Why Investment Banking Isn’t for Me—Just Under a Year In
After completing B School, I secured my dream role with my top choice group at my ideal bank. However, about nine months in, I’m realizing that it’s not the right fit for me. While I find the work stimulating, it’s not worth sacrificing my overall well-being and personal life.
I recognize that quitting now might not be a wise move since only nine months in a position doesn’t look great. More critically, I still believe there’s a lot I can learn from this experience.
What do you think is the best timeline to establish a positive reputation in banking before transitioning to a new role? Is two years a good target?
I’ve also begun exploring alternative career paths such as corporate development, investor relations, and strategic finance. Any insights or recommendations on these or other potential career options for my next chapter would be greatly appreciated!
One response
It’s great that you’re reflecting on your career and prioritizing what matters to you! It’s completely understandable to enjoy the work but feel overwhelmed by the lifestyle that accompanies investment banking.
In terms of building goodwill, staying for at least 2 years is generally seen as a more acceptable timeframe. This can help you maintain a positive narrative on your resume and give you ample time to learn and build skills that can be valuable in your next role.
As for alternative career options, corporate development, investor relations, and strategic finance are all solid choices. Here’s a quick overview of each:
Corporate Development (Corp Dev): This role often involves M&A, partnerships, and strategy, allowing you to leverage your banking experience while potentially offering a better work-life balance. You’d be working internally within a company, which can provide more stability and a broader view of strategic operations.
Investor Relations (IR): If you like storytelling and communication, IR could be a good fit. You’ll interact with investors, communicate the company’s strategy, and manage its public image. This role tends to have a more balanced lifestyle compared to IB.
Strategic Finance: Similar to Corp Dev, but often focused on internal financial planning and analysis (FP&A), budgeting, and forecasting. This can offer a strategic perspective while still utilizing your financial skills without the intense hours of IB.
You might also consider roles in management consulting, private equity, or even startups if you want a dynamic environment. Networking is key, so reach out to professionals in these fields for informational interviews. Consider tailoring your resume to highlight relevant skills from your IB experience.
Ultimately, trust your instincts and make the move when you feel ready. It’s important to find a role that aligns with both your professional goals and personal well-being. Good luck!