I think i will get a subpar first year review
First year analyst at a BB.
My first year didn't go great. A lot of attention to detail errors early on but has significantly improved. My two most recent deals that I've been staffed on have gone really well. The people I worked with on these two also had high praise for my work output, diligence etc. Even got a comment that I have started to perform above the expectation of a first year on a particular transaction.
But earlier deals, there was one VP who I am convinced just does not like me because would just nitpick and be unconstructive. He would give wildly unclear instructions, refuse to elaborate, refuse to jump on calls, and get mad and gaslight saying that what I had done was obviously not what he had in mind. He also misrepresented my work output saying that it was all obviously wrong and that I did not use his template which was correct (I did use the template, the work I produced was objectively correct - he just did not review properly and shut me down saying I was "arguing" when I pointed out that I had done as he said and that the work was exactly as intended). I caught up with him to get feedback and he said it was like I did not care about the work, which is just not true and is not the feedback I have gotten from others in the team.
I think that as a first year, most people get an average review irrespective of performance, but I will need to see. I am unsure of how to approach things if my manager brings up a lot of stuff that this VP has said because frankly, as I said, a lot of it is just misrepresentation. I gave a lot of benefit of the doubt but I genuinely think he is taking out some sort of dislike of me through very poor reviews.
However, I am moving to a different team next month which is completely different to what I am doing now. This person, I won't ever need to work with again. So, my question is, how much does a not stellar first year review affect me going into my second year if I am going into a new team? I could imagine if I stayed in this team there would be issues where he would keep raising "attitude" problems or whatever and eventually have me out of the bank. But the team I am going to, I click with the people a lot more, and is a fresh start for me.
Appreciate your tips and advice.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:
Impact of a Subpar First-Year Review:
A subpar first-year review can have some lingering effects, but it’s not necessarily a career-ender, especially if you're moving to a new team. In your current team, a bad review might lead to increased scrutiny and nitpicking, as some users on WSO have noted. However, since you're transitioning to a new team, this provides a clean slate and an opportunity to rebuild your reputation.
Fresh Start in a New Team:
Moving to a new team is a significant advantage. As highlighted in WSO threads, a fresh start can do wonders for your confidence and workplace perception. The new team likely won’t be as influenced by the opinions of your previous VP, especially if you demonstrate strong performance and build positive relationships from the outset.
Addressing the Review:
If your manager brings up the VP’s feedback during your review, focus on:
Building Relationships in the New Team:
Long-Term Perspective:
While first-year reviews are important, they don’t define your entire career. Consistency and stability are key, as mentioned in WSO discussions. Focus on maintaining strong performance in your new team, and over time, any negative impressions from your first year will fade.
In summary, your move to a new team is a golden opportunity to reset and thrive. Use this fresh start to demonstrate your growth, build strong relationships, and deliver excellent work. Keep your head up—many professionals have bounced back from similar situations and gone on to have successful careers.
Sources: Annual Review was bad how do I bounce back?, Performance of Top Tier vs. Bottom Tier Analysts (Q&A in Comments), 1st Year Analyst - Vent - take this personally or not?, 1st Year Analysts Quitting?, Confessions of a former second year IB Analyst
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