How to Fast Track Your Analyst Years?

Hi all!

Incoming OC at top EB in London.

Want to note that I’m not trying to get ahead of myself here, just a general question and one of those daydreaming scenarios I wanted to ask about!

So I’m from a non-target, networked like crazy and after a lot of disappointment (like everyone else here), managed to get an OC offer from my dream firm in my dream group (insanely happy).

I’m just wondering a hypothetical here, but let’s say they extend me an offer post-OC, how can I make it possible to fast track my An years? (I mean go from An1 to An3 or An2 to Aso1)

Is this even possible? Does one bring it up to seniors/MDs or does it happen when you’re just plainly really good?

Again, I’m not trying to be delusional. As I said, from a non-target MSc, but currently An3 in a T1 firm in emerging Europe so I have the basics down, excel, ppt, am not afraid to speak with clients, know when to shut up etc. I just want to know if it’s possible to jump over a level at an EB and how to potentially do it? What do seniors notice in these instances most?

All answers appreciated!

24 Comments
 

Not seen it happen with my own two eyes, but a friend at an MM bank was told he was a candidate for being fast tracked to Aso, but then he moved to a BB so that was that. He was an absolute killer there though.

 

Generally banks don’t early promote unless the labor market is very competitive. Much easier to skip the 3rd analyst year at banks that do that in 2021 and 2022 since so many people were leaving. In 2023 and 2024 there’s no reason for banks to early promote.


Also, wouldn’t worry about it a ton in your shoes, 1 year difference won’t matter a ton and you haven’t even started the job yet

 

If it's PJT, it's not possible to fast track.  They have a strict analyst program where they want ppl to rotate and finish their program. 

 
Most Helpful

I was getting rejection after rejection, as usual. One day I had enough - knew I was at a disadvantage, being a non target + requiring sponsorship so had to stand out.

Started writing letters and delivering them by hand to SMDs and Partners in Mayfair (very targeted, new the ins and outs, whole careers of the seniors and firms).

Started writing emails, saying so and so, attaching my cv and asking for coffee. Then accidentally stumble upon an article praising one of the rainmakers in my desired coverage team, so I learned more about him and sent an email.

To my surprise he replied the same day, saying he couldn’t really help himself but put me through to HR.

Fastforward a few more events (unrelated to networking) and I reapplied, was given an AC and then an offer.

As a p.s., I got email replies to a couple of handwritten letters and emails but this was my dream firm, and I wasn’t about to miss this opportunity.

P.p.s. No matter what Geography you are, NETWORK.

 
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