Your work speaks for you.

You've been accepted into one of J.P. Morgan's prestigious programs, where you'll work alongside the brightest Analysts and best people on the Street. If you're here for the summer and successful, you may receive a full-time job offer at the end of the summer.

So how should you prepare? What can you do to make the best impression possible?

Simply tackle this new challenge as you would any other: break it down into manageable pieces. Here are a few pointers from our recruiters and recent Analyst class:

Learn what makes an Analyst strong

Briefly, strong Analysts are curious about the data they examine, communicate effectively with senior clients and colleagues, and work well under pressure.

A strong quantitative aptitude is essential, but you need more. We expect you to look beyond the numbers to the trends and patterns they reveal. What story do they tell, and what does it mean? For example, if you're a Sales & Trading Analyst, you'll watch the markets and learn how they affect your products, and think about the best way to serve your clients.

In almost every job you will ever have, you will need superior written and oral communications skills. Work on them. As an Analyst at J.P. Morgan, for example, you may be called on to make presentations, explain data - tell those stories behind the numbers - and meet with senior clients and senior J.P. Morgan colleagues.

Learn to flourish under tight deadlines, think quickly under pressure and remain enthusiastic through it all. You've got to be able to absorb and synthesize large amounts of data. And definitely be a true team player; you're not in this alone.

Do your homework

You've heard us say before that you should find out all you can about J.P. Morgan. Now is the time to fill in any gaps. Read our 10-K, proxy statement, press releases, Latest News. Stay on top of what the financial press has to say about us and our competitors.

Learn as much as you can about the inner workings of J.P. Morgan, especially your group and the roles your team members play. How is your group structured? Which groups does it work closely with, and what do they do together? Who are its clients, and what are their needs?

Effort counts

Be sure your work is as flawless as it can be. Make sure it's complete and correct, and keep your team members updated on all projects. This may be your first career-shaping job, and everything about it is a learning opportunity. Ask questions, and seek out feedback and clearly defined objectives.

Work your network

We are committed to giving you the training and the tools you need to succeed. That's why we provide you with peer mentors and senior mentors. They are a tremendous resource; make sure you are proactive and meet with mentors and colleagues in your group often.

This is also your opportunity to start your own network. Grab the occasional coffee or lunch with your colleagues; they may become an important part of your life. Establish at least one solid relationship with someone in your group - and get to know as many people as you can.
And if you happen to have an opportunity to meet senior management or colleagues outside of your group, say hello and introduce yourself.

Avoid the pitfalls

Take interest in whatever you're doing. That means being on time and prepared. For Summer Analysts, "prepared" usually includes some thoughtful questions or ideas. At presentations, listen to other people's questions (and the answers) and use them to ask follow-up questions, if appropriate.

Always, always be professional, no matter what the setting. Dress appropriately, respond promptly to invitations and requests and communicate often with your manager. Stay positive and polite.

You will work long hours (and it will be worth it), but take time to enjoy the city and build your friendships.

Position yourself for a full-time offer

At the end of every summer, we invite top-ranked Analysts to join the firm after graduation. If you prefer to be in a role or group other than where you interned, don't be afraid to say so. This was probably your first exposure to investment banking or asset management in a training program, and we understand that. You will gain exposure to – and have the opportunity apply to – various areas within the firm over the course of your internship.