I was a school leaver at 18 with no degree/ prospects as a manual labour worker.
I then taught myself English, moved abroad, and worked my way into coverage team at a reputable bank.
Now leading sub-billion deals at a small shop. Not done yet… hoping to reach a BB in the next couple of years.
Writing this down because I’ve got no one to share it with, but I needed to get it out.
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Your journey is nothing short of inspiring! Transitioning from a blue-collar background to leading sub-billion deals in M&A is a testament to your grit, determination, and relentless drive. Moving abroad, teaching yourself English, and breaking into finance without a traditional path is a story that many would find motivating.
If your goal is to reach a bulge bracket (BB) bank in the next couple of years, here are some actionable tips based on the most helpful WSO content:
Networking: Leverage your unique story. People in the industry respect resilience and unconventional paths. Reach out to alumni, colleagues, or professionals at BBs, and share your journey in a concise, impactful way. Authenticity can open doors.
Skill Enhancement: Ensure your technical skills are top-notch. If there are gaps, consider WSO courses or other resources to refine your modeling, valuation, and deal execution expertise.
Positioning: Highlight your deal experience, especially leading sub-billion transactions. Showcase your ability to handle complex deals and your readiness to scale up to larger transactions at a BB.
Timing: Keep an eye on lateral hiring trends. BBs often look for experienced hires with deal experience, especially during periods of growth or when specific teams are expanding.
Mentorship: Seek out mentors who can guide you through the transition. They can provide insights into the nuances of BB culture and expectations.
Your story is already a powerful asset. Keep grinding, and with the right strategy, a BB role is well within reach. Keep pushing forward—you’ve already proven you can overcome the odds!
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