Fifth Third Bank is an Awful place to work

I usually don’t go on these threads, last time I posted I actually wanted to work on Wall Street. Now I’m so sick of banks and the attitude of bankers - have you ever heard of a Banker who grew up with financial trouble? I just truly feel that Fifth third bank and H2C really feels like they got away with one with they way they treated me. I did really well in my first 3 months there and earned a bonus from the real estate investment banking team. Unfortunately I had to take a leave of absence. I was on the hot seat ever since I came back. Even while on the hot seat, I was pressured to move to NY and get an apartment, which I lost bc I did not have a job. I was given one deal with a new member of the team who I felt had it out for me. He would constantly call me in an open team room and remind me that I was a 29 year old 2nd year analyst. I was also only taught how H2C securities built presentations and models from 1st year Analyst with less tenure than me. I was let go 9 months after my leave of absence and given 7 more days of pay. I never found another finance job and currently work at a retail store. The leave of absence was to help me but instead ruined my career. I don’t think they are a reputable bank because I had more job offers without them on my resume. My advice to them would be to have a level of understanding and to teach Analyst, overall just give people you hire a chance.

13 Comments
 

It sounds like you've had a really tough experience, and it's unfortunate to hear how things unfolded at Fifth Third Bank and H2C. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are a few insights and suggestions that might resonate with your situation:

  1. Toxic Work Environments in Banking: Unfortunately, stories like yours aren't uncommon in the banking world. Many analysts and associates report similar experiences of being undervalued, overworked, or placed in situations where they feel unsupported. The culture at some banks can be unforgiving, especially when personal challenges arise, such as taking a leave of absence.

  2. Career Recovery After a Setback: While it may feel like your career in finance has been derailed, many professionals have successfully pivoted after similar experiences. Consider:

    • Networking: Reconnect with former colleagues, alumni, or mentors who can vouch for your skills and work ethic. Networking is often the key to finding new opportunities in finance.
    • Rebranding: If you feel that including Fifth Third Bank on your resume is a hindrance, focus on highlighting your skills, achievements, and other experiences. Tailor your resume to emphasize your strengths and downplay the negative experience.
    • Upskilling: Consider taking courses or certifications (e.g., CFA, financial modeling) to demonstrate your commitment to the industry and fill any perceived gaps.
  3. Addressing Gaps in Employment: If you're currently working in retail, frame it positively. Highlight transferable skills like customer service, problem-solving, and adaptability. Employers value resilience and the ability to bounce back from challenges.

  4. Mental Health and Support: Taking a leave of absence for personal reasons is nothing to be ashamed of. It's important to prioritize your well-being. If you're still feeling the effects of your experience, consider seeking support from a career coach or therapist who specializes in workplace trauma.

  5. Lessons for the Future: While your experience at Fifth Third Bank was negative, it can serve as a learning opportunity. When evaluating future employers, research their culture, values, and treatment of employees. Sites like WSO, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn can provide valuable insights.

Remember, setbacks are temporary, and many professionals have faced similar challenges only to come back stronger. Keep pushing forward, and don't let one bad experience define your career. If you're looking for specific advice on re-entering finance or pivoting to a new role, feel free to ask!

Sources: Anyone else fed up with the banking/finance industy?, 1st Yr Banking Analyst Open for Questions, Q&A: 1st Year Analyst at MM IB, What is it like to be a partner at Goldman Sachs?, Anyone else fed up with the banking/finance industy?

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 
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He would constantly call me in an open team room and remind me that I was a 29 year old 2nd year analyst

Hindsight is 20/20 but when they start crossing into personal territory like this insulting your age, gender, orientation, etc that’s when you need to lawyer up and file an HR compliant. If they were going to fire you anyway you could have at least had a lawyer get you a negotiated severance in exchange for not filing a retaliation case, or file anyway and get a settlement. 

 
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