Graduated a Year Ago and Struggling to Break into IB/ER.

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some actionable steps and advice to help you break into investment banking (IB) or equity research (ER):

Leveraging Your Background

1. Highlight Relevant Experience:

   • FX Sales Role: Emphasize your experience in cold calling and pitching, which demonstrates your sales skills and resilience.
   • Fintech Internship: Focus on your modeling and pitch book creation skills, which are directly relevant to IB and ER.
   • Risk & Data Analyst Intern: Showcase your analytical skills and experience with a large asset manager, which adds credibility to your profile.
   • Buy-Side Equity Research Intern: Highlight your research and analytical skills, which are crucial for ER roles.

2. Create a Cohesive Narrative:

   • Frame your diverse experiences as a journey that has equipped you with a broad skill set. For example, your risk analysis background provides a strong foundation in understanding financial risks, while your FX sales role demonstrates your ability to handle high-pressure situations and communicate effectively.

General Career Advice

1. Networking:

   • Leverage Alumni Networks: Reach out to alumni from your university who are working in IB or ER. They can provide insights, referrals, and potentially open doors for you.
   • Attend Industry Events: Participate in finance-related conferences, webinars, and networking events to meet professionals in the field.
   • LinkedIn: Use LinkedIn to connect with professionals in IB and ER. Personalize your connection requests and engage with their content to build relationships.

2. Skill Enhancement:

   • Online Courses: Consider taking online courses related to financial modeling, valuation, and other relevant skills. Platforms like Wall Street Oasis offer courses that can help you strengthen your technical skills.
   • Certifications: Pursue certifications such as CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) to enhance your credibility and knowledge in finance.

3. Resume and Interview Preparation:

   • Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume for each application, emphasizing the skills and experiences most relevant to the job description.
   • Mock Interviews: Practice with mock interviews to improve your responses and build confidence. Focus on both technical questions and behavioral questions.

4. Consider Alternative Paths:

   • Corporate Development: Look into corporate development roles, which often require similar skills to IB and can serve as a stepping stone.
   • Boutique Firms: Apply to smaller boutique investment banks or research firms, which may have less stringent entry requirements and can provide valuable experience.

Addressing Employment Gaps

• Freelance or Consulting Work: Consider taking on freelance or consulting projects related to finance to fill the gap and demonstrate continued engagement in the field.
• Volunteering: Volunteer for finance-related non-profits or community organizations to gain experience and expand your network.

Mental and Emotional Well-being

• Stay Positive: Job searching can be challenging, but maintaining a positive attitude is crucial. Set small, achievable goals to keep yourself motivated.
• Seek Support: Talk to friends, family, or mentors about your challenges. Sometimes, a fresh perspective can provide new ideas and encouragement.

By following these steps, you can effectively leverage your background, enhance your skills, and improve your chances of breaking into investment banking or equity research. Good luck!

Sources: Nine Months of Soul-Crushing Unemployment - Advice Needed, graduated may 2019 and recently laid off first job, Please Advise: Never-Ending Job Hunt, Laid off, Depressed and Giving up..., https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/laid-off-in-may-at-my-wits-end?customgpt=1