<p>D is an econ. major applying for summer internships in finance, banking and wealth management. Prior to an upcoming interview with a financial services company, she was asked to e-mail them a writing sample. Do you think their objective is to assess her communication skills, ie. general literacy and clarity of speech, and therefore a formal piece would be preferable? Or should she assume that since there could be some sales and marketing involved in the job, that perhaps they’d want something more informal which would showcase some creativity and style? </p>
<p>Unfortunately, what’s making this a tough call is there is no job description available for this position, so she won’t know until the interview what tasks the intern will be expected to perform. Also, she doesn’t really know anyone with experience interviewing for this type of position and neither do I. I spoke today with a business consultant who recently helped a young grad get a job. His take on it was that since she’s coming from HYPS, they probably want to see if she can communicate with “regular people” (his words, not mine) and thus she should take out the big words and aim for simpler, high school level writing. I kind of doubt this is the case, since the recruiter graduated from D’s school too, but who knows?</p>
<p>I suspect they are looking for the clarity of her thoughts, how well she is able to communicate them and make a point, understanding of the pertinent facts- and her judgment in the topic she chooses. So, I suspect neither formal (ie, in the sense of strutting her intellectual stuff) nor so informal as to be aimed at the lowest level of client, too simplistic. I think, esp since the job involves some sales/mktg, that we’re talking general business clarity and purpose. A hint of confidence. A document desribing a program, service or experience might do it. Three Bears: not too high, not too low, just right. I am sorry I can’t be more helpful. I’ve been through this and without specific insider advice, it’s never easy to know. Good luck.</p>
<p>Thanks so much for the input, esp. the suggestions for the document. Maybe she could describe a program offered by the professional club she’s involved in…</p>
<p>I think they want to know if she has good business writing skills, which is different from writing a research paper. Most analysts spend their time to prepare power points and writing emails to clients. They probably want to know if your kid could communicate concisely and clearly. I agree with lookingforward. If I have to guess, this is probably coming from wealth management.</p>
<p>Since she only writes academic papers for college classes, I wonder if there’s a business topic she knows enough about to write intelligently. I feel so inadequate to counsel her!</p>
<p>In general, business writing tasks can include descriptions, proposals, correspondence. At your D’s stage, I’d think the first is a good bet, since the other two are specific to clients or the business itself. Maybe have her try writing about the club program, perhaps envisioning it as aimed at a higher level college administrator or something that might be included in a college publication. Ie, not a description of we do this, meet weekly and blah blah. But an explanation of the purpose, significance and accomplishments, in a comfortable, informative tone. I think once she gets started, she’ll feel her way through. Help her ensure it is clear and focused. Best of luck to her.</p>
<p>I suggest she contact them (email?) to clarify what type of writing sample they’d prefer. Seems to be a valid question. My guess–they’re looking for clarity of thought; succinct rather than verbose.</p>