Note Taking During as SA
Starting my SA role in a few weeks and starting to make a list of things I need to do/have to be prepared. I have always heard that SA's are expected to carry a notebook around and take notes on everything. Was wondering if someone could give more explaination on that. Does it need to be your typical Five Star notebook or is that too big and something more compact is recommended? Also now that everyone takes notes on their computer is it apporopriate to take notes there? or would it seem disrespectful if you are constantly typing away on your computer when someone is explaining something to you. Any guidance on note taking as an SA would be really helpful.
I just finished my SA stint last year at a BB in London, from uni friends in the US I hear they are very similar (except for the lower pay lol) so wanted to share my experience. First thing to remember is that most of the things you worry about are not worth the stress and will become clear once you hit the desk. If you are allocated a buddy/mentor make sure to grab a coffee with them when you start to ask for the best practices and write those down.
Dont worry about the type of notebook, you will usually have some induction day or training before starting where the firm will give you a notebook and water bottle. If they dont any small leather notebook is fine.
In terms of what to write down: dont write down everything you see or hear, this can make you look like a tryhard and also makes it harder to find more important notes later. I did that during my first week and got the tip from my analyst that its better to pay full attention and only write stuff down that seems important or confuses you so you can look it up later.
Always make written notes when somebody is explaining something new to you or when you asked for help, not only will this improve your memory but it also shows the person taking the time to explain it to you that you appreciate what they are telling you. For informal conversations or coffee chats I would just try to write stuff down when you get back to your desk or quickly on your phone (tell them you grab the phone for that purpose).
I would usually only take notes on my computer if it was during an online meeting, many times I learned something new I would be sitting next to the analyst or associate at their desk so having my notebook at hand meant I could write along with what we were looking at. Also advise to write down dates and topics or use some coloured tabs if you tend to lose track of notes. Big perk is that when you have a moment you can browse your notebook and reflect on what you learned or the stuff you have to do, this can come in handy during reviews with HR etc.
Hope this helps! Iet me know if you have any more questions
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