factors before identifying the industries and companies that could benefit from those trends. Your preference could indicate whether you’re more of a big-picture thinker or a detail-oriented analyst.

Begin by defining the two investment approaches. Bottom-up investing focuses on individual company analysis, while top-down involves analyzing broader economic factors first before selecting specific sectors or companies to invest in. Share examples of when you’ve used both strategies and discuss their pros and cons. Then, express your preference for either approach but ensure to justify why, highlighting how this strategy aligns with your investment philosophy and has achieved positive results in the past. If possible, relate it back to the firm’s investment style.

Example: The primary difference between bottom-up and top-down investing approaches lies in the starting point of analysis. Bottom-up investing begins with a focus on individual companies, evaluating their fundamentals without much consideration for macroeconomic conditions or industry trends. It’s akin to picking stocks based purely on the strength of the company itself. On the other hand, top-down investing starts with an analysis of the overall economy, then moves down to sectors or industries, and finally to individual companies within those sectors.

Personally, I prefer a blend of both approaches. While it is crucial to understand the broader economic context in which a company operates, it is equally important to evaluate the specific financials and strategic positioning of each firm. For instance, during the pandemic, a top-down approach would have highlighted the potential growth in the technology sector due to increased remote work. However, a bottom-up analysis would be necessary to identify which specific tech firms were best positioned to capitalize on this trend, perhaps by having robust cloud infrastructure or collaboration tools. By combining both methods, one can make a more informed investment decision.

14. How comfortable are you presenting complex financial information to non-finance professionals within the organization?

Breaking down complex information into digestible bits is a key skill for anyone working in finance. Not everyone will have the same level of understanding and comfort with financial data. Thus, it’s essential to know how to present these details in a way that is easily understood by all, regardless of their background. This question is designed to gauge your communication skills, your ability to simplify complex information, and your capacity to bridge the gap between finance and other departments.

Consider your experiences where you’ve had to simplify complex financial data for those without a finance background. Highlight your understanding of the importance of clear communication and discuss any methods or tools you’ve used in the past to make information more accessible. This could include visual aids, analogies, or simplifying jargon. If you haven’t done this before, suggest strategies you would use based on your knowledge of effective communication techniques.

Example: I am very comfortable presenting complex financial information to non-finance professionals. In my experience, the key is to simplify the data and focus on its relevance to the audience’s role or department. For instance, I once had to present a detailed budget forecast to a team of marketing professionals. Instead of overwhelming them with numbers and jargon, I focused on how their campaigns’ performance could impact our overall budget and what changes we could expect in the future based on different scenarios. This approach not only made the information more digestible but also facilitated a productive discussion about aligning our financial and marketing strategies.

Moreover, I believe that visual aids can be incredibly helpful when explaining complex concepts. Pie charts, graphs, and diagrams can often convey a message much more effectively than words alone. Therefore, I always try to incorporate these tools into my presentations whenever possible. By doing so, I’ve found that people are not only able to understand the information better, but they’re also more engaged during discussions.

15. Describe a situation where you disagreed with a coworker’s investment recommendation. How did you address this disagreement?

This question is a way of probing your ability to critically assess investment strategies and your interpersonal skills when dealing with colleagues. It’s important to demonstrate that you can respectfully disagree with others and work towards a constructive resolution. It’s also an opportunity to show that you can stand by your convictions when it comes to making sound investment decisions, even if your view is unpopular.

Start by emphasizing your respect for diverse opinions and collaborative problem-solving. Share a specific instance where you disagreed with a coworker’s investment recommendation, focusing on how you communicated your differing viewpoint professionally and constructively. Highlight your use of data or analysis to support your perspective, and explain the outcome, particularly if it led to a beneficial result. This will show that you can handle disagreements productively while maintaining strong team relationships.

Example: In my previous experience, I was part of a team that was evaluating an investment in a tech startup. One of my colleagues strongly recommended the investment based on the company’s innovative product and its potential market impact. However, after conducting my own analysis, I disagreed with this recommendation.

While I acknowledged the innovation of the product, I found several red flags during my due diligence process. The startup had inconsistent financials, a high burn rate, and a highly competitive market landscape. I believed these factors posed significant risks to our potential return on investment. To address this disagreement, I communicated my findings to the team and presented my analysis supporting my perspective. We engaged in a healthy debate, weighing the pros and cons of the investment opportunity. Ultimately, we decided not to proceed with the investment. This situation taught me the importance of thorough research and open communication within a team when making investment decisions.

16. Can you provide an example of a challenging problem you have encountered during your work as a researcher and how you resolved it?

This question is designed to assess your problem-solving skills and your ability to overcome obstacles in a research setting. By asking for a specific example, the hiring team wants to understand how you approach complex issues, your thought process, and how effectively you can implement solutions. The answer you provide can reveal a lot about your analytical, critical thinking, and decision-making abilities, which are key in any research role.

When answering this question, share an instance when you faced a complex research problem and outline the steps you took to overcome it. Highlight your analytical skills, resourcefulness, and perseverance. Discuss how you used various research methods or tools, collaborated with others, or sought guidance from experts. Always conclude with the positive outcome that resulted from your actions, like gaining valuable insights or successfully completing a project.

Example: During my time as a researcher, I was tasked with developing an algorithm to predict stock market trends based on historical data. One of the most challenging aspects was dealing with the sheer volume and complexity of the data. The initial models were not providing accurate predictions due to overfitting.

To resolve this issue, I decided to implement feature selection techniques to reduce dimensionality and improve model performance. This involved conducting correlation analysis between different variables, using methods like Principal Component Analysis (PCA) for numerical data, and Chi-Square test for categorical data. Furthermore, I also employed cross-validation during the training phase to prevent overfitting.

The result was a more robust and accurate predictive model. It was a complex problem that required both strong analytical skills and creative thinking, but ultimately it reinforced the importance of thorough data preprocessing and feature engineering in machine learning projects.

17. How do you ensure data quality and accuracy when working with large datasets?

This question is pivotal as it seeks to understand your attention to detail and your capability to maintain data integrity, which is essential in any data-driven organization. The ability to handle large datasets accurately is a skill that’s highly valued, as it directly impacts the quality of insights derived from the data and subsequent decision-making. Your answer will indicate your proficiency in data handling and your commitment to delivering reliable and precise results.

When answering this question, focus on your attention to detail and systematic approach towards data management. Discuss the techniques you use like double-checking data entry, utilizing software for error detection, and conducting regular audits of the data. Also mention how you stay updated with best practices in maintaining high-quality data. If possible, give examples where these strategies helped avoid potential errors or improved data accuracy in previous roles.

Example: Ensuring data quality and accuracy when working with large datasets is a multi-step process. First, it begins with the collection of data where I ensure that the sources are credible and reliable. Then, during the data cleaning phase, I use tools like Python’s Pandas library or R to identify any inconsistencies, outliers, missing values, or duplicate entries. This step is crucial as it can significantly impact the results of any analysis done on the dataset.

In addition, I also implement validation rules and checks at various stages of the data processing pipeline. These could be simple range checks for numerical data or more complex business rules for categorical data. Furthermore, I believe in maintaining good documentation about the data and its transformations. It helps improve transparency and makes it easier to track down potential issues. Lastly, using robust ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes and automating these steps wherever possible ensures consistency and reduces the chance of human error.

18. Describe a time when you had to adapt quickly to new technology or software tools in order to complete a project successfully.

The rapidly evolving nature of technology today means that companies need employees who can quickly adapt to new tools and technologies. Therefore, your ability to learn new technology and integrate it into your workflow is an essential skill. This question gives you an opportunity to demonstrate that you are not only tech-savvy, but also agile and adaptable in fast-paced, dynamic environments.

Start by sharing a specific instance where you had to learn new technology or software swiftly. Discuss the situation, what actions you took and the positive outcome achieved due to your adaptability. Highlight your quick learning ability, problem-solving skills and how you remain calm under pressure. If you’ve ever trained others on new tech tools, consider mentioning that as it shows leadership and communication skills.

Example: In my previous experience, I was working on a project that required the analysis of large datasets. The team had been using Excel but it became clear that this tool wasn’t robust enough to handle the volume and complexity of data we were dealing with. To address this issue, I took the initiative to learn how to use Tableau, a powerful data visualization and business intelligence software.

I spent evenings and weekends familiarizing myself with Tableau’s features and capabilities through online tutorials and practice. Within two weeks, I was able to integrate Tableau into our workflow and trained my team members on its basic usage. This not only improved our efficiency but also enabled us to derive more meaningful insights from the data. The project was completed successfully and ahead of schedule, which I attribute largely to our quick adaptation to the new technology.

19. How do you prioritize multiple projects and deadlines, especially when faced with competing demands from team members or stakeholders?

The essence of this question stems from the reality of fast-paced, high-stakes business environments. It’s critical to know how potential hires manage their time and resources when multiple tasks demand their attention. The ability to prioritize effectively not only speaks to an individual’s organizational skills but also their capacity to think strategically, make sound decisions under pressure, and ultimately deliver quality results within set timelines.

Start by highlighting your excellent organizational skills. Discuss how you use tools like calendars, task management software or simply to-do lists to keep track of deadlines and ensure everything is completed on time. Show that you understand the importance of setting priorities based on project urgency, complexity, and stakeholder expectations. Mention instances where you had to negotiate timelines due to competing demands, demonstrating your ability to communicate effectively and manage expectations efficiently.

Example: Prioritizing multiple projects and deadlines is a common challenge, particularly in fast-paced environments like Point72. I approach this by first understanding the scope, urgency, and impact of each project. This involves communicating with stakeholders to clarify expectations and align on priorities. For instance, if two projects have similar deadlines but one has a higher business impact or strategic importance, that will take precedence.

Next, I use project management tools to organize tasks, set timelines, and monitor progress. This not only helps me stay on top of my workload, but also provides transparency for team members and stakeholders. If conflicting demands arise, I revisit the initial priorities, reassess based on current information, and renegotiate deadlines if necessary. The key is maintaining open communication and flexibility while staying focused on delivering high-quality results.

