Long break between analyst to associate stint possible?
Third-year analyst at an EB set to receive my A2A promotion this summer. I really like the group I am in and the seniors have hinted multiple times that they see me to have the potential to stay in the group for the long run, and currently I am pretty set on doing banking long-term. The problem is I am quite burnt out right now and have some non-urgent but extremely annoying health issues that have been driving me crazy. Mental and physical health have deteriorated significantly this past few months as result.
I honestly believe a long break from work (a sabbatical for several months) is what I need to recharge. But how will seniors think if I suggest this idea? I have a feeling they won't consent to it and I may just have to quit, take the break on my own, and recruit back into the industry once I am ready again. Do you guys know of people who have done this?
Why not ask? Worst they can say is no
I thought a sabbatical for A to A was pretty standard...
Normally speaking, you would have ~4weeks (exact amount of time depends on where you work) of paid protected vacation/sabbatical when you get promoted. In addition, a lot of firms allow you to take a sabbatical for health reasons (you might be unpaid though). I'd recommend speaking to HR/benefits and understand your firm's policy a little better. Then, speak to the seniors about it. Since you're already prepared to quit, you literally don't lose anything by asking. I'd say if you would wanna take 3-4 months off, they would likely say yes. If longer, then I'm not quite sure.
If it's unpaid, I don't see any reason why they wouldn't be okay with you taking a longer several month break before jumping back into things. You have proven yourself for several years and will be one of the few associates who won't be some MBA they have to train and spend several months of time and money getting up to speed with.
You should absolutely discuss this with your mentor within the firm. Having a candid conversation is much better than just quitting randomly due to burnout. Caveat is it has to be someone you trust.
Hi OP, hope all is well with you. I’m curious what has led you to want to stay in banking long term as I’m considering that route as well
I don't think I've heard of any bank allowing more than 8 weeks but surely you should speak with your seniors. If you want something substantial like 6~12 months, you prolly would have to quit but it wouldn't be hard to come back or lateral to another bank as a 3rd year analyst. Though u might have to sacrifice a year, I think it's worth it. One of my associates did just that - left his previous bank durung hjs 3rd year as analyst, took a 1-year break to be with his newborn child and help his s/o, and re-recruited for senior analyst and associate positions. He was quickly promoted to associate a year after he joined our group as A3.
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