Dealbreaker recently highlighted what a little extra guts can do for your private equity job search. It seems an ambitious job-seeker named Jeffrey Chiang decided to take a page from personal ads and the acting world to give his resume that added kick.
Chiang included a few “action” shots along with a close-up photo (known in acting circles as a head shot) along with his cover letter and CV. One of the photos showed him scaling the Himalayas; the other sailing a boat.
It may sound contrived but it caught the attention of the firm he was targeting, says Dealbreaker. That, plus the fact that he graduated from college at age 20, interned at Merrill Lynch and is currently studying for his Level 1 CFA all resulted in an interview.
Dealbreaker posted his cover letter online in case you’re looking for ideas. It begins: ” My character can be summed up by a personal adage: “The only limitations are rules of science. All others we put on ourselves.” I am willing and eager to do whatever it takes to work at [name of PE firm omitted] so that I may gain the experience I desire. I graduated with a B.S. in Finance from San Diego State at twenty whilst simultaneously doing an internship at Merrill Lynch. I am currently finishing my Master of Finance with courses from Harvard as well as studying for my level 1 CFA.”
His approach may make some people cringe. But it definitely shows confidence and attitude. What’s your take? What’s the gutsiest ploy you’ve ever heard about for getting a foot in the door (for an interview) at a private equity firm? Add your comments below.
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