20. Explain your approach to measuring the performance of an investment portfolio using key performance indicators (KPIs).

Understanding how to measure the performance of an investment portfolio using KPIs is essential in making sound financial decisions. Employers want to know that you’re capable of interpreting these data points and using them strategically. By asking this question, they’re assessing your ability to identify relevant indicators, understand their significance, and apply this knowledge to optimize portfolio performance.

Highlight your understanding and application of key metrics like return on investment (ROI), net asset value (NAV), or benchmark comparison. Discuss how you’ve used these indicators to assess portfolio performance in the past, stressing your ability to interpret data and make informed decisions. If new to the role, explain how you would use these KPIs. Show enthusiasm for continued learning in this area.

Example: My approach to measuring the performance of an investment portfolio involves using a combination of KPIs that provide both a broad and detailed view of the portfolio’s health. Some of these indicators include absolute return, relative return, risk-adjusted return, drawdown, and alpha.

For instance, absolute return gives us a straightforward measure of how much money the portfolio has made or lost over a given period. However, this doesn’t tell us how well we’re doing compared to the market or our peers, which is where relative return comes in. It compares our portfolio’s performance against a benchmark index to gauge if we are outperforming or underperforming the market.

Risk-adjusted returns like Sharpe ratio or Sortino ratio are crucial as they take into account the risk taken to achieve those returns. A high Sharpe ratio indicates better portfolio performance on a risk-adjusted basis. Drawdown helps us understand the peak-to-trough decline during a specific record period of an investment, indicating capital preservation capability. Lastly, Alpha measures the excess return of the portfolio over the benchmark, reflecting the value added by active management. By analyzing these KPIs collectively, we can get a comprehensive understanding of the portfolio’s performance from different angles.

21. Describe your experience working with financial data APIs, such as Bloomberg or FactSet, to gather information for research purposes.

Diving into the sea of financial data requires a proficient swimmer. That’s why this question is asked. Being comfortable with financial data APIs like Bloomberg or FactSet is quite essential for many finance-related roles. This experience demonstrates your ability to navigate complex data sets, extract relevant information, and subsequently use that data to drive research and make strategic decisions. It’s a critical skill that can set you apart in the competitive finance industry.

Highlight your proficiency with the mentioned APIs, focusing on specific tasks and projects you’ve completed. Discuss how you leveraged these tools to drive research and data analysis, resulting in actionable insights. If you haven’t used the exact APIs, mention equivalent ones you’re familiar with, emphasizing your ability to learn new systems swiftly. Finally, illustrate the value added to past employers through this skill set.

Example: In my experience, I’ve extensively used Bloomberg’s API for a variety of research projects. For instance, in one project, I was tasked with analyzing the performance of different asset classes across various economic cycles. Using Bloomberg’s API, I was able to pull historical price data, macroeconomic indicators, and other relevant financial information. This allowed me to build robust models that could accurately backtest investment strategies under different economic conditions.

Furthermore, I have also worked with FactSet’s API. In a particular project, I utilized it to gather company-specific data such as earnings reports, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. The comprehensive nature of this data enabled me to perform an in-depth fundamental analysis of several companies. By integrating these APIs into Python scripts, I automated the data gathering process which significantly increased efficiency and accuracy. Therefore, I am confident in my ability to leverage financial data APIs to support rigorous research efforts.

22. Can you discuss any specific industry sectors or geographies where you have developed deep expertise and how that has contributed to your success as an analyst?

In the dynamic realm of finance, having specialized knowledge can set you apart. This question is asked to gauge your depth of understanding in specific sectors or geographies, which can help to predict your potential success in the company. By showcasing your specialized expertise, you illustrate your ability to delve deep into a subject, grasp its nuances, and use that knowledge to make informed investment decisions. This ability to specialize and apply knowledge is a critical skill for an analyst.

To answer this question, reflect on areas where you’ve gained substantial knowledge and how this has aided your success. Be specific about the sectors or geographies, detailing the unique characteristics you had to understand. Highlight how this expertise facilitated better analysis, decision-making, or problem-solving in your roles. If there are relevant successes tied to these experiences, such as a successful investment or business strategy, be sure to mention them, linking back to your specialized knowledge.

Example: My deep expertise lies in the technology sector, particularly within software and cloud computing services. I have closely followed this industry for years, analyzing trends, financials, and growth strategies of key players like Microsoft, Amazon, AWS, and Google Cloud. This has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of their business models, competitive landscapes, and the factors that drive their revenue streams. My insights into these companies’ strategic initiatives, such as acquisitions or partnerships, allow me to make informed predictions about their future performance.

This expertise has contributed significantly to my success as an analyst. For instance, by identifying early signs of rapid adoption of cloud technologies due to digital transformation needs across various industries, I was able to recommend long positions on certain tech stocks before they outperformed market expectations. Additionally, my granular understanding of this sector enables me to identify potential risks, such as regulatory challenges or shifts in consumer behavior, which helps mitigate investment risk.

23. What strategies do you use to forecast market trends and identify potential investment opportunities during periods of economic uncertainty?

This question is designed to assess your knowledge of complex financial market dynamics and your ability to navigate them, especially during turbulent or unpredictable times. It’s about understanding your analytical skills, your ability to think critically, and your risk management approach. Furthermore, it gauges your proactive nature in finding investment opportunities even during challenging economic situations.

To answer this question effectively, focus on your analytical skills and how you use them to identify potential investment opportunities. Discuss the tools and methods you utilize for forecasting market trends such as fundamental analysis, technical analysis, or economic indicators. Also, share examples of how you’ve successfully navigated periods of economic uncertainty in the past, detailing the strategies used and results achieved. Remember to highlight your ability to stay resilient and make sound decisions under pressure.

Example: In periods of economic uncertainty, I rely on a mix of fundamental and technical analysis to forecast market trends and identify potential investment opportunities. Fundamental analysis involves evaluating the intrinsic value of an investment by examining related economic and financial factors including the overall economy, industry conditions, and the financial condition and management of companies. This approach helps me understand whether a company is undervalued or overvalued in the context of volatile markets.

On the other hand, technical analysis allows me to study statistical trends gathered from trading activity, such as price movement and volume. By analyzing historical data, I can identify patterns that may signify future activity. For instance, during a downturn, certain sectors like consumer staples or healthcare tend to be more resilient, hence they might present attractive investment opportunities. Additionally, I also pay attention to macroeconomic indicators such as GDP growth rates, inflation, interest rates, and unemployment levels, which can provide insight into the broader economic environment and help predict future market movements.

24. Have you ever collaborated on a cross-functional team to achieve better results? If so, please provide details about your role and the outcome.

Cross-functional teams involve members from different departments or areas of expertise coming together to achieve a common goal. This question is designed to determine your ability to collaborate effectively with a diverse group of people, understand and appreciate different perspectives, and contribute to the team’s success. The emphasis is not just on team collaboration, but also on your ability to influence positive outcomes—both critical skills in a dynamic, fast-paced work environment.

To answer this question, reflect on your past experiences where you’ve worked in a team consisting of different departments or functions. Highlight your specific role, how you contributed to the team’s objectives, and the final outcome. If you have not had such an experience, discuss how you would navigate such a situation. Emphasize communication, mutual respect, understanding everyone’s roles, and focusing on common goals for success.

Example: Yes, I have had the opportunity to work on a cross-functional team during my tenure at a previous firm. We were tasked with developing an innovative solution to streamline our client reporting process. As part of this project, I worked closely with colleagues from IT, compliance, and operations.

My role was to represent the investment team’s perspective and ensure that the new system would meet our needs in terms of data accuracy, timeliness, and presentation quality. This required me to clearly communicate our requirements to non-investment professionals and understand their constraints and suggestions as well.

The outcome was highly successful: we reduced the time spent on generating reports by 30%, improved the accuracy of our data, and received positive feedback from clients on the enhanced clarity and comprehensibility of our reports. This experience underscored for me the value of diverse perspectives and collaborative problem-solving.

25. What motivates you to work in the highly competitive field of finance and investing at a firm like Point72?

This question is designed to delve into your passion for the fast-paced, challenging world of finance and investing. The interviewer wants to understand if you’re driven by the excitement of market fluctuations, the strategic thinking involved in investment decisions, or the satisfaction of helping clients grow their wealth. Your answer will help them assess whether your motivation aligns with the firm’s culture and objectives, and if you have the resilience and determination to succeed in a demanding environment.

To answer this question effectively, reflect on what truly drives you within the finance and investing field. Whether it’s the thrill of analysis, the satisfaction in helping a business grow financially or personal growth through challenging situations. Connect your passion for finance to how it would benefit the firm. Perhaps mention a previous achievement that was fueled by these motivations. Be authentic and enthusiastic, showing that you’re not only prepared for the competitive environment but also excited about it.

Example: I am motivated by the constant challenge and intellectual rigor that comes with working in finance, particularly in a firm like Point72. The financial markets are dynamic and unpredictable, which requires continuous learning and adaptation. I thrive on this kind of environment because it pushes me to constantly expand my knowledge base and hone my analytical skills. Furthermore, being able to contribute to strategic investment decisions that can potentially yield significant returns is incredibly rewarding.

Additionally, what sets Point72 apart for me is its commitment to innovation and technology-driven investing strategies. In an industry where minute differences can have substantial impacts, utilizing advanced technologies and data analytics to gain an edge is crucial. I am excited about the prospect of leveraging these tools to uncover unique insights and drive investment performance. This combination of intellectual stimulation and the opportunity to work at the forefront of investment strategy truly motivates me.

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20 Point72 Interview Questions and Answers

Prepare for the types of questions you are likely to be asked when interviewing for a position at Point72.

point 72 cover letter

As a leading global investment firm, Point72 is always looking for talented individuals to join their team. If you’re lucky enough to score an interview with this company, you can expect to be asked some tough questions.

