Pershing Interview Questions
& Process

I've been in financial services for a while and know most firms are slow, but this was a weird one. Applied online via referral and heard back 6 weeks later for a phone interview. It went okay, but they didn't say what was next. The very next day, I was told I made it to the next round and had an in-person panel interview (3:1) scheduled for the following week. But then, two of the three interviewers bailed. I actually liked the one manager I did speak with, and they said a decision would be made in a few weeks. Later that day, someone else from the original panel called and did another phone interview. That part was pretty standard. The really strange part was the final interview, where the interviewer told me they'd already made an offer to someone else the week before and that there would be no follow-up for me. While I appreciate the honesty, I was confused why I went through multiple rounds for a job that was already filled before they even talked to me. It felt awkward. She also mentioned that even though two managers gave great feedback on my earlier chats, I'd have to start the whole application and interview process over for any other roles at the firm. I thought people usually got put in a talent pool for other jobs. Some odd things: I initially requested an interview date, but they said a room was needed. When I showed up, it was a 1:1 interview, so the room wasn't necessary. Basically, I interviewed for a job that wasn't available anymore.

I had an interview with three or four people: the hiring manager, his boss, and an HR representative. I did not interact with any colleagues during the process. Interestingly, after I was hired for one position, I was moved to a different role within three months, which I neither wanted nor was qualified for. Since I was the newest employee and it was during a severe recession, I couldn't leave. The role was undesirable, and it took me about six months to persuade my manager to convince his superior to let me return to my original job. I was moved back to my initial role about two months later. The manager later used this favor to his advantage before he left the company. It would have been the right thing to do to support me from the start, but that's unlikely to happen. I've heard from others about similar 'bait, accept, and switch' situations. It seems management doesn't prioritize qualifications, just having a presence is enough.

The interview process seemed intimidating but it went really well. You should show confidence, but don't be overconfident or cocky. The more you know about the position and company you're interviewing for, the more impressive the interview will go. Bring copies of your resumes; I was told I was the only intern candidate that did. Also, make sure you sincerely thank everyone who interviews you, both before and after the interview. Be sure to have a sharp and concise closing – it might be what they ultimately remember you from. Make sure to wear a suit. Know your resume; what it says, and have supporting stories from previous work experience. Try to tailor your resume to each position you're applying for. Look at the job description and go from there. After the interview, write a handwritten thank-you card to those you interviewed with; it could be the deciding factor.

Got a call from an admin about 6 weeks after applying, and thankfully I had caller ID because they were unclear on the phone. I called back and the admin set up an interview with HR, the Hiring Manager, and another team member. I interviewed with the Hiring Manager first, then the team member, and finally HR. The HR rep promised to get back to me within the week regarding follow-up interviews or a rejection. Unsurprisingly, I never heard back after reaching out twice, so I'm done with this process.