Sick and tired of having to work with MBAs and hardo VPs. I've started logging off and going to bed at 1am while the rest of my team is still on (ASO and VP) until 3am or 4am . How long until I get let go? I produce quality work and am liked by most. I just can't tolerate the assholes and hardos anymore.
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Based on the most helpful WSO content, your situation might not necessarily lead to termination if you are producing quality work and are generally well-liked. However, there are a few factors to consider:
Reputation and Perception: If your team or seniors perceive your actions as a lack of commitment, it could harm your reputation. While producing quality work is crucial, the perception of being a "team player" often matters just as much in high-pressure environments like investment banking.
Team Dynamics: If your VP or ASO are "hardo" types who expect everyone to grind late into the night, your decision to log off earlier might create friction. However, if you have built a strong reputation and your seniors value your contributions, they might overlook this behavior.
Pushback Culture: As highlighted in WSO threads, some professionals have successfully pushed back against unreasonable hours or toxic team dynamics. For instance, one user mentioned refusing to work with a notorious VP and still receiving great reviews. This suggests that if you handle the situation tactfully, you might avoid negative consequences.
Market Environment: The current market environment can also play a role. If the firm is in a cost-cutting phase or if there’s a surplus of talent, it might increase the risk of being let go. Conversely, if you’re in a high-demand role or team, your position might be more secure.
To navigate this, consider: - Communicating with Your Staffer: Build trust and have an honest dialogue about your workload and hours. This can help manage expectations and show that you’re not disengaged but rather prioritizing efficiency and well-being. - Setting Boundaries Strategically: If you decide to continue logging off earlier, ensure your work is impeccable and deadlines are met. This minimizes the chance of complaints about your performance. - Evaluating Your Long-Term Fit: If the culture and dynamics are unbearable, it might be worth exploring other opportunities where the work-life balance aligns better with your preferences.
Ultimately, while your current approach might not immediately lead to termination, it’s essential to manage perceptions and maintain open communication to protect your position.
Sources: Work/Life Balance - Hours, How Do You Deal With the BB Sweatshop Hours?, Guess WFH hours aren't so great, Watching others leave early is demoralizing - what do I do?, WSO 2022 Investment Banking Work-Conditions Survey (Part 1/3)
Doesn't sounds like they can fire you if the work you produce is good quality and you meet deadlines when needed. Logging off before others may be seen as "not being a team player" and that could reflect more on culture / attitude more than any practical component. I can't imagine this leading to anything more than a slight docking of bonus for BS "cultural" reasons. Having said that, it seems you're a bit checked out and would maybe consider seeking exits.
Disagree here. Banking work isn’t hard, mistakes happen even at the senior level and many turn a blind eye because of the the fast turn around of the work and expecting a few mistakes. The issue is that if they want to fire OP they’ll just make an example out of him and use what everyone gets a pass for as a reason to can him. Banking firing is highly highly political unless you’re absolutely dogshit at your job.
Right, but I can't imagine this applying here is the work is done well. We're talking about finishing a couple of hours "earlier" but still at 1am. If OP clocked in at 11am and out at 10pm then sure, that'd be a clear "can't be fucked" attitude
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