How bad is leaving after a few months

Leaving a role after just a few months can have significant implications, but it’s not necessarily career-ending. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s what you need to consider:

1. Short Tenures and Perception

• Leaving a role after a few months can raise red flags for future employers. It may signal a lack of commitment or an inability to handle challenges, especially in high-pressure fields like banking or Lev Fin.
• Recruiters and hiring managers might question your decision-making process or your ability to adapt to new environments. However, if you’re transitioning to a non-banking field (e.g., WM, FP&A, corporate roles), the impact might be less severe since those industries often value stability and work-life balance over the grind of banking.

2. Burning Bridges

• Exiting a group after a short stint could damage relationships with your current team. Banking is a small world, and reputations travel fast. If you leave, ensure you do so professionally, with clear communication and minimal disruption to your team.
• That said, some WSO threads suggest that burning bridges may not matter as much in the long run, especially if you’re moving to a completely different industry. However, it’s always better to leave on good terms.

3. Returning to Banking

• Coming back to banking after leaving can be challenging, especially if you’re out of the industry for a few years. While DCM might be more forgiving than other areas, you’ll likely need to explain the gap and your reasons for leaving convincingly.
• If you do decide to leave, maintaining strong relationships with former colleagues and keeping your technical skills sharp will improve your chances of re-entry.

4. Alternative Paths

• If you’re unhappy but unsure about leaving, consider coasting for a bit while you figure things out. As one WSO thread suggests, taking a step back, reducing stress, and reassessing your priorities might help you regain clarity.
• Another option is to explore internal mobility within your bank. If Lev Fin isn’t the right fit, perhaps there’s another group or role that aligns better with your interests and lifestyle.

5. Key Considerations

• Money vs. Happiness: Banking offers great compensation, but it comes at a cost. If your mental health and happiness are suffering, a move to a less stressful role might be worth it.
• Long-Term Goals: Think about where you want to be in 5-10 years. If banking or the buyside isn’t part of that vision, leaving now might not be a bad idea.
• Exit Strategy: If you decide to leave, have a clear plan for your next step. Recruiters and future employers will want to see that your decision was thoughtful and aligned with your career goals.

Final Thoughts

Leaving after a few months isn’t ideal, but it’s not insurmountable. If you’re transitioning to a non-banking role, the impact will likely be less severe. However, if there’s even a small chance you might want to return to banking, tread carefully. Consider sticking it out for at least a year to solidify your experience and avoid the “job hopper” label. Whatever you decide, prioritize your long-term happiness and career goals.

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/breaking-into-private-equity-from-banking?customgpt=1, Should I leave PE after a month and go back to my MBB?, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/private-equity/leave-pe-early-or-stick-it-out-2-years?customgpt=1, Burned Out - Quitting w/o an offer?, I don't know if investment banking is right for me anymore