older fellow in a coffee chat told me that when he was recruiting you'd typically get dinged for recruiting for both like S&T and IB because it looks like you don't know what you want to do. is that the same with ER and IB today?
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Recruiting for both Equity Research (ER) and Investment Banking (IB) simultaneously can indeed raise concerns, as it might signal to recruiters that you lack a clear focus or direction. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some key points to consider:
Perception of Focus: Just like the older example you mentioned with S&T and IB, recruiting for both ER and IB can make it seem like you're unsure about your career goals. Both fields require different skill sets and mindsets, and recruiters often look for candidates who demonstrate a strong commitment to one path.
Differences in Career Ladders: IB has a more structured and predictable career ladder compared to ER. In IB, promotions are almost guaranteed at the junior level, while ER promotions can be more challenging due to structural issues like MiFID II and internal conflicts over stock coverage. This difference might make it harder to justify why you're pursuing both paths simultaneously.
Recruiter Expectations: Recruiters in both fields are likely to probe your motivations during interviews. If you're applying to both, you need to be prepared to articulate why each role aligns with your skills and long-term goals without coming across as indecisive.
Strategic Approach: If you genuinely have an interest in both fields, it’s crucial to tailor your approach. For example:
Ultimately, while it’s not impossible to recruit for both, doing so requires careful planning and a clear narrative to avoid being perceived as unfocused.
Sources: Should I Slow Down?, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/m7-ib-associate-full-time-recruiting?customgpt=1, Career Ladder: Equity Research vs. Investment Banking - (A Definitive Guide, Part 3), https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/equity-research/career-ladder-equity-research-vs-investment-banking-a-definitive-guide-part-3?customgpt=1
Pick a path western man.
How would they know unless ur applying to two different roles in the same bank?
I mean I would be applying to different roles at the same bank most likely at most places I'd be happy banking at I'd be happy doing ER at. A friend at school told me these banks are so huge they dont care it mainly matters for EBs and whatnot, would you say this is true
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