English/Ethnic Name on CV/LinkedIn - for Investment Banking
This is for the UK specifically.
I am a UK student and currently have offers from 2 semi-target universities for Investment Banking. When creating my resume/CV, particularly for spring and summer internships, is it advisable for me to create an English name? I've seen many post, studies and even my parents suggesting that using an ethnic sounding name may reduce my chances of getting an offer or may negatively affect the impression I make before an actual interview. Is it that substantial? or should I just stick with my real name?
Just for context, my name is ethnically Chinese and quite difficult for native English speakers to pronounce. It's also somewhat confusing because my dad translated it directly from Chinese.
For example (this is not my real name, just a googled one), "Wang Yuzhuo" would be the direct translation from Chinese to English, but on my documents, it would appear as "Yu Zhuo Wang." instead of "Yuzhuo Wang." So there's a weird separation in the middle for some reason, so it looks like a middle name. In this case, could I use something like "Adam Wang"?
I don’t want to fully change my name because that would be a hassle. Moreover, how would I approach this with employers? If I do decide to change my name, I would like it to be reflected on my LinkedIn without risking account restrictions or problems verifying it under a different name later on.
I do acknowledge that some companies may have legal and preferred name sections on the application. If they ask for a preferred name during the application process, should I apply without my English name? and does my CV name, and LinkedIn all have to be a match with my ID/legal name? I don't really mind having an English Name but it's more of a hassle and I do like my Chinese name.
Sorry if this is a lot of questions, any help would be appreciated
I’m of African origin and also have an ethnic sounding name, way more complex than yours and it’s not stopped me from interning / interviewing / getting offers from / working at several BBs, EBs and PE funds.
If your CV is good (relevant experience, top uni, well formatted etc) it shouldn’t be a problem. I think the whole ethnic name thing is overstated imo.
This is your point of difference. One of the things that makes you stand out...be proud of your heritage. Everyone loves a cool backstory.
Be yourself. People want to meet the real you.
Don't take the yeast out of the bread before it bakes.
There are lots of Chinese kids going by their Chinese names and lots also going by made up English names. Same applies for those of African origin. Sometimes these names are assigned from birth and sometimes later in life, doesn't really matter.
Do whatever makes you feel comfortable.
Would it be a disadvantage to use the format: Yuzhuo Wang (preferred direct translation of name) instead of Yu Zhuo Wang (as shown on my legal ID)?
Also, thank you for your reply!
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