How easy/hard is it to get blacklisted from ib recruiting ?

Getting blacklisted from investment banking (IB) recruiting is not as difficult as you might think if you cross certain lines, even unintentionally. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some key behaviors and actions that could lead to being blacklisted:

1. Disrespecting Analysts/Associates' Time

• While you mentioned being mindful of their time, even subtle missteps like asking too many unnecessary questions, interrupting them, or failing to respect their boundaries can leave a bad impression. For example, if you keep them on a call longer than necessary or ask questions you could have easily Googled, it signals a lack of preparation and respect.

2. Using Inappropriate Vocabulary

• Avoid using overly casual or unprofessional language. For instance:
  • Referring to someone as "bro," "dude," or similar terms during a call or meeting.
  • Swearing, even if the banker seems laid-back or uses casual language themselves.
  • Overusing finance buzzwords or coming across as a "finance hardo" (someone trying too hard to sound knowledgeable).
• These behaviors can make you seem unprofessional or out of touch with the culture.

3. Bringing Up Taboo Topics

• Certain topics are off-limits in conversations, especially during networking or informational interviews:
  • Salary discussions: Asking about compensation during an informational interview is a major red flag and can lead to your resume being discarded.
  • Overly personal questions: Keep the conversation professional and avoid prying into their personal lives.

4. Being a Brown-Noser or Desperate

• Over-embellishing your language or excessively flattering the firm or individual can backfire. For example:
  • Saying things like, "I was SO ELATED to hear from you that Goldman doesn’t treat its analysts like cogs in the wheel" comes across as insincere and desperate.
  • Instead, use honest, everyday language to frame yourself as someone they would be lucky to have, not the other way around.

5. Unprofessional Behavior in Social Settings

• Stories from WSO highlight how inappropriate behavior outside the office can also lead to blacklisting:
  • Talking about material nonpublic information (e.g., deals) in casual settings like bars.
  • Dressing inappropriately for the office, which can lead to negative gossip and damage your reputation.

6. Failing the "Airport Test"

• Bankers often evaluate candidates based on whether they would want to spend long hours or be stuck at an airport with them. If you come across as awkward, overly rigid, or unrelatable, it can hurt your chances.

7. Being Pushy or Overstepping Boundaries

• If a banker declines to stay in touch or doesn’t respond to your follow-ups, don’t push it. Being overly persistent can make you seem desperate or annoying.

Final Thoughts:

The key to avoiding the blacklist is professionalism, preparation, and self-awareness. Be respectful, use appropriate language, and focus on building genuine connections. If you’re unsure about something, err on the side of caution—better to be slightly reserved than to risk making a bad impression.

Sources: How to earn respect from your analysts?, Can I pick an Analyst's Brain for a Second?, PLEASE Don't Go Into Banking - From BB Top Bucket Analyst, Cold email advice from analyst, Protips: Not Being Awkward