In this article, we’ll give you a rundown of some of the most common Point72 interview questions, so you can go into your interview prepared and confident.

Point72 Interview Process

The interview process at Point72 can be long and difficult, with multiple rounds of interviews and testing. The first round is usually a written test, followed by a case study. For the final round, candidates may have to do a presentation or pitch a stock. The whole process can take up to two weeks.

  • How would you define a hedge fund?
  • Tell me about your understanding of the capital markets.
  • What is an event-driven strategy and how does it impact the market?
  • How do you think technology will change financial markets in the next five years?
  • Why do you want to work at Point72?
  • Give us an example of a time where a trade did not go as expected, how did you handle it?
  • What type of investment strategies interest you most?
  • Do you have experience using Bloomberg terminals?
  • What are some things that you look for when analyzing a stock?
  • How often do you check news updates on stocks that you own?
  • Are you comfortable working with clients or customers?
  • Do you have any experience creating models?
  • What has been your favorite class so far?
  • In what ways can you contribute to our team’s success?
  • If we were to ask one of your professors about you, what would they say?
  • Have you ever worked under pressure? Describe a time when you had to perform under pressure.
  • Can you tell us about a time when you disagreed with someone and how you handled it?
  • When was the last time you lost money on an investment? How much money did you lose?
  • We like to hire people who are quick learners. Give an example of a time when you learned something quickly.
  • Which three qualities are important to be successful in this industry?

1. How would you define a hedge fund?

Point72 is a hedge fund, so the interviewer may want to know how you define this term. Your answer should include your definition of a hedge fund and also why it’s important for Point72 to be one.

Example: “A hedge fund is an investment vehicle that uses multiple strategies to generate returns in any market conditions. It can invest in stocks, bonds, commodities or currencies, but its main goal is to protect investors from losses. This is because hedge funds are private investments, which means they’re not regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). They don’t have to disclose their performance data either.”

2. Tell me about your understanding of the capital markets.

This question is a great way to test your knowledge of the financial markets and how they work. You can use this opportunity to show that you have an in-depth understanding of the capital markets, including their history, current trends and future outlooks.

Example: “The capital markets are where investors buy and sell stocks, bonds, commodities and other securities. The U.S. capital market is one of the largest in the world, with over $50 trillion worth of assets traded every year. I understand that the capital markets are constantly changing, so it’s important for me to stay up-to-date on any new developments or regulations.”

3. What is an event-driven strategy and how does it impact the market?

Point72 invests in event-driven strategies, which are a type of investment that depends on an upcoming event to make money. An interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience with event-driven strategies and how they can impact the market. In your answer, try to explain what an event-driven strategy is and why it impacts the market.

Example: “Event-driven strategies involve investing in companies based on upcoming events. For example, I worked at a hedge fund where we invested in stocks before mergers and acquisitions were announced. This strategy impacted the market because when we made investments based on these events, other investors would follow our lead and also invest in those stocks.”

4. How do you think technology will change financial markets in the next five years?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the financial industry and how you can apply it to future trends. Use examples from your own experience or research to explain how technology has already changed the financial market, and what you think will happen in the next five years.

Example: “I believe that technology will continue to change financial markets in the next five years. For example, I have seen a lot of growth in robo-advisors, which are online investment advisors that use algorithms to manage client portfolios. These services are becoming more popular because they’re easy to use and offer low fees. In my last role, we used robo-advisors for our clients who wanted to invest but didn’t want to spend time researching their options.”

5. Why do you want to work at Point72?

This question is a great way to show your interest in the company and its values. It also allows you to talk about what attracted you to this role, which can be helpful if you are applying for multiple positions at Point72.

Example: “I want to work at Point72 because I am passionate about investing and believe that it’s important to invest ethically. Your firm has an excellent reputation for doing so, and I would love to be part of that team. I have always been interested in finance, and I think working here would allow me to use my skills to make a positive impact on the world.”

6. Give us an example of a time where a trade did not go as expected, how did you handle it?

This question is an opportunity to show your problem-solving skills and ability to learn from mistakes. When answering this question, it can be helpful to highlight a specific situation where you were able to overcome challenges or obstacles.

Example: “In my last role as a portfolio manager, I was responsible for managing multiple accounts that included both long-term and short-term trades. One of the accounts I managed had a large position in one company’s stock, which resulted in a significant loss when the company announced layoffs. While I was disappointed with the outcome, I learned from the experience and adjusted my strategy so that similar situations would not occur again.”

7. What type of investment strategies interest you most?

Point72 invests in multiple asset classes and strategies, so the interviewer wants to know which ones you’re most interested in. This helps them understand if your interests align with Point72’s investment strategy.

Example: “I’m very passionate about emerging markets because I believe they have a lot of potential for growth. I also enjoy investing in small-cap stocks because there are always opportunities to find undervalued companies that can grow into large corporations. Finally, I like value investing because it allows me to find companies that are trading at low prices but still have strong fundamentals.”

8. Do you have experience using Bloomberg terminals?

Point72 uses Bloomberg terminals to monitor financial markets and make investment decisions. If you’re interviewing for a role that requires using Bloomberg, it’s important to show the interviewer that you have experience with this software.

Example: “I’ve used Bloomberg in my previous roles as an analyst and portfolio manager. I find it helpful to use Bloomberg to analyze market trends and compare different companies’ performance. It also helps me stay up-to-date on current events that may affect the financial markets.”

9. What are some things that you look for when analyzing a stock?

This question is a great way to see how you approach your work and what skills you use. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention specific strategies or methods that you use when analyzing stocks.

Example: “When looking at a stock, I first look at the company’s financial statements. This helps me understand their current situation and if they are in good standing. Next, I look at the balance sheet to see if there are any assets that may help them grow. Then, I look at the income statement to see if they have been making money consistently. Finally, I compare the company to others in its industry to see where it stands.”

10. How often do you check news updates on stocks that you own?

Point72 invests in multiple asset classes and strategies worldwide. The interviewer wants to know if you have experience with this type of investment strategy. Your answer should show that you understand the importance of keeping up-to-date on news about your investments.

Example: “I check my portfolio at least once a week, but I also subscribe to email alerts from financial websites so I can get updates when there are major changes in stock prices or company announcements. This helps me stay informed about any opportunities for growth.”

11. Are you comfortable working with clients or customers?

Point72 has a large client base, and the company wants to make sure you’re comfortable working with them. This question helps interviewers determine if you have experience interacting with clients or customers. Use your answer to highlight any previous customer service experience.

Example: “I’ve worked in sales for five years now, so I’m very familiar with how to interact with clients or customers. In my last position, I was responsible for managing our social media accounts and responding to comments and questions from followers. I also helped develop new marketing strategies that would attract more customers.”

12. Do you have any experience creating models?

Point72 uses models to analyze and predict market trends. This question helps the interviewer determine if you have experience with Point72’s modeling process. Use your answer to highlight any previous modeling experience or skills that may be transferable to this role.

Example: “I’ve used Excel for many years, so I’m familiar with creating formulas and functions. However, my last job required me to use a more advanced modeling software called MATLAB. It was challenging at first, but after some practice, I became proficient in using it. I can confidently say that I could apply what I learned from MATLAB to excel.”

13. What has been your favorite class so far?

Point72 is a large company that invests in multiple asset classes and strategies. The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your interests and passions, as well as how you might fit into Point72’s culture. When answering this question, try to be honest about what you enjoy studying the most while also showing enthusiasm for learning new things.

Example: “My favorite class so far has been my business ethics course. I’ve always had an interest in ethical behavior and wanted to know more about why people make certain decisions. In this class, we learned about different types of ethical dilemmas and discussed ways businesses can avoid these situations.”

14. In what ways can you contribute to our team’s success?

Point72 is a highly competitive workplace, and employees are expected to contribute to the company’s success. Your answer should show that you understand this expectation and have the skills necessary to succeed in your role.

Example: “I am an extremely hard worker who always strives for excellence. I know that Point72 has high expectations of its employees, so I’m prepared to work as many hours as it takes to get my job done. I also believe that teamwork is essential to success, so I will do whatever I can to support my colleagues. Finally, I am committed to learning new things and developing my skills, which means I’ll be open to feedback and suggestions.”

15. If we were to ask one of your professors about you, what would they say?

This question is a great way to learn more about the candidate’s academic background and how they’ve grown since their college days. It can also help you determine if they have any connections with Point72 that could be beneficial for your hiring process.

Example: “I had an accounting professor in my senior year who was very passionate about his work, which made it easy to pay attention in class. He would always tell us stories of his time working at different companies and what he learned from each experience. I think he would say that I’m a hard worker who pays attention in class and asks questions when I need clarification.”

16. Have you ever worked under pressure? Describe a time when you had to perform under pressure.

Point72 is a high-pressure environment, and the interviewer may ask this question to see how you handle pressure. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a time when you performed well under pressure and what helped you succeed.

Example: “I have worked in investment banking for five years now, and I’ve had many opportunities to work under pressure. In my previous role as an analyst, I was responsible for analyzing multiple companies at once. This meant that I often had tight deadlines to meet. However, I always made sure to prioritize my work so that I could complete it on time. I also learned to manage my stress levels by taking breaks throughout the day.”

17. Can you tell us about a time when you disagreed with someone and how you handled it?

Point72 is a company that values teamwork and collaboration. Your answer to this question can show the interviewer how you handle disagreements in the workplace. Use your answer to highlight your ability to collaborate with others, communicate effectively and solve problems creatively.

Example: “In my last role as an analyst, I disagreed with my supervisor about which stocks we should invest in. Instead of arguing with her, I presented my case for why I thought those stocks were good investments. She agreed to let me make the investment, and it turned out to be one of our best decisions. We learned that sometimes it’s better to disagree respectfully than to agree just to please someone.”

18. When was the last time you lost money on an investment? How much money did you lose?

Point72 is a highly competitive environment, and the interviewer wants to know how you react when things don’t go your way. Your answer should show that you can take constructive criticism and learn from it.

