Breaking into IB with a disability

Hi All,

I am trying to lateral from valuations to IB. As a potential experienced hire, will the banks consider my cognitive disability in the recruitment process, or is D&I primarily focused on undergrad/ new analyst hires?

19 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, breaking into investment banking (IB) as an experienced hire with a cognitive disability can indeed be part of the diversity and inclusion (D&I) initiatives that banks are increasingly focusing on. While it's true that many D&I efforts are targeted at undergraduates and new analyst hires, there is a growing awareness and effort to include neurodiverse candidates across all levels, including experienced hires.

Here are a few points to consider:

  1. Disclosure: It's a personal choice whether to disclose your disability. If you believe it may require accommodations or if you feel it's an important part of your identity, you may choose to disclose it. However, be aware that this could lead to a range of reactions, from support to potential bias.

  2. Support Systems: Many top banks are now creating support systems and programs for neurodiverse professionals. It would be beneficial to research which banks have these programs and target your applications accordingly.

  3. Lateral Hiring: The lateral hiring process can be different from campus recruiting. It often involves a more focused approach, with resumes and candidates being more carefully screened. Your experience in valuations could be a strong selling point, and your cognitive disability should not detract from your professional achievements and capabilities.

  4. Networking: Building a network within the industry can help you find advocates and allies who can support your application and provide advice on navigating the recruitment process with a disability.

  5. Preparation: As with any candidate, thorough preparation for interviews and a strong understanding of the role and the industry will be crucial. Make sure to highlight your relevant experience and skills that make you a strong candidate for IB.

Remember, the goal is to find a bank that values your unique perspective and skills, and where you feel supported and able to thrive.

Sources: Mental disability & IB, Commercial Banking or Corporate Banking?, Why are banks hiring less qualified candidates?, Q&A : Regional Office Recruiting, A target student's observations from the 2022 IB Recruitment Cycle

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

I think D&I is priamrily race, I don't think it's really associated with disabilies.

How serious is you ADHD? In full honesty, I'm pretty sure that a a lot of bankers have mild to semi-serious diagnosed/undiagnosed ADHD, 

 

ADHD isn't in diversity and Inclusion hiring in most places. Rightly so.

I also think you'll find it difficult as ADHD tendencies and the typical child like behaviour of ADHD adults will not go down well in IB.

Please stop trying to take disability places from people with real disabilities. 

Sponsors M&A (London)
 

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