Intern: Shave or don't shave my mustache

Hi, I'm starting a finance internship this Monday. I was hoping that I could your opinions, Is it looked down upon or bad to have a mustache as an intern. Without a mustache which is trim and formal, I would look like a teenager. Let me know, I'm not trying to make a bad first impression!

2 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights regarding facial hair for interns in finance:

  1. Professional Appearance: It's crucial to maintain a professional appearance. While a clean-shaven look is often recommended, a well-groomed mustache can be acceptable if it looks neat and formal.

  2. Perception: You mentioned that without a mustache, you look like a teenager. In finance, looking mature and professional can be beneficial. If your mustache helps you achieve that look, it might be worth keeping it, provided it is well-maintained.

  3. Consistency: Ensure that your facial hair is consistently trimmed and looks intentional. Avoid any styles that might be seen as too casual or unkempt.

  4. Feedback from Peers: Since you have been networking with individuals at various levels and have received positive feedback, it might be helpful to ask for their opinions directly. They can provide insights specific to the culture of the firm you are joining.

In summary, a well-groomed mustache that enhances your professional appearance should be fine, but always prioritize looking neat and polished.

Sources: Is it a sin?, Interviewing: Young Bald Men and Facial Hair?, Summer 2017 Investment Banking Interns - Do's and Don'ts List, Most Badass Intern Story?, Beard as an Intern

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

Amet et temporibus modi doloribus. Aut eum similique sunt et blanditiis asperiores. Cumque quaerat natus dolor deleniti est. Ut sint voluptatem numquam minus.

Molestiae facilis aperiam sint tempore. Et sit iste eveniet. Pariatur laborum dolorum suscipit perspiciatis ducimus officia velit ipsum.

Illum a omnis est consequatur esse non doloremque. Similique numquam corporis autem aliquam. Repudiandae qui asperiores laborum assumenda numquam et.

Career Advancement Opportunities

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.3%
  • Morgan Stanley 08 97.8%
  • Goldman Sachs 02 97.2%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Evercore No 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 01 98.3%
  • Banco Santander 02 97.8%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.2%

Professional Growth Opportunities

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 06 98.3%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.8%
  • JPMorgan 01 97.2%

Total Avg Compensation

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (16) $429
  • Associates (47) $258
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (24) $180
  • Intern/Summer Associate (14) $159
  • 1st Year Analyst (82) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (73) $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
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
3
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
4
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
5
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
6
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
7
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
8
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
98.9
9
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
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...”