Example: “I once invested in a company that was doing well at first but then started losing money. I didn’t want to sell because I thought the stock would recover, so I held on for several months before selling at a loss of $10,000. It taught me to be more cautious about my investments.”

19. We like to hire people who are quick learners. Give an example of a time when you learned something quickly.

This question is a great way to show your ability to learn new things. Employers want people who can adapt and grow with their company, so it’s important to highlight how you’ve done this in the past.

Example: “When I first started working as an analyst, I was tasked with creating a financial model for a client. I had never created one before, but my manager helped me through the process. After that, I practiced making models on my own until I became comfortable with the process. Now, I’m able to create models quickly and efficiently.”

20. Which three qualities are important to be successful in this industry?

This question is a great way to show your knowledge of the industry and how you can apply it to this role. When answering, think about what qualities you have that make you successful in your current or past roles. Consider including these qualities in your answer.

Example: “I believe three qualities are important for success in this industry. The first quality is creativity. I find that many people in finance rely on tried-and-true methods, but sometimes we need to be more creative with our strategies. Being able to look at things from different angles helps me come up with new ideas and solutions. The second quality is communication. In my experience, being able to communicate effectively has helped me solve problems and achieve goals. I am always willing to listen to others’ opinions and provide feedback when appropriate. Finally, I think collaboration is an important quality. Collaboration allows us to work together toward common goals.”

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Point72 Interview Nightmare

BadatInterviews's picture

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A random LinkedIn recruiter reached out to me about Point72 I thought nothing of it but sent my resume. A few days later I had an interview with someone from business development.

They sent me a Wonderlic test and a 30 min modeling test. Within a few days I had interviews with two different PMs within Point72. 

PM #1 scheduled a one hour video interview with me and since I am in the office full time I took a vacation day to prepare and do the interview from home. There were a few technical questions but it was mainly about my motivations and he ended up sending me his case study. 

The case study was a Bear, Base, Bull projection on a public company with a DCF , Public Comps , LBO , and M&A model with an accompanying 25 page write-up. I had a week to complete it and went home for about 3 hours a day between working on this case study and my full-time job. Completely destroyed me but I was able to submit some pretty good work and not miss anything from my current job.

After a debrief going through the materials, PM #1 invites me to meet in person. At the same time I have another interview scheduled with PM #2. I take two additional vacation days, one to meet PM #1 and another to interview with PM #2, my current boss starts to get mad at me and realizes something is up. 

PM #1 says he will let me know soon and after an interview with PM #2 he sends me his case study. Also grueling, involves listening to 16 earnings calls and another full model. I spend another week not sleeping, we do the debrief and it also goes well. 

I've now done two 40+ hour case studies and taken 4 vacation days.

HR calls and says both PMs want to move me forward. The next step is meeting PM #2s team in the office. I can't take another vacation day so I pretend to have COVID. I meet PM #2s team and it goes well.

PM #1 calls me and says he is going to schedule 2 more interviews with me and senior people. If it goes well he will hire me, one of the happiest moments of my life, sad but true, unfortunately. 

HR asks for references, background check info, and salary expectations. My recruiter told me that $200k plus 100% bonus with a $25k signing bonus was median of their range for my experience. 

PM #2 wants me to get dinner and drinks with his team, I schedule one of my interviews with PM #1s senior person that day and keep pretending I have COVID, my boss is starting to get actually pissed but I don't care at this point. I keep imagining quitting my current job. 

PM #1 texts me and says great job with the first senior guy, one interview left for him.

Get dinner and drinks with PM #2 1 beer and 4 old fashioneds for each team member and me. Great time, could see myself working for either PM. 

My fake COVID is over so I take another actual vacation day for my last interview with PM #1's other senior guy.

He starts off by saying he can't find me on the roster for the sports team I was on at my college. I explain that I quit at the end of my first year so they removed me from the roster. He spends more time on it and I can tell he doesn't believe I ever made the team. Luckily someone who works there was on the team with me and I tell him that plus some other evidence. The entire interview is an accusatory tone, "why didn't you work full-time at the place you interned", etc. I'm prepared for these questions but was on my back foot. 

PM #1 calls me and says that there was a question as to whether I was on my college team and that I was too defensive when given feedback. He explains that I was vetoed by a senior guy and could not work for any PM. It was out of his hands. 

I stay on the phone for 30 mins explaining all the evidence that I was on the team and have my teammate who works there reach out to confirm. Doesn't matter. I was vetoed. 

I never hear from PM #2 again after having drinks with his team. 

HR calls and says that while this is the end of my current opportunity "the door at Point72 isn't closed forever" I say to delete my file and that this was absolutely unfair and ridiculous to veto someone for being too defensive to feedback when the feedback was utterly false.

I'm absolutely devastated. 

What do you all think?

what position was this for? The experienced academy program?

Don’t think the experienced academy pays anywhere close to 400k

streetghost - Certified Professional

Jesus. That sounds horrible.

To be honest, it seems like they were trying to pressure test you. Maybe they didn't like how defensive you were (maybe your tone was off)? The Why didn't you intern full-time? question def seemed like a pressure test. “Too defensive when given feedback” is obv not a good thing at a HF

BadatInterviews's picture

Honestly, you might be right. It's a tough spot because my view was that you have to really defend yourself when accused of lying. 

Maybe I should have said "you're right, that shouldn't be on my resume when I ended up quitting the team" but I think that opens up more of an ethical question mark.

When they said "The door at Point72 is not closed forever" that may confirm that the reason you weren't given the offer wasn't because of integrity (or else it would be closed forever). I'm only an incoming intern at HF , but I'm just offering my outside perspective.

idontknowken's picture

Devastating! Did you decide to stay in your current role? If yes, what do you think the dynamic and trust will be like with your boss going forward?

MMPM's picture

I think a full case study after only an hour's video interview is BS and shows these guys don't have a lot of respect for people's time.

I understand the heartbreak after all the time you put into this, but I think you did everything right here. Don't punish yourself and try to move on.

Last summer I applied to the academy program (London) and the first round was a case straight away, not even after a 30m interview.

udikammis-4130's picture

Did you end-up receiving an offer? My case study is due soon. Do you have any advise?

kodi's picture

My best friend from college interviewed with them and had a very similar interview experience. It was a thorough process, very detailed and with a case study, etc. demanding many hours put in for getting to the next interview stage. At the end, the questioned him for various aspects and challenged every answer he gave them. They didn't make an offer.

wwww1999's picture

how's your friend doing now? this must be tough

Thomas Pynchon - Certified Professional

I've heard a handful of somewhat similar stories with P72 and their hiring process. The other thing is they seem to love ghosting candidates. 

Point72's recruitment processes are and always have been absolute shit. I interviewed with one of their groups and it was a very similar experience -- tons of my investment on my end, multiple interviews, extensive case study that I killed myself to complete. Had multiple interviewers late / missing interviews altogether in the final superday , clear disregard for my time and fuck up on HR's end to schedule like this. Regardless, had really good interviews (with those that bothered to show up) and a few straight up said they were looking forward to having me join the team. HR then began a lengthy process of lying to me and jerking me around, telling me that I had the offer but that they needed time to process paperwork, encouraging me to get extensions elsewhere while they finished things up. They ended up ghosting me.

This is of course aside from their incredibly predatory academy program that fucks good new grads by fundamentally misrepresenting the program, the hedge fund industry , and the role. Have very little good to say about the firm, especially compared to how clean and transparent processes are run at Citadel , BAM, Exodus Point, and other competitors.  

why do you think the academy program is predatory? I have a hard time believing paying 200k+ to fresh grads to learn the industry is predatory. Seems like you just have a bad taste in your mouth

The academy team intentionally markets the program by shitting on the idea of banking analyst programs (do you really want to spend all day moving around powerpoint logos, etc.) then presents the academy as a way to bypass this process and immediately start a lucrative career picking stocks. Essentially, they tell kids that if they like the equity markets and want to invest in them, that the program is a perfect fit.

In doing so, they intentionally gloss over a bunch of nuances that the average college sophomore doesn't know: that the quantity and quality of hedge fund opportunities available to them after a reputable banking analyst program will be much  higher than after the academy program (and that there will definitely be Point72 seats available then too), that a significant minority of students completing the academy program literally won't get matched with a pm and then will be washed out of the firm with literally no work experience -- just nine months of classroom learning an incredibly niche skill. Who's gonna employ that person? The academy program recruiters don't bother explaining what it really means to work at a market neutral, factor neutral pod shop or about what jobs you could do after -- they don't explain how high turnover is or how much your comp, work / life, and culture will depend on a PM that might not have even been at the firm when you signed your academy offer. Ask any analyst at a multimanager -- really, any one of them -- if they would have committed to joining the firm without knowing who their PM would be. They will laugh at you. Again, these are all things we know as people that have been in the industry and have friends that have worked all over -- the academy program intentionally obfuscates these facts from kids -- that's why they're predatory   

I don't think you're familiar at all with the program. 90% of academy graduates were placed with a PM last year. Point72 has a vested interest in retaining them-logically, why pay 200k to teach a kid for a year and then want to kick them out? P72 is also known for having the highest retention and stability out of any MM (in contrast than Citadel or Millennium). If a PM at Point72 underperforms, the analysts are moved to another pod (especially if they went through the academy). Sounds like a lot of people are bitter they got rejected

It's clearly awful that the OP was treated this way, but I think you are painting too broad a brushstroke here:

1. I'm not convinced that the quality of HF seats on average is better post banking. Yes Point72 and the other pods aren't the best, but they are probably better than the 90% of low-capital SMs and ailing asset managers. I've seen exits to Tigers, SMs, places like capital group, and other pod shops- not amazing, but probably better than average. I was able to hunt down one guy on linkedin who went to a no-name , $100m fund, but that was from the first batch of academy grads. There are probably a few others who would "never" take a pod shop person, but unless you are gunning for a baupost or pershing square, the outcomes seem ok.

