How do you guys do this?

Consultant here. I’ve been staffed on CDD engagements and hating it for the hours. 
 

I work for a Big 4 and we our CF people do valuation and everything so basically a MM IB from what I’m aware. 
 

We usually advise buyers and the counterparts I’ve seen MM banks and some BBs

Originally I was aiming to go MBA then IB but after looking at the buy side CF people and sell side bankers exchange emails at 2AM, I genuinely think it would destroy my health. 

3 Comments
 

Based on previous WSO threads, here are some insights on handling the demanding hours in consulting and investment banking:

  1. Understanding the Workload:

    • Consulting, especially in CDD (Commercial Due Diligence) engagements, can be intense with long hours, similar to those in investment banking.
    • Big 4 firms often have their Corporate Finance (CF) teams handle valuations, making them comparable to middle-market (MM) investment banks.
  2. Health and Work-Life Balance:

    • The demanding nature of both consulting and investment banking can take a toll on your health. It's crucial to set boundaries and prioritize self-care.
    • Consider the long-term impact on your health and personal life when deciding whether to pursue an MBA and transition to investment banking.
  3. Career Path Considerations:

    • If the hours and stress of investment banking are a concern, explore other career paths within finance that might offer a better work-life balance.
    • Roles in corporate finance, financial planning and analysis (FP&A), or even transitioning to a less demanding consulting role could be viable alternatives.
  4. Networking and Mentorship:

    • Seek advice from mentors or colleagues who have made similar transitions. They can provide valuable insights and help you weigh the pros and cons.
    • Networking within your firm and industry can also open up opportunities that align better with your career goals and lifestyle preferences.
  5. Evaluating the MBA Route:

    • An MBA can be a valuable stepping stone, but it's essential to consider the return on investment, especially if you're concerned about the lifestyle in investment banking.
    • Research MBA programs that offer strong finance tracks and have a good track record of placing graduates in roles that interest you.

By considering these factors, you can make a more informed decision about your career path and find a balance that works for you.

Sources: How do you guys get called out on mistakes? Opinion needed, How do you guys organize yourselves?

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Accusantium atque qui aut dolorem sit placeat laborum. Rerum architecto incidunt rerum autem quod laudantium eos. Et ut voluptas explicabo assumenda veniam consequatur sunt.

Est fugit reiciendis ut voluptatem animi mollitia quasi. Numquam et quae error fuga. Animi aut et aut alias omnis. Consequatur deleniti animi et quisquam. Laboriosam consequuntur numquam cum laboriosam. Illum optio ad in dolor quos fugiat itaque.

Career Advancement Opportunities

September 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.4%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.9%
  • Goldman Sachs 02 97.4%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

September 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.5%
  • Morgan Stanley 02 98.9%
  • Evercore 01 98.4%
  • Banco Santander 02 97.9%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.4%

Professional Growth Opportunities

September 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 98.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.9%
  • JPMorgan No 97.4%

Total Avg Compensation

September 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (16) $429
  • Associates (53) $259
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (28) $184
  • Intern/Summer Associate (16) $161
  • 1st Year Analyst (84) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (76) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
3
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
4
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
5
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
6
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
7
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
98.9
8
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
9
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
10
Linda Abraham's picture
Linda Abraham
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”