Technical Analysis

Term from Investment Management industry explained for recruiters

Technical Analysis is a method used by investment professionals to predict future market movements by studying past market data, mainly price and volume. Think of it as studying patterns in stock charts and market behavior to make educated guesses about where prices might go next. While some investors focus on company fundamentals like earnings and revenue, technical analysts look at charts, trends, and trading patterns. It's similar to how weather forecasters use historical weather patterns to predict future weather. This approach is commonly used by traders, portfolio managers, and investment analysts to make buying and selling decisions.

Examples in Resumes

Developed trading strategies using Technical Analysis methodologies

Applied Technical Analysis and chart patterns to identify market opportunities

Led team training sessions on Technical Analysis and Market Analysis techniques

Typical job title: "Technical Analysts"

Also try searching for:

Market Analyst Investment Analyst Trading Analyst Quantitative Analyst Financial Market Analyst Trading Strategist Chart Analyst

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you combine different technical analysis methods to make investment decisions?

Expected Answer: A senior analyst should explain how they use multiple indicators together, manage conflicting signals, and incorporate risk management into their analysis process. They should also mention how they adapt their approach to different market conditions.

Q: How do you train junior analysts in technical analysis methods?

Expected Answer: Should discuss their approach to mentoring, including how they teach basic concepts, common pitfalls to avoid, and how they help juniors develop their own analysis style while maintaining consistency with team methods.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What technical indicators do you use and why?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain common indicators like moving averages, relative strength index, and trend lines in simple terms, and describe when each is most useful.

Q: How do you validate your technical analysis findings?

Expected Answer: Should explain their process for confirming analysis, including using multiple timeframes, volume confirmation, and how they handle false signals.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is a trend and how do you identify it?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic concepts of uptrends and downtrends, and describe how to spot them using simple tools like trendlines and moving averages.

Q: Explain the importance of trading volume in technical analysis.

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of how volume confirms price movements and why it's important to consider volume when analyzing market trends.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic chart pattern recognition
  • Understanding of main technical indicators
  • Knowledge of trend analysis
  • Basic risk management concepts

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced pattern recognition
  • Multiple timeframe analysis
  • Trading strategy development
  • Performance analysis and reporting

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex strategy development
  • Team leadership and mentoring
  • Risk management expertise
  • Integration of multiple analysis methods

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No understanding of basic market concepts
  • Inability to explain analysis methods in simple terms
  • Lack of risk management awareness
  • No experience with common charting software
  • Poor understanding of market cycles and trends