2. I've heard about people not getting placed past the Academy program, but cannot seem to find them on Linkedin. I don't mean to cast doubt, but am genuinely curious on what this significant minority is. I have also heard from analysts involved that the placement is 80-90+%(at least in the past 3 years). Considering how the Academy tends to take people with less traditional backgrounds, I think this is ok. Ofc, they could be biased, but IDK

3. This is a weird angle when it comes to the not knowing... I get that people are often unaware, but do you really think that they try to deceive people? I'd argue that the consulting firms and banks are far bigger culprits("day in the life of a Goldman sachs employee"), and are far more incentivized to do so.

Those places are sweatshops, so having people drink the kool-aid is important. No real risk is taken by hiring someone. In contrast hedge funds generally do not want to hire the wrong person because screwing up is so much more costly than the actual cost of hiring someone. Yes, they grind and push, but drinking the kool-aid is not to their advantage. Why would they want a growth equity bro with a "The TAM!" mindset, and way too much caffeine to influence a market-neutral, 5x levered portfolio?

I do think that there are other issues, such as having questionable culture, rep, and comp(I'd think of Tiger cubs vs Point72 as like Evercore / PJT vs Jefferies / RBC etc), but think that accusing them of crazy levels of deceptiveness is a bit much.

-just looking to have a conversation here

The academy team intentionally markets the program by shitting on the idea of banking analyst programs (do you really want to spend all day moving around  powerpoint  logos, etc.) then presents the academy as a way to bypass this process and immediately start a lucrative career picking stocks.

IB juniors tend to over-exaggerate the relevance of their job. Have a look at this thread: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/hedge-fund/2022-multi-manager-cit… . Of course the IB interns and 1st/second year analysts keep defending banking, but 4/4 hedge fund portfolio managers who commented recommended taking the Point72 Academy over GS /MS/ JPM IB .

All of you are missing the point. The problem is obviously they didn't like the op's defensiveness, not honesty. Requesting to “delete your file” when HR offered to consider you in the future confirms it. OP, have some humility

Almost every firm will say that

At that point, I felt like I'd rather have my complaint be taken seriously than take the less than 1% chance of actually being considered again. 

Thanks for the great insight, prospect in IB

musitall's picture

I think them saying they may consider him in the future is similar to how GS /MS tell every applicant they "recognize their outstanding work and will keep their file on hand in case any relevant position opens in the future" which is really a soft letdown for "not a fuckin' chance".

After the rigamarole they put him through, can't really expect any other response. However... that's the whole point. You have to suck it up and be polite and prove to them you are as cool as a cucumber and thank them for the opportunity just in case.

IDK. Very hard line to walk.

rabbit - Certified Professional

Sorry man, that really sucks.

The pretend to have COVID bit really cracked me up lmao.

Yeah just sounds like you failed the pressure tests where you're supposed to say "yeah I should've done this better..." in response to criticism.

Seniors at HFs are dicks when it comes to interviewing, who knew. If they actually decided not to take you in because of you not responding to a false statement perfectly, you wouldn't wanna work for them anyways.

dafftt's picture

While it seems you got treated bad, I am curious as to what you claimed on the resume with regard to your college level sports experience. It appears that may have set the stage for additional friction.

Sorry OP, that sucks and I have been through similar. Nearly twelve interviews with a name brand fund anyone would know which involved a week long case on an extremely complicated situation. Did well on the case, went on to interview with global heads / mgmt committee members and completed their background check and provided references. Couple weeks pass, get pinged by references they haven't heard anything. Inquire with firm, nothing. HH finally reaches out and said the firm had concerns with the case and decided to move on. Totally unbelievable, but shit happens. Unfortunately for you it sounds like you burned some goodwill at your current firm with the repeated days off and may have raised some red flags. However, seems you literally did about 99% of things right so I doubt you'll have a problem landing elsewhere. 

That sucks but we do only have 1 side of the story.

You could've majorly fucked up in the end and we have no way of knowing. 

ConfusedGuru - Certified Professional

Isn't point 72 run by a crook? I've only heard terrible things about them, and they don't even pay that well

GUHHHH's picture

didn’t OP say he was offered 400k for what seems like a relatively junior position? just curious what you think getting paid well means

That's great pay on an objective basis, but pretty standard for hedge fund junior offers. On the high-end would be high 6 fig or 7 fig salaries at one of the Tiger Cubs, and other quant funds like Citadel, DE Shaw , Two Sigma can easily match Point 72 offers but offer better prestige, better wlb (maybe not Citadel), and better benefits.

ProBono's picture

OP - I'm sorry that this process ended the way it did and think the reason they gave for not hiring you is pretty weak assuming there wasn't anything else that came up.

To offer some perspective as a current analyst at Point72, I can confirm the interview process is very drawn out (assume 8-10 interviews across a few months) and can definitely screw over the candidates who end up finishing 2nd or 3rd. The comments on the Academy are somewhat baked in truth but in reality most of the participants end up getting placed on great teams. Unfortunately, I have personally seen a few kids strike out and have to move back in with their parents since they're pigeonholed and not experienced enough to be competitive for other buyside openings at 22 y/o.

However, one of the comments above does make a good point about Point72 treating their analysts better than MLP or Citadel when it comes to internal replacement after a PM leaves or team blows up. The onerous hiring process involving interviews with multiple people outside of your team is a necessary evil to ensure that if something like this were to happen, then you could be placed onto another team internally relatively quickly. Point72 also has a pretty good track record of promoting their own analysts to PM if you can cut it and usually provide a longer leash compared to the other two MM's for what it's worth.

TLDR: Although it has its flaws, you could argue that Point72 is one the better places to start your career as an analyst given the resources your provided, internal hiring safety net, higher risk limits, and possible path to PM. The relative attractiveness of each MM definitely changes at the PM level but that's a separate conversation.

Thanks for the insight. Could you place a % number on how many from the academy end up placing? Have also heard it's been close to 90% in recent years. Also, how do academy graduates choose their pod? Is there a ranking of students in the academy, and top graduates get their pick first? Or are there multiple interviews with different PMs?

Have heard from recruiter it is near 90+% the kids that don’t take it often self select out

Don’t remember the exact number but a very high percentage (want to say it was 60%) of their analysts have been through the academy

ProBono Unfortunately, I have personally seen a few kids strike out and have to move back in with their parents since they're pigeonholed and not experienced enough to be competitive for other buyside openings at 22 y/o.

There can be no greater indictment of any new grad program than this one. The P72 academy program hiring process is rigorous and competitive -- the people that get these jobs are smart, hardworking kids that went to top schools, got top grades, and did top extracurriculars. The fact that the program can chew up a bright student with the work ethic and intelligence to land a brand name buyside job out of undergrad and leave them sitting on their parents couch, unemployable  is a huge, insurmountable red flag. 

Anchor - Certified Professional

Most of these guys have taken this course with some former intelligence people that train analysts on how to interview management teams. One of the tactics is to make a false accusation and see how the person reacts - I haven’t taken the course, but I thought someone told me mad was bad. I would suspect it was a pressure test - whether you failed or whether the interviewer didn’t execute well who’s to say - or maybe it just clicked well - I've been in a similar situation with a different multi-manger where they did an exorbitant and work-disruptive number of rounds and cases including an offer letter only to get nixed by the equities head on a seemingly obnoxious brain teaser. On the other hand these guys are professional hirer’s and who’s to say their process is wrong. I imagine the PM is as frustrated as you are which probably doesn’t make you feel better but I wouldn’t hold it against the one who didn’t follow up - there are a lot of rules about official-channels and what must go thru HR all that jazz. Keep at it - if you made it that round you’re competitive anywhere and can find the right fit.

Yeah, I heard the same. SAC Capital /Point72 hired former CIA agents to teach their PMs how to read body language/tone to detect lies. 

Screw those guys.

If getting mad over a false accusation is a red flag i don't want to work there.

Considering point 72 got to where it is today by being deceptive and doing illegal trades, they have no merit to play these stupid mind games.

OP, sorry to hear but welcome to the hedge fund world.  To start I did the same with brand name fund earlier in career, 5 phone interviews, full day on campus so on. Only to be told sorry some dude told head PM he didnt like your tie or so (personality clash). I had a decent amount of retained comp to consider so fine.

These firms need 100% buy-in cause reality is as you said TC is 400k and no way they letting you go before 2 years so that is a 800k commitment they are making and truly anyone who is average will survive two years easily. Next truly they are looking to hire people who will grow the firm one day, an 800k investment is nothing to sneeze at and one bad choice for a seat takes away from someone else. So understand this is why the process is lengthy and a bit crazy.

Now good part, this was your first time down the gaunlet. Understand your time is as important as theirs and you can always push back one stage another week or so, to not piss off your current boss. Many times these processes take weeks and months at times to be completed. So next time you are down the gauntlet prepare for a lengthy process.

The PM #1 sounds like they really like’d you and clearly you did well on the case studies. These firms are all sort of the same anyways, so losing out on this one doesn't mean you wont land next one. Many times you hear a firm has passed on a guy while years later they are somewhere else and former firm regrets it.

“TC is 400k and no way they letting you go before 2 years so that is a 800k commitment they are making and truly anyone who is average will survive two years easily. “

oh you sweet summer child

Haha…I get your point but truly 2 years is how long most people spend. That is not to say you are grinded to death, kicked in the head and basically after year 1 guarantee are already planning to move anyways.

apricots - Certified Professional

Jesus, so sorry. Immediate primal reaction..  honestly would want to beat the fuck outta the senior 

Will add one final note, in my experience interviewing with various shops most people in the HF do not act fake in the interview process. So if your initial reaction is "i would beat crap out of that guy" or "no way get rid of my resume". Then it is all for the best.

My guess this person treats the interviews the same way as a drawdown discussion, refactor, etc...

