Dating as an Analyst in IB
Hi guys, great to meet you! I recently secured a job out of a non-target school (I think) with a bank in the Midwest. I'm really excited about the position and starting in June, but I do have some reservations and am just curious on how analysts make the most of their time away from the office...
I guess the big question I have is: how do you make time to go on dates/meet women/spend time with your girlfriend when working 85 hours a week (that's what I've heard is the norm at my bank, hoping it'll be less)? I haven't had any issues while in college, but the thought of working until 1am every morning and trying to find time to take a girl to dinner seems really unrealistic. How have you managed?
Communicate and let them know you’ll only ever be free on weekend nights, and even those are a toss up (telling her you might cancel adds to your mystique).
Some girls won’t mind and some will, but when you take them out do it properly. Art gallery, dinner, live music, thoughtful shit that women like. Be fantastic in the small doses that you’re available.
Girls you know organically (college, mutual friends, etc.) tend to be more understanding of the lifestyle than those you meet online.
And additionally, I do better work when I get laid—it is a huge morale boost. Tinder/Hinge are good for this, but a Raya referral will do you good too.
Godspeed brother
Dating as an IB analyst is definitely a challenge, but not impossible. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some strategies and insights:
Efficient Time Management: Analysts often become masters of squeezing the most out of limited free time. For example, Friday nights can be an opportunity to leave the office earlier (around 8 PM) and plan a dinner date. Weekends, especially protected Saturdays, are also key for spending quality time with a significant other or going on dates.
Adjusting Expectations: The reality is that your schedule will be demanding, and you may not have the same flexibility as in college. However, many analysts find ways to make it work by being upfront about their time constraints and prioritizing meaningful interactions over frequent meetups.
Long-Distance Relationships: Some analysts maintain long-distance relationships, which can work if both parties are committed. However, it can take a toll on your health and energy if you're sacrificing sleep to stay connected, as one WSO contributor shared about their experience of juggling late-night calls and work.
Dating Within the Industry: Some analysts find it easier to date people who understand the demands of the job, such as colleagues or others in high-pressure careers. This can reduce misunderstandings about your availability and work hours.
Efficiency in Socializing: Analysts often become more selective about how they spend their time. For instance, breakfast or coffee dates on weekends can be a great way to connect without eating into your limited downtime.
Humor and Perspective: As one WSO user humorously put it, "If the bank wanted you to have a girlfriend, they would've issued you one." While this is a joke, it highlights the importance of maintaining a sense of humor and perspective about the challenges of dating in IB.
Ultimately, while the hours are tough, many analysts find ways to balance their personal lives by being intentional with their time and setting realistic expectations.
Sources: How do investment bankers handle long hours?, Investment Banking Hours - What to Expect?, Work/Life Balance: Equity Research vs. Investment Banking - (A Definitive Guide, Part 1), Can IB Analysts Have Girlfriends?, Investment Banking Analyst: A True Day in the Life
You don’t. It’s unfortunate, but kinda part of the deal.
Forming a relationship requires consistency and time neither of which are possible while a banking analyst.
The good news is there really isn’t much progress made on the dating front from 22-24, honestly I don’t know a single person who met their sig other in that time window. Relationships tend to be from college/precollege or there is a sweet spot at like 25-27 where guys tend to finish their first brutal role and get a little free time, or a tail of people dating in mba programs or after 30.
I had my longest dry-spell of my life aside from virginity during IB. You gotta just put your head down and accept that the analyst stint sucks and it’s a 1-2 year stretch where you are unilaterally focused on learning and making money.
I promise you will have time for dating later.
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