How acceptable are beards in IB?

Incoming analyst. Did my SA stint and noticed a couple analysts who had beards but also know they are exiting. Am thinking of being a career banker, and as ridiculous as it sounds, I noticed not a single VP or above had a beard in my group. Also noticed that the notable people in banking (thinking Jamie Dimon, D Sol, Peter Orszag, Ken Moelis etc.) do not have beards.

I think this will change as the older generations retire in the next decade or so, but am wondering what everyone's thoughts are on rocking a beard...I mean if the VP elect has a beard why can't a junior banker?? 

Yes, I can grow a full beard that doesn't look prepubescent...more so wondering if a neat beard could (not necessarily WOULD but COULD) have negative implications in the long run

15 Comments
 

Not acceptable, you will look like one of the below:

- Foreigner/ethnic (Ex: Swarthy tanned spanish/italian looks like a turk/arab with a beard)

- Hippie (Kamala voter who wears beanies, skateboards and gets lattes with oat milk)

- Homeless (Self explanatory)

- Wannabe tough guy/alpha male (Guys who quote andrew tate/guys who film themselves cold approaching on TikTok)

 

Had a moustache in my SA interview, got the gig, took a bit of shit for it over the summer but didnt shave it. Got the return offer. Nobody cares at the lower levels as long as youre good at your job. Once at VP+ maybe it matters but until then we are all just monkeys. Do whatever helps you get the best chicks. God bless

 

Only ever seen it work on ppl from the Middle East. If you’re Caucasian or Asian just stay clean shaven

 

Some guys on my team are bearded. Key is to maintain it though, they get made fun of when they look scruffy.

 

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