OP, you should delete this post. It is getting popular and has lots of self-identifying information. You do not want to get on the bad side of hr at a top MM HF . They know everyone.

Why shouldn't he shine a light on an opaque and negative experience? It's great for everyone else to learn from.

It's frankly a one-sided story. I would not be surprised if OP has a personality that the PM does not want to work with. Rigorous interviews and case studies are par for the course for this industry. At least HR called him to reject and didn't ghost like 90% of firms out there.

Quaneaser - Certified Professional

To those defending P72...you are seriously sick

By my count OP had:

- Wonderlic test 

- 30 min modeling test

- Two interviews with two PMs

- Follow-up 1 hour interview with PM 1

- Case study with a 25-page write-up

- Follow-up meeting in person with PM 1

- Follow-up meeting on separate day with PM 2

- ANOTHER case study with PM 2

- Meeting with PM 2's team in the office

- Follow-up meetings with PM 1's senior guys

- Dinner and drinks with PM 2's team (which we all know is an interview)

All of which with good feedback along the way (they would have dinged him along the way if that wasn't the case)

The fact that this random guy at the end of the process was looking up a sports team roster from 5 years ago is borderline sociopathic. And for the defenders that say it is a pressure test, that is borderline sociopathic to do to this kid as well.

The fact that PM 2 doesn't even have the stones to respond to OP after all of that is pathetic and embarrasing (for him). They deserve to be put on blast

Laser44's picture

The reason why he was interviewed was they wanted his case studies. Free research. 

P72 is a pathetic firm

GenERatING FacOTor AlpHA is PARADISE!

One of the most toxic VPs I used to work with left our bank for P72. Good riddance IMO.

P69. Because they like to screw over ppl so much.

JuulAddict's picture

I think you dodged a bullet.

So let me get this straight. You gave them 50 hours of free and good quality research and about 5 hours of interview time, and risked pissing off people at your current job. There was no reward at all. You would not want to work at a place like this that has no respect for you anyways OP.   

Smoke Frog's picture

Man if this is real, absolutely brutal. It’s amazing how many old people out there enjoying screwing people over for no reason. I’m not sure there are pearly gates we will all have to travel to, but it would be nice if there were and people had to explain themselves before entering heaven…like why would this guy wreck you unless he was jealous of your athletic ability?

Ventimacchiato - Certified Professional

Multiple rounds of buy-side interviews I get it but the way they used the varsity dropout reason to ding you after all the good work is totally messed up. They can just asked that in the first rounds to save everyone’s time. You dodged a bullet tbh.

Echoing above, delete this ASAP if you want to continue to pursue a career in this hell industry

Point72 is that you

deathTouch - Certified Professional

You act like other managers give a fuck what P72 thinks. I’d give a candidate props if he told P72 to fuck off like he did and knew his story was true. Frankly I prefer hiring analysts who have the self-respect and confidence like OP, not some beta who who is too afraid to inform me I have a big blind spot/bias in my views because he’s more worried about confrontation.

I'm sorry but just because you did a case study and got drinks with some team members doesn't entitle you to a job. When hiring managers hire new members for their teams they are making multi-year commitments and there is way more downside to a bad hire than there is upside for a good hire. No one is disrespecting your time - for the 3 interviews you might be doing concurrently, PMs are talking to tens if not hundreds of candidates. There needs to be some way to whittle down the candidate pool and if you don't feel like it's worth your time to go through the process then don't do it - nothing is guaranteed just pick up your head and keep interviewing rather than complaining.

Not to be a dick but I don’t really believe this. You chose to take work off for a bunch of 1 hour interviews? The people you’re interviewing with understand that you have a current job and I would say the vast majority want you to do right by your current employer because they know the industry is very small and that things don’t alway work out as intended. As such, I’m sure they’d have been flexible in scheduling interviews before open, after close, during lunch, etc so that there were relatively minimal interruptions to you and your current situation. I also have a hard time believing they wouldn’t allow you to do a video call if needed either which you could have stepped into a conference room to handle. There was no need for you to take multiple days off (except maybe one for the case study). That shows poor judgement/lack of critical thinking skills imo.

Not sure I believe a senior person dinged you bc they couldn’t find you on a roster either but they might have googled you and then been confused why you weren’t on there. Generally though, PMs have a lot of discretion to make the final call so either the PM isn’t that well established and/or you really pissed the sr guy off. Or it’s fake but not sure what you’d have to gain from making up a story like that so idk.

Or it's fake but not sure what you'd have to gain from making up a story like that so idk.

OP's banana / post ratio is insane. Mirin 

Does anyone know what to include on the "Notes to the Hiring Manager" section of the Point72 Academy application?

guy_incognito's picture

why would they care if you were on a sports team?

Thanks for exposing P72. Sounds like they already found somebody else, or didn't want to hire, and used that irrelevant detail as an excuse. Happens often. I have been through a similar situation, albeit not as bad. Or the PM had a bad day (dumped by his wife or gf, etc.) and wanted to use his power against you.

Also, do you live in a different city from this team? Why the need to take off entire days for every little meeting? Maybe try to combine meetings, ask to use weekends/nights/zooms, etc. to reduce risk of burning goodwill at current role.

But I feel for you, esp all the brain damage you endured to do those case studies... such bs.

HFprospect's picture

I experienced EXACTLY the same at Point72! 

My application was fast tracked as I had outstanding offers, then I had to ask current managers for references as I am fresh out of College (very uncomfortable).

After six interviews with senior PMs and country heads, all with very positive feedback, I was simply told that I did not have enough institutional equity experience. The company showed no remorse for dragging me through months of grueling interviews, case studies and reference checks, only to drop me for something they clearly saw from the offset. This was an obvious bs excuse. 

IMO, the dishonest culture of the crook founder has been embedded in the firms culture. Be aware, I spoke with other fund managers at highly reputable HFs /AMs (think Millennium, Man, Jupiter) and they all said that they would not be comfortable hiring someone from Point72.

Steer clear - lots and lots of red flags

rigorous and very drawn out interview process seems to be the norm at p72, but your last point seems hard to believe after checking exits from Point72 on linkedin

Yes, long and drawn out is expected for a top job but shoddy treatment should not be. To your last point, I guess it is down to PM preference and their personal interactions with P72.

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What Is Point72?

Point72 is a hedge fund investment company that manages the assets of its investors. They are a global company with locations in nine countries. Point72 has offices located in the United States, China, England, Singapore, Japan, France, Australia, Poland, and Taiwan.

Point72 is a great company to work for because they try to promote employees from within instead of hiring externally. They have entry-level jobs available, as well as jobs available for graduates and professionals. There are long-term employment options available for workers who want to turn their jobs at Point72 into lifelong careers.

What Qualities Does a Point72 Recruiter Look For?

Point72 recruiters look for job seekers who:

  • Know how to manage risk well
  • Are confident but not cocky
  • Are collaborative and work together with others
  • Know what Point72 does
  • Are smart and can solve complex problems efficiently
  • Care about Point72
  • Are problem solvers
  • Are innovators
  • Are analytical thinkers

What Is Point72’s Application and Hiring Process?

Point72 has a straightforward, though rigorous, recruitment process. Point72 lists their open and available jobs on their website , and you can apply to any position online. Most positions require you to log in to LinkedIn to apply through the website. To apply, you will fill out a web form that asks for your name, email, and phone number. You can also attach a resume and a cover letter; at the end of the form, there’s a place to add your LinkedIn profile as well as a website (if you have one). Once you have applied and a recruiter has had a chance to review it, you can move on to the next stage of the interview process: the assessment. There are a few basic assessments that you may have to complete before proceeding with the interview process. Point72 uses the the Wonderlic test , which is a Cognitive ability test, and may use a personality test, a basic skill assessment test, a technical skills test, among others. Some applicants may be required to participate in a case study or a modeling test. You may not have to complete all of these assessments, but these are the general assessments that you might encounter during the hiring process. Once you’ve passed all the required tests for the position you are applying for, you will move on to the actual interview process. Once you’ve completed an interview and they’ve made a final decision, they will let you know if you have been hired and for what position.

What Is Point72’s Assessment Process?

Point72 has a lot of applicants; they use cognitive tests—such as the Wonderlic test—to narrow it down to more serious and promising applicants. The competition is pretty intense, and you can be eliminated early on if you don’t prepare well for the assessments.

  • Wonderlic WonScore Cognitive Ability Test : assesses the candidate’s ability to learn, adapt, solve problems, adapt to different work environments, and clearly understand instructions. It also assesses how well the candidate can solve math problems, understand vocabulary, understand analogies, look for similarities in graphs and patterns, etc. The Wonderlic test is 50 questions long, and all the questions must be answered in 12 minutes. If you fail to pass the assessment, then you don’t proceed to the actual interview process. There is also a shorter version (called the pretest or Quicktest) that has 30 questions and an 8 minute time limit.
  • Personality Test : the results of a personality test will help Point72 know that you are a pleasant person to be around and that you will be compatible in the position you’re applying for. Professional personality tests usually include questions where you have to estimate other people’s emotional reactions to certain situations, or it will ask how much you agree with a given statement. For example, it will ask you on a scale of 1-10 how much you agree with the following statement: “I enjoy meeting new people.”

What Is Point72’s Interview Process?

There are a couple of different types of interviews that you may be asked to participate in, such as: a panel interview, a video or Skype interview, or an in-person interview. Once you’ve passed the necessary assessments, a recruiter will contact you to set up an interview.

A panel interview is also an in-person interview, but you will be interviewed by multiple people instead of the traditional one-on-one interview. Usually, you’ll be interviewed by managers and team leads in a group setting. They’ll switch off asking you questions about how you would handle tense work situations, what your past work experience is, or why you would be an asset to Point72.

