Need some career advice, recent grad

Hello everyone I recently graduted college this May, and need some advice on how I should purpsue my future careers in finance.

I didn’t gradute from a top tier business school and lack relevent internships. In college I was a double major in finance and business. My school’s alumni network system is pretty much nonexistent. I am dedicated in working hard and trying to get my foot in the door.

I currently work at JP Morgan Chase as a personal banker in the retail sector with not much growth potential and a laterally shift to the IB sector would be very diffcult. I wanted to get into a BB as an anaylst like evryone else or at least something in MM or Operations. What would be my best option to pursue my goals in finance. Thanks in advance for all the advice.

 
Best Response

First off - post your resume with the personal details scratched out, so the WSO board can help provide edits.

Even if your school doesn't have a network system, there are other ways to make connections. If you're w/ JPM, even in the retail sector, you should have access to the firm's intranet system. I suggest trying to find people that are listed in their 'mobility program' in the IB side and shoot them an email to sit down for coffee (I'm assuming you're based in NYC - but if not, maybe you can just get them on the phone).

Most banks have this, I believe JPM does too. Generally professionals in such programs are willing to chat with younger professionals even for general advice. Obviously, you're very unlikely able to take advantage of the mobility program - but at least, you may make some connections, get some advice. They may even put you through to their friends at smaller MM banks...This is a bold move, but you've got nothing to lose.

Besides that - cold call, ask friends, ask friend of friends, family members, professors you might know decently well, anyone - if they know anyone in finance, and can give you a contact or introduction and start networking.

 

Thanks for the terrific advice, but would you think it would be unprofessional if I was going to get in touch with Ib professionals? I've only been on the job for about three months. I'm very tempted in emailing some of these people and asking them for advice but I don't want to also jeopardize my job. Thank you again

 

Well - this is my take. These guys know that most kids graduating don't want to be personal bankers. I highly doubt they'll spread this around or chat with your boss to tell him/her your intentions. People, particularly bankers/S&Ters that volunteered to be 'mobility supporters', understand people may move around to find areas of greater interest.

It's an aggressive move, but I don't think it's unprofessional. You just need to use tact obviously - not ask for a job outright. Express that you have long-term career aspirations in 'banking' or 'S&T' or whatever it is you want, and you would like their career advice. Ask good questions, demonstrate you're eager and smart.

 

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