Advice needed about upcoming BB role: 2 practical questions

I'm not in banking so take this with a grain of salt. I would say don't bring the recorder. Take notes as instructions are being given, and if you need clarification simply ask pertinent questions. If you're taking notes on the important tasks I dont see why you would forgetting would be an issue, and asking good questions shows that you get it to some extent and are actively involved with what your doing. That's just my take though, the bankers may be able to help more from experience.

definitely bring your books so we can identify the tools more easily!

bring the books is fine..my VP has a bunch of books on his desk.

just use a notepad and pen to write down the notes you need.

I'd be a bit weirded out if I found out someone was hiding a recording device haha.

You don't need the books and you've got to be kidding me with the recorder. Banking isn't rocket science, if you're starting FT you probably have half a brain, so don't worry about learning the material, there are plenty of dumbasses in the industry who did fine. Just try not to be the guy who always has to ask a question at the end just to make himself sound smart, this pisses everybody off and these people are goddamn tools who need to be severely beaten.

Don't use a dictaphone. Take notes. And books will depend on culture but i think you'll be fine if you bring them, even though you will likely never refer to them.

No dictaphone, just use a notepad and pen like everyone else.

Leave your books at home, nothing you work on will require a textbook. If something is an issue you will either get guidance from someone senior, end up talking with another FT analyst about it, or look at previous models/pitch books/analyses to find out the correct answer.

The dictaphone and books will only help you establish yourself as "that weird guy".

i can send you a pdf of rosenbaum if you want an e copy to refer to.

In my group both analysts and associates had various textbooks lying around to refer to for some complicated things so I think it depends on group - you can always put them in drawers as well.

No dictaphone, books are fine but superfluous, almost everything is going to be easier to ask someone or look up online.

I agree with everyone - definitely leave the dictaphone - a pad and paper will work just fine and if you any questions, just ask especially during the first few weeks as you get your footing.

For the books, if you are talking about referring to them and discussing them in training, leave them at home. If you are talking about bringing them in for your desk/cube, I would still leave them at home, but there's nothing wrong with bringing them - if you will feel more comfortable with them there, then bring them. As someone else mentioned, if you have any questions, it will definitely be quicker to just ask someone or google it, rather than search through one of your books.

related question - what should be brought to training? i would just feel a little awkward carrying around a notepad all day...but dont want to be (look) unprepared

Yep, don't bring the recorder. I had a couple of ex-MD's tell me to always bring a notepad/pen with you (like if they call you into their office, for example).