Tips to prepare for the interview process

  • Have a stock pitch prepared or other ideas ready to go if they ask!
  • Be comfortable with business models, competitors, etc.
  • Prepare several investment ideas with lots of research to back them up

Best things to incorporate into your interview:

  • Show them you have a passion for investing by having good ideas ready to share
  • Know about risk management
  • Tell them why you want to be an investor
  • Have a good pitch that explains your background, your experience, your interests, and how that all relates to Point72
  • Show that you’re a hard worker and have a plan in place to get things done

Common interview questions:

  • How do you deal with setbacks? The best way to answer this is to list your strengths when it comes to dealing with problems. For example, you can mention that you handle stress well and can problem-solve efficiently. You can also bring up specific times in past employment that you’ve effectively worked through struggles and setbacks. Giving specific examples helps employers get a better sense of you as an employee and how you would handle setbacks in their company.
  • When did you become interested in asset management? Your interviewer will want to know that you are passionate about the job you are interviewing for. Talking them through your passion in the investment and asset management career field shows them that you know what you’re talking about and that you’re invested in this career opportunity.

How to Prepare for Point72’s Assessments?

Pre-employment, you will want to participate in lots of research by looking up the different assessments and the questions that are asked on them. Make sure to answer all the questions – you are scored on the number of correct answers you receive. The score is from 0-50 and there is no penalty for wrong answers, so it’s best to answer them all or make an educated guess on the questions you aren’t sure about. Putting down any answer—even if you’re not sure—gives you a higher chance of getting it right. Since the test is time-sensitive, you can skip questions and come back to them, or just make an educated guess and keep going! Getting a score less than 20 usually means you won’t have a chance to work at Point72. You can ask what the required minimum score for the position you are applying for is. The best thing you can do to pass the Point72 assessment is to practice over and over again. Practicing for the assessment will help you be fully prepared when you have to take it. If you don’t pass the cognitive assessment, that just means you won’t proceed with the interview process.

Point72 is a very prestigious company that screens applicants carefully before hiring anyone. Though the application and screening process is rigorous, it’s a good company to work for since they promote internally instead of hiring externally. If you have an aptitude for numbers and investments, this is a good job for you. With enough practice, preparation, and research, you can ace the exam and the interview process to get a great job that can turn into a career!

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point 72 cover letter

Students & Early-Career

Whether you’re looking for an internship, your first job out of school, or to apply your experience to new challenges—explore your path to Point72. 

  • All Programs

Point72 Academy

Experienced professionals, long/short equity.

  • Cubist Systematic
  • Point72 LaunchPoint

Global Macro

  • Private Investments

Investment Services

Proprietary research.

Learn about the strategies and asset classes that make up our global business. 

See how we support our people, communities, and the planet through our ESG efforts.

Meet the team responsible for shaping our firm.

Find us in financial hubs across the globe as we pursue the world’s best talent. 

Working Here

Define your path.

Apply your perspective to the endless puzzles of global finance and bring your ideas to life in an ever-changing industry.

Man and woman walking downstairs

What You Can Expect

We are home to diverse perspectives working together to find new solutions to the challenges of the market.

Our people are smart, curious, humble, generous with their time, and invested in our shared success.

We want our people to grow, and we equip them to succeed through continuous innovation in research tools, technology, and infrastructure.

Whether you’re working toward your degree, searching for your first job out of school, or looking to apply your professional experience to new challenges, explore your path to Point72.

We rely on diversity—of backgrounds, perspectives, experience, and expertise—to succeed as a firm. See how you can apply your skills and learn from the people around you, and around the world.

Explore a hedge fund career or apply your skills to investing with the industry’s premier investment analyst training program.

Cubist Quant Academy

Our year-long systematic rotational program aims to set you on the path to success. Bring your STEM expertise—we’ll teach you the rest.

Early-Career

Do meaningful work as you build expertise, grow your career, and learn from people who excel in their fields.

Internships

Our internships let you explore your potential and discover your professional interests at a premier global asset manager.

We underwrite unique perspectives and investing styles while giving our people the resources to help them succeed and grow.

Quantitative Investing

Cubist provides opportunities for innovative researchers, developers, and data specialists to conduct research on the dynamics of global financial markets.

We invest in asset classes around the world and pride ourselves on having the knowledge and infrastructure to support great teams.

Institutional Private Investing

Our venture capital and private equity teams are comprised of deep domain experts who help emerging companies realize their full potential.

We conduct fundamental research and analyze alternative data sets to give our investment teams new insights.

We depend on a wide variety of specialists to manage all the non-investing activities required to run our global business.

Building a More Diverse Workplace

We are dedicated to creating a workplace that is truly diverse and inclusive by creating pathways into our business and industry and by fostering an environment where everyone has a voice.

point 72 cover letter

100 Women in Finance

We sponsor 100 Women in Finance in support of the organization’s mission to build a more gender equitable finance industry through education and career development opportunities. Leaders and investment professionals at our firm participate in 100WF events as panelists to share their experiences and advice to women interested in pursuing an investing career.

IT For SHE logo

We sponsor IT for SHE, helping talented women studying technology in Poland find mentorship and career opportunities. Leaders and technologists from across our firm also participate as mentors, and IT for SHE alumnae have become valued members of our team.

Correlation One logo

Correlation One

We sponsor Correlation One’s Data Science For All program to bring new voices into data science and engineering, and provide mentorship and interview training to Correlation One candidates.

Giving Back

Driven by our mission and values, we are dedicated to contributing to a more just and sustainable world and focused on nurturing our inclusive and community-driven culture. We welcome all employees to give back through our Community Matters volunteering opportunities—and to get to know their colleagues in the process.

“I think a lot of people here are passionate about giving back. We’ve done things from helping students at underperforming schools understand their career goals to raising money through dodgeball tournaments. I think it’s an extension of our culture overall—we really care about community, diversity, and seeing people reach their full potential.”

Sophie Pitt

Business Development, London

point 72 cover letter

We take care of our People

When you work with us, we invest in your career, your health, and your wellbeing. Benefits can vary by region, but generally include:

two employees talking in Point72 New York office

Point72 is a global asset management firm led by Steven A. Cohen that invests in multiple asset classes and strategies worldwide. For over 30 years, we have been in the business of empowering great talent to find creative solutions, build variant views, and grow our business by bringing their ideas to life.

Group of employees in front of City Harvest wall at volunteer event

Driven by our Mission and Values, we are dedicated to contributing to a more just and sustainable world and focused on nurturing our inclusive and community-driven culture. We welcome all employees to join our affinity groups and to give back through our Community Matters volunteering opportunities.

Point72

Employee Benefits

  • Work alongside fellow interns and be mentored by experienced professionals
  • Meet peers through designated intern programming, volunteer opportunities, and social events
  • Attend sessions with senior leaders discussing their expertise and career paths
  • Get hands-on access to best-in-class tools and resources
  • Gain exposure to groups and functions with unique responsibilities and perspectives on the industry
  • Develop technical, writing, and presentation skills

Core Values

  • Integrity: Point72 values honesty, transparency, and ethical behavior in all aspects of its business operations.
  • Excellence: Point72 strives for excellence in everything it does, from investment strategies to employee development.
  • Collaboration: Point72 fosters a collaborative environment that encourages teamwork, open communication, and diverse perspectives.
  • Innovation: Point72 embraces innovation and encourages employees to explore new ideas and approaches to investment management.
  • Community: Point72 values giving back to the community and encourages employees to participate in philanthropic initiatives.

Founder at Point72

Steven A. Cohen

CEO at Point72

Philip Farese

Chairman at Point72

Matthew Scott Jones

Analyst coach, investment professional development, applied researcher consultant, data engineer, proprietary research, data scientist, proprietary research, 2024 summer internship - data engineer, proprietary research, 2024 summer internship - fundamental research analyst, ba ui & ops tools, recent hiring news, point72 ups singapore headcount to over 100, hedge fund point72 boosts singapore staff to 100: source, similar companies.

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Fundamental Researcher - Canvas

New York, NY

ABOUT CANVAS

On our proprietary research team—Market Intelligence—you’ll partner with our Investment Professionals and Compliance team to uncover insights about companies, industries, and the broader economy through deep fundamental research.

Canvas is the supply chain research group within Market Intelligence. Canvas conducts compliant supply chain research by developing deep industry expertise, talking with private company executives, and synthesizing information for portfolio managers and analysts – our team produces impactful research that will change the way you look at the world.

ROLE SUMMARY

When you join the Canvas team, you’re signing up for the learning experience of your life. You will never look at anything the same – from grocery stores to tires to semiconductors. Every day you will speak with some of the most successful private company executives and learn about the businesses they’ve spent their lives building. You will synthesize your findings in comprehensive reports that are consumed by our investment professionals.

