T3/large boutique or tiny boutique in preferred city or T2 in city I'm less interested in
I'm choosing between 3 FT job offers. Any advice?
1. T2 in a city that I don't like as much where I'll only have a few friends. The T2 specializes in the type of work I'm interested in (not the industry as much) and has a pretty good brand name. Can't transfer offices for at least 2 years.
2. Large boutique (honestly not really a boutique anymore, more like a T3) that is known for a specific type of work (80% of what it does, in addition to other strategy cases). I'm less interested in that type of work, but the brand name is improving and WLB is better than the T2. It is also in a city I really want to be in, where I will have more friends as well. Comp is pretty low for where it is though (~10-15% less than the T2 + higher cost of living)
3. Tiny boutique (~20 people) that specializes in the same type of work as the T2. It is also in my preferred city. Comp is 15-20% greater than the T2 and in line with MBB, but it has no brand name and former employees have told me the WLB is worse than their experience in investment banking.
Heavily leaning toward the T2, and if it was in my preferred city it would be a no-brainer. But will I miss out on living in the preferred city with my friends when I'm in my early 20s?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some key considerations to help you decide between the three job offers:
T2 in a Less Preferred City
Large Boutique in Preferred City
Tiny Boutique in Preferred City
Additional Considerations
Conclusion
Given your heavy leaning towards the T2, it seems like the specialization and brand name are important to you. However, consider the impact of living in a less preferred city on your overall well-being. If the work-life balance and social aspects are crucial, the large boutique in your preferred city might be a better compromise. Ultimately, weigh the importance of career growth against personal happiness and work-life balance to make the best decision for your situation.
Sources: Why work the best years of our lives away?, Why work the best years of our lives away?, Is work life balance really worth it when you are young?, Family Office Private Equity, NYC worth it?
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