How to get out of product?

I've been in a product role at a large AM for the past year now and just can't take it anymore. The work is so incredibly boring and the best parts of my days are when I get to read investment memos from the PM's for about 5 minutes. Thought this role was going to be more technical but besides understanding how the fund (fixed income) I cover operates and what's going on in the markets there's no real tangible skillset I've learned from this job. 


Most of my coworkers usually go for their MBA's after four years or pivot to product roles in tech. Talked to a couple of friends doing ER and research at AMs but doesn't seem like my background is a fit. Does anyone have advice on where I can or should go to next? My fear is that I'll have to wait it out a couple more years then do an MBA to pivot. 

 

Ah, the classic pivot conundrum! It sounds like you're itching for a change and that's perfectly normal. Based on the most helpful WSO content, there are a few paths you could consider:

  1. MBA: As you mentioned, this is a common route for many in your position. An MBA could provide you with the opportunity to pivot into a more analytical role, such as investment banking or private equity. It's a significant investment of time and money, but it could open doors that might be difficult to open otherwise.

  2. Networking: This is a powerful tool that can help you transition into a new role or industry. Start by reaching out to people in roles or industries you're interested in. Ask them about their work, how they got there, and any advice they might have for someone looking to make a similar transition. You never know where these conversations might lead!

  3. Additional Certifications: Depending on your interests, you might consider pursuing additional certifications. For example, a CFA could be beneficial if you're interested in a more analytical role.

  4. Internal Transfer: Have you considered looking for opportunities within your current company? This could be a less drastic step than some of the other options and could allow you to leverage your existing knowledge and relationships.

Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all answer here. It's about finding the path that aligns with your interests and long-term career goals. Good luck, and remember, even a monkey falls from trees sometimes, but they always find their way back up!

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/got-paid-360k-do-i-go-to-bschool?customgpt=1, Exiting from Corporate Development, Advice on career and the switch into investment banking, Q&A: From Big4 Audit -> Big4 Advisory -> MBA -> AM Portfolio Manager

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Porro ratione blanditiis fugit sunt. Velit tempore tempora cupiditate ea molestiae.

Repellendus aut esse sed laudantium. Impedit enim alias sunt sit. Voluptatem delectus et labore cumque autem laboriosam quod. Deserunt quibusdam eius molestiae sit dolore.

Career Advancement Opportunities

April 2024 Investment Banking

  • Jefferies & Company 02 99.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 19 98.8%
  • Harris Williams & Co. New 98.3%
  • Lazard Freres 02 97.7%
  • JPMorgan Chase 03 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

April 2024 Investment Banking

  • Harris Williams & Co. 18 99.4%
  • JPMorgan Chase 10 98.8%
  • Lazard Freres 05 98.3%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.7%
  • William Blair 03 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

April 2024 Investment Banking

  • Lazard Freres 01 99.4%
  • Jefferies & Company 02 98.8%
  • Goldman Sachs 17 98.3%
  • Moelis & Company 07 97.7%
  • JPMorgan Chase 05 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

April 2024 Investment Banking

  • Director/MD (5) $648
  • Vice President (19) $385
  • Associates (87) $260
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (14) $181
  • Intern/Summer Associate (33) $170
  • 2nd Year Analyst (66) $168
  • 1st Year Analyst (205) $159
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (146) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
3
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
99.0
4
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
5
kanon's picture
kanon
98.9
6
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
7
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
8
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
9
Jamoldo's picture
Jamoldo
98.8
10
bolo up's picture
bolo up
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”