Not Enjoying Role, How Early is Lateraling Possible?

Hello all,

Recently started as an analyst at a well-known MM bank in NY in CB and have learned a lot, but honestly not enjoying the role as much as I expected. The work itself isn’t terrible, just isn’t what I would like to be doing/see myself doing in the foreseeable future, combined with a rough culture that’s unenjoyable. I’m looking to try and move to another bank within the same role, although I’m not sure if a short stint will raise eyebrows. Curious if any of you have made a similar move as an analyst, and how the process was? Does it make it a bit easier if the move is from CB to CB compared to lateraling to an entirely different role? Would appreciate any advice!

5 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, lateraling early in your career is possible, but it comes with challenges and risks. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Timing Matters:

    • If you attempt to lateral too early (e.g., within the first few months), it can raise red flags for potential employers. Interviewers may question your commitment and reliability, especially if you haven’t stayed long enough to demonstrate your skills or gain meaningful experience.
    • A general recommendation is to stay at least six months to a year before considering a move. This gives you time to build credibility and avoid being labeled as a "job hopper."
  2. CB to CB Lateral Moves:

    • Moving within the same role (CB to CB) is generally easier than switching to a different function like IB or PE. The skills are more transferable, and you won’t need to justify a significant career pivot.
    • However, even for a CB-to-CB move, you’ll need a strong reason for the lateral. Focus on factors like culture fit, deal exposure, or platform size rather than dissatisfaction with your current role.
  3. Risks of Early Moves:

    • Lateraling too soon can burn bridges with your current employer, especially if you leave before completing a full year. This could impact your references and reputation in the industry.
    • Additionally, you’ll need to rebuild your reputation and relationships at the new bank, which can be challenging.
  4. Advice for the Process:

    • Be strategic about your reasons for lateraling. Frame it as a desire for better opportunities, deal flow, or alignment with long-term career goals rather than dissatisfaction.
    • Use job boards like Indeed.com and network actively to identify lateral opportunities. Most lateral roles open up after bonus season (June/July), so timing your move around then could be advantageous.

If you’re set on lateraling, ensure you’ve thought through the potential downsides and have a clear, compelling narrative for why you’re making the move.

Sources: Lateraling Guide for Investment Banking, Advice for New Analysts Seeking PE Exits, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/breaking-into-private-equity-from-banking?customgpt=1, Breaking into Private Equity from Banking, Lateraling Guide for Investment Banking

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Lateraling is not at all atypical and movement is predicated by need / market. In tougher markets not as much hiring and higher scrutiny / bar for candidates as a lot out there in active markets you see a lot of flexibility and movement. I would just have a story together as to why the move and make is less “rough culture” (which could be ancillary) and tie to experience, reps, opportunity etc. The reality is if someone is speaking with you there is likely a need and they are already showing they are open to hiring a lateral. In long run trajectory, movement can be explained especially if going to a platform that offers something incrementally tangible (flow, work, mentorship, trajectory etc). I wouldn’t overthink it and would focus on narrative and just make reflect as to if what you define as culture may be an industry norm or an anomaly there. Grass is always greener on other side and realize every platform has its outs and takes. Hope this helps. 

 

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