How long to wait before recruiting
I am currently in a position where I recently graduated and went back full-time to where I did my final year's internship. I am an M&A analyst on a F500 Corp-Dev team but been wanting to make the switch over to IB. Currently have been on the team for 6 months and am getting decent deal exposure to build up my resume.
My worry is that banks would look poorly at such a short time spent at my first role so I wanted to get people's opinion on if I should wait out another 3-6 months or if I am in the clear to start recruiting again.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, transitioning from a corporate development role to investment banking is a common path, but timing is crucial. While six months in your current role has given you some deal exposure, banks might view a short tenure as a lack of commitment. To strengthen your candidacy:
Wait at least 12 months: Spending a full year in your current role will demonstrate stability and allow you to gain more substantial deal experience. This will make your resume more competitive and reduce concerns about job-hopping.
Focus on deal experience: Highlighting notable deals and your specific contributions is key. Even if deals don’t close, showcasing your involvement in the process (e.g., valuations, comps, negotiations) will make your resume more IB-centric.
Network strategically: Start networking now, even if you plan to wait a few more months before actively recruiting. Building relationships with bankers and alumni can help you position yourself for lateral opportunities when the time is right.
Tailor your resume: Emphasize your M&A experience, deal exposure, and transferable skills. Make it clear how your corporate development background aligns with the demands of IB.
If you feel confident in your deal exposure and networking progress, you could start testing the waters in 3-6 months. However, waiting until you hit the 12-month mark might give you a stronger foundation to make the switch.
Sources: corporate development regrets?, On-Cycle, IB Offers, Hair Splitting, Depression, and "The Path", Transitioning from Tech Sales to IB, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/private-equity/going-from-mm-investment-bank-to-mega-fund?customgpt=1, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/m7-ib-associate-full-time-recruiting?customgpt=1
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