Having worked as an investment banker and corporate financial analyst for such prestigious financial institutions as Lehman Brothers and UBS Financial, Bilal Basrai has faced more than one investment banking job interview. It’s a high-pressure situation, but you may be able to alleviate some of that pressure by keeping the following in mind.

Know The Role

If you walk into a job interview without having any idea about what the role actually entails, you are simply going to offend the interviewer and give them a reason to cross you off their list before you even sit down to talk. Do your research, demonstrate that you understand what will be required of you and discuss what you can bring to the specific role, in addition to the company in general.

Be Ready For The Technical Test

Most interviews for a job in investment banking are going to make use of a technical test that will examine your proficiency when it comes to numbers and various other aspects of the job. Make sure that you review anything that you think might be relevant before you interview for a role, rather than assuming that your degree prepared you sufficiently.

Look Good

First impressions count in the business world for so many different reasons, so Bilal Basrai recommends looking the part as soon as you walk through the door. Have a good suit on and ensure that you are well-groomed. Watch your body language and don’t do things that betray nervousness, such as covering your mouth with your hand when you speak. If you make a good first impression, you will increase your chances of getting the chance to follow up and show what really makes you special.