Other Market Intelligence divisions do quantitative research to explain  what  is going on in an industry. As a Fundamental Researcher, your qualitative research will explain the  why.  In this role you will:

  • Become a subject matter expert on an assigned industry
  • Learn from small, medium, and large private company executives about their businesses and the industries in which they operate, including gathering qualitative data on what is happening (e.g., structural shifts; real-time changes in supply/demand dynamics; and emerging competitors, markets, and technologies) and, importantly,  why  it is happening
  • Synthesize your findings in comprehensive reports that present a view of the industry
  • Gain unparalleled exposure to, and learn from, business leaders across industries, including private company executives and your colleagues
  • Interact directly with our investment professionals and learn the discretionary investment process to help drive more informed investment decisions

WHAT EXCITES YOU

  • Staying current on the evolving alternative data market and its role in discretionary investing
  • Speaking with experts both inside and outside the Firm to understand data needs and offerings
  • Analytical thinking and sifting through available data to find “the answer”
  • Fast-paced work environments that at times require switching gears to address the needs of the business
  • Working as part of a cross-functional team made up of Investment, Research, and Compliance professionals

WHAT EXCITES US

  • Excellent attention to detail, organization, and project management skills
  • Superb business intuition and a solution orientated, methodological approach to problem solving
  • Ability to collaborate and build relationships across multiple business units within the Firm
  • People who “elevate the room” through their work ethic, curiosity, and solution-orientated attitude
  • Adherence to the highest ethical standards working closely with the Firm’s Compliance team

WHAT’S REQUIRED 

  • An undergraduate degree or advanced degree with demonstrated academic success
  • Strong analytical skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
  • An eagerness to find out if your conclusions are right or wrong
  • An understanding of how companies work (their processes and outcomes) or an interest in learning
  • Intellectual curiosity, creative thinking, maturity
  • Highest standards of ethical decision making

WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE

  • Integrity – You demonstrate 100% commitment to the highest ethical standards
  • Ownership – You take charge of your work, uphold your commitments, and always do your best
  • Commerciality – You focus on what matters most, ask questions when needed, and are cognizant about not wasting your time or that of others
  • Humility – You welcome and are receptive to feedback and learn from past mistakes
  • Adaptability – You can triage business needs and context switch quickly and efficiently
  • Admirability – You elevate the room through your work ethic, domain knowledge, work product, and solution orientated attitude

WE TAKE CARE OF OUR PEOPLE

We invest in our people, their careers, their health, and their well-being. When you work here, we provide:

  • Fully paid health care benefits
  • Generous parental and family leave policies
  • Mental and physical wellness programs
  • Volunteer opportunities
  • Non-profit matching gift program
  • Support for employee-led affinity groups representing women, minorities and the LGBT+ community
  • Tuition assistance
  • A 401(k) savings program with an employer match and more

About Point72

Point72 Asset Management is a global firm led by Steven Cohen that invests in multiple asset classes and strategies worldwide. Resting on more than a quarter-century of investing experience, we seek to be the industry’s premier asset manager through delivering superior risk-adjusted returns, adhering to the highest ethical standards, and offering the greatest opportunities to the industry’s brightest talent. We’re inventing the future of finance by revolutionizing how we develop our people and how we use data to shape our thinking. For more information, visit www.Point72.com/working-here .

The annual base salary range for this role is $81,000-$100,000, which does not include discretionary bonus compensation or our comprehensive benefits package. Actual compensation offered to the successful candidate may vary from posted hiring range based upon geographic location, work experience, education, and/or skill level, among other things.   

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The perfect cover letter for getting an asset management job

The perfect cover letter for getting an asset management job

People often give a short shrift to cover letters, or they spend time writing one and don't update it, and asset management professionals are no exception. However, together with your resume, cover letters create a hiring manager's first impression of a candidate, so it needs to be as close to perfect as possible.

One slip-up – or submitting a clean yet bland cover letter that makes hiring managers say "meh" – could cost you a chance at landing an interview. Here are the mistakes that asset management professionals should avoid when crafting a cover letter, as well as tips for success.

1. Don’t use a template

Why? Because cover letters written using a template feel stale and impersonal. Feel free to use a template as a checklist to make sure you aren't missing a key element, but don't be afraid to freshen up the format and make it your own.

“If you send a template-based cover letter email, it feels like a template,” says Stacy Havener, CEO of Havener Capital Partners. “People know that this is what you’re sending out to every single job you’re applying to. How many resumes and cover letters do you think they’re getting?

"It doesn’t feel good,” she said.

A cookie-cutter cover letter may cause hiring managers to assume that this job wasn’t even important enough for you to take the time to write a personalized note.

2. Solve a problem 

It's pretty simple: People want to hire and work with problem-solvers.

“I have a problem, and if you can tell me how you can help me solve it, that’s a very good cover letter,” says Havener.

In asset management, in many cases it’s mostly about your numbers, but candidates’ command of the English language is important too, regardless of which role you’re applying for. Tell a story about yourself and how you can help the firm that's recruiting.

3. Show some personality

A cover letter is asset management professionals’ best chance to give decision-makers colour about who they are and how they are going to help the hiring firm.

If you put yourself in the shoes of the person who’s receiving the cover letter, assume they’re getting a lot of them. You can imagine that reading one after the other gets old pretty quickly. You don’t want to be unprofessional, but show some personality and don’t write a boring cover letter.

“Each firm has a vibe or a personality, so if you write a cover letter without anything cool or funny, people reading it don’t really know if you’re a robot or a human, and it doesn’t stand out,” Havener says.

If you read about a job or a firm and something resonates with you personally, share that. You can even include a short anecdote to give the hiring manager or recruiter a feel for who you are as a person.

4. Keep it short

Always remember, your cover letter is most likely going to be read by a busy person with a very short attention span. Therefore, keep it short and specific.

“People in the asset management space are time compressed, so writing an overly-lengthy cover letter can actually disqualify you,” says Reshma Ketkar, director and head of the long-only investment professionals recruiting practice at Glocap Search.

In the asset management industry, if a cover letter has been requested, keep it to two paragraphs, mentioning why you’re interested in the role, why you think you're qualified and what qualities and experience you have that are unique.

When it comes to cover letters, some hiring managers and recruiters see being verbose or boasting as a bad thing.

As an extreme example, Ketkar once worked with an asset management professional who, in lieu of a cover letter, created a 45-page PowerPoint presentation all about himself.

“He thought ‘Wow, this is awesome,’ but it really was not,” she said. “I had to beg the candidate not to send it.”

Including a 25-page stock pitch or research reports that have not been requested is also a no-no.

Instead, think about the hiring manager or recruiter and what they want to see given time constraints, and write a cover letter that is articulate, digestible and useful without being onerous for the hiring manager to read.

Be concise and include only the most relevant details about your background that specifically relate to the job in question.

5. Never share proprietary details

Sharing proprietary details about a previous firm to make yourself look good demonstrates a lack of good judgement, and it could get you in hot water if you signed a non-disclosure agreement, says to Roy Cohen, career counselor, executive coach and the author of The Wall Street Professional’s Survival Guide .

6. Don’t apologise for anything on your resume

Especially if you’ve moved around a lot, never use the cover letter to explain why you’ve made all of the moves or to apologise, because the underlying message is that you did something wrong.

“That’s not the impression you want to make,” Cohen says. “Don’t include any justification for leaving a former employer in the cover letter – leave that for the interview.

“If you’ve moved around, focus on either the most recent position, or summarize your collective experience,” he said.

Photo credit: Photobuay/GettyImages

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COMMENTS

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  2. Point72 Interview Questions (2024)

    Point 72 Application and Hiring Process. Point72 features an easy-to-follow yet strict hiring procedure. On their website, Point72 lists all of the open positions. ... You can also include a resume and cover letter, and at the bottom of the form, there is space for your website and LinkedIn profile (if you have one).

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    Top 25 Point72 Interview Questions & Answers. Get ready for your interview at Point72 with a list of common questions you may encounter and how to prepare for them effectively. Point72, a renowned global asset management firm, has made a significant impact on the finance industry since its establishment in 2014.

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    163 Point72 Interview Questions. • Positive work culture • Good benefits • Work-life balance. • Below-average salary compared to industry standards • Management requires enhancements. • Collaborative and relaxed environment • Engaging tasks • Supportive coworkers. • There is a strong culture of collaboration and support among ...

  8. Applying for the Academy Internship: How to Put Your Best ...

    This is not an advertisement nor an offer to sell nor a solicitation of an offer to invest in any entity or other investment vehicle. The information herein is not intended to be used as a guide to investing or as a source of any specific investment recommendation, and it makes no implied or express recommendation concerning the suitability of an investment for any particular investor.

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    *** Report on Point72 interview questions from a candidate's experience. This is based on Point72 Asset Management - Discretionary Investing - Academy Summer Analyst Program in New York in 2021. There may be some variations depending on the offices or other new updates to the recruitment practice - so please use this for reference/preparation purposes only ***

  12. Students & Early-Career

    Students & Early-Career - Point72. Learn about the culture and community you can expect when you join us. Whether you're looking for an internship, your first job out of school, or to apply your experience to new challenges—explore your path to Point72. Learn about the strategies and asset classes that make up our global business.

  13. Point72 Interview Nightmare

    Point72 Interview Nightmare. A random LinkedIn recruiter reached out to me about Point72 I thought nothing of it but sent my resume. A few days later I had an interview with someone from business development. They sent me a Wonderlic test and a 30 min modeling test. Within a few days I had interviews with two different PMs within Point72.

  14. Point72 Assessment Tests Online Preparation

    You can also attach a resume and a cover letter; at the end of the form, there's a place to add your LinkedIn profile as well as a website (if you have one). Once you have applied and a recruiter has had a chance to review it, you can move on to the next stage of the interview process: the assessment. There are a few basic assessments that ...

  15. Point72 Point 72 Academy Interview Questions

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  16. Working Here

    Business Development, London. When you work with us, we invest in your career, your health, and your wellbeing. Benefits can vary by region, but generally include: Point72 is a global asset management firm led by Steven A. Cohen that invests in multiple asset classes and strategies worldwide. For over 30 years, we have been in the business of ...

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  19. Job Application for Fundamental Researcher

    Fundamental Researcher - Canvas. New York, NY. Apply. ABOUT CANVAS. On our proprietary research team—Market Intelligence—you'll partner with our Investment Professionals and Compliance team to uncover insights about companies, industries, and the broader economy through deep fundamental research. Canvas is the supply chain research group ...

  20. How To Write a Cover Letter (With Examples and Tips)

    Middle paragraph (s) Closing paragraph. Letter ending and signature. Your cover letter should be one page long and use a simple, professional font, such as Arial or Helvetica, 10 to 12 points in size. Your letter should be left-aligned with single spacing and one-inch margins. Show Transcript.

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  22. The perfect cover letter for getting an asset management job

    3. Show some personality. A cover letter is asset management professionals' best chance to give decision-makers colour about who they are and how they are going to help the hiring firm. If you put yourself in the shoes of the person who's receiving the cover letter, assume they're getting a lot of them.

  23. How to write the perfect cover letter (With examples)

    To start your cover letter, introduce yourself. This means including your full name, your specific interest in the position and the reasons you've chosen to apply. If you got a referral to the job from another party, ensure to mention this in the first paragraph. 2. Mention your skills and qualifications.