Lincoln International Superday Guide
Everything you need to know to prepare for and succeed in your Lincoln International Superday. This guide covers the format, what to expect, and proven strategies from successful candidates.
Last updated April 2026 · By the Superday AI editorial team
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Full Day (8-12 hours)
4-6 Back-to-Back
Chicago, IL Office
Superday Format
Typically 4-5 interviews with emphasis on sponsor coverage and cross-border experience.
Typical Day Structure:
Application & Resume Review
Lincoln recruits from a mix of target schools with a focus on candidates who demonstrate genuine interest in middle market advisory. Applications are reviewed for academic strength, relevant experience, and cultural alignment.
First Round Interview
A 30-minute interview with a VP or Associate. Balanced technical and behavioral format covering M&A fundamentals, valuation methodologies, and your interest in Lincoln's middle market focus.
Superday
Three to five interviews with Directors and Managing Directors. Expect thorough technical probing on M&A processes and valuation, alongside genuine cultural fit assessment. The interviews tend to be collegial and conversational.
Case Discussion
Some interviewers may present a middle market sell-side scenario and ask you to walk through buyer identification, process design, and valuation considerations.
Offer Decision
Lincoln communicates decisions within one to two weeks. The firm values clear and respectful communication with all candidates throughout the process.
What to Do
- Prepare detailed knowledge of sell-side M&A processes at the middle market level, including how they differ from large-cap auction processes.
- Understand Lincoln's valuation advisory practice and the types of engagements it handles: fairness opinions, solvency opinions, purchase price allocations, and portfolio valuations.
- Research Lincoln's European operations and cross-border capabilities. The firm's international reach within the middle market is a distinctive strength.
- Demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for working with private equity sponsors and entrepreneur-owned businesses.
- Show that you appreciate the depth of deal experience available at Lincoln. Middle market analysts typically see more completed transactions than their bulge bracket counterparts.
- Be personable and collaborative in your interview demeanor. Lincoln's culture is genuinely supportive, and interviewers assess for this fit.
What to Avoid
- Do not dismiss Lincoln as a second-tier advisory firm. The firm is a leading middle market advisor with a strong global reputation.
- Avoid being unprepared on valuation fundamentals. Given Lincoln's significant valuation advisory practice, this is a baseline expectation.
- Do not overlook Lincoln's European presence and cross-border capabilities. These are meaningful differentiators within the middle market space.
- Never frame middle market banking as a stepping stone to larger deals. Lincoln bankers are committed to the middle market and value candidates who share that commitment.
- Avoid being purely technical without showing interpersonal warmth. Lincoln's collaborative culture means fit assessment is weighted heavily.
- Do not focus on exit opportunities as a primary motivation. Lincoln values candidates who want to build a career in middle market advisory.
What to Bring
Multiple resume copies
5-6 clean copies
Notepad and pen
For notes and questions
Breath mints
After lunch refresher
Portfolio/padfolio
Looks professional
Business cards
If you have them
Phone charger
For emergencies only