I suck at my current role (M&A)
HI everyone,
I am a second-year analyst at BB in a regional office and I am now realizing that I just suck at my job.
During my reviews, nothing major came up (think you're 'in line with expectations' but you could improve attention to details etc). Really your regular BS - except they say I am deeply appreciated by people (IMO because I have 'great personality' in this shitty industry) and also I am super willing (will always reach out to the staffer when I have capacity because I feel that's how I will learn anyway and always ask relevant questions about business/industry)
But to be honest, I feel I am below average. Truth is I still make really stupid mistakes when I am tired and I am struggling to manage it all (execute AND understand the logic behind the model for eg). I had a really bad day today and I feel worthless because these tasks that I suck at could easily be done by a monkey (literally)
It's been really frustrating because I've always been a top-performer at school and always strive for excellence in my life. This time, I just came to the conclusion that I can't do it because to be honest, I also don't take interest in copying/pasting logos and recycling pages from previous decks...
I am now reconsidering my career path because even though I really like finance / looking at financial profiles of different companies, getting in the tactics of a deal, trying to learn more abt an industry etc, I feel I won't be good enough in the long run. I wanted to interview for PE as well but I don't think with these kinds of mistakes, I have what it takes to be a good investor
What do you think? Has anyone experienced the same reflection?
Any advice on how to handle it? What other job could I consider?
Thx
Felt the same way. It will probably get worse, then it will get better.
Now it's easy for me
If you don’t have a passion for this job (few do - I certainly don’t) it can be hard to both do work correctly & commit things to memory so you are learning in a structured way and not just getting by. The upside is that this job is not very complicated, it’s just a matter of reps. So that feeling of being behind the curve will fade over time as long as you keep applying yourself. What will not fade, unfortunately, is the feeling that you should be doing something else with your time than sticking around in a job you don’t actually enjoy.
Hey there! It sounds like you're going through a classic case of self-doubt, which, believe it or not, is more common than you might think in high-pressure environments like M&A. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a bunch of bananas... I mean, advice, to help you swing back up to the top of the tree:
Embrace the Learning Curve: Remember, even the best in the business had to start somewhere. Making mistakes is part of the learning process, especially in a complex field like M&A. It's not about avoiding mistakes altogether but learning from them and improving over time.
Attention to Detail: If attention to detail is an area for improvement, consider developing a checklist or a system to catch errors. This could be as simple as taking a short break before reviewing your work or having a peer do a quick run-through.
Workload Management: Feeling overwhelmed can lead to burnout and mistakes. Prioritize your tasks and don't be afraid to communicate with your team if you're struggling with the workload. It's better to manage expectations than to underdeliver.
Seek Feedback: Since you're appreciated for your personality and willingness, use that to your advantage. Seek out mentors or colleagues who can provide constructive feedback and guidance on how to improve in your role.
Consider Your Interests: You mentioned enjoying finance and the strategic aspects of deals. Perhaps a role that's more focused on analysis rather than execution might suit you better. Roles in corporate development, strategy, or even a move to a boutique firm with a different pace could be more aligned with your interests.
Private Equity: If PE is your goal, don't count yourself out just yet. PE firms value diverse skill sets, and your willingness to learn and ask questions is a plus. Focus on honing the skills that will make you a strong investor, like financial analysis and market understanding.
Alternative Paths: If you decide that M&A isn't for you, there are plenty of other finance-related roles that might be a better fit. Consider asset management, equity research, or even financial advisory services.
Remember, feeling incompetent at times doesn't mean you are incompetent. It's a sign that you're pushing your boundaries and growing. Keep swinging, and you'll find the right branch that can support your career aspirations. And hey, if all else fails, you can always join me in the jungle of finance – it's a wild ride, but there's always room for one more monkey! 🐒
Sources: Feeling useless at work, Anyone else get overwhelmed by their career sometimes?, Unhappy/depressed in my risk modeling position - suck it up or go back to academia?, Feeling incompetent because I can't code?, 2nd thoughts about accepted PE offer. Feeling very under-qualified.
Do not underestimate how important it is to be likeable and appreciated. Sometimes that's all it takes to survive and rise through the ranks.
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