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October 31, 2026
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I know of someone who started out in a BO role and eventually got into AM - it took a couple of years and a lot of hustle. It might be harder in IBD though, I mostly know of people in 'less-prestigious' IB groups that lateral onto better teams...
I would network hard and keep an eye out for open roles. Keep developing those banking skills.
Thanks. Can you elaborate what the "banking" skills would be?
If you're given the chance to interview on a banking team they may put a higher emphasis on the technical skills like DCFs, multiples, capital structure, etc. This could be especially true if it's a coverage group you don't have much connection to (e.g. tech coverage if you have never known much about the industry). Knowing the technical skills is the easiest way to make it clear you can add value on the team.
Becoming pigeonholed shouldn't be a concern of yours - you literally just graduated and joined the workforce. Pigeonholing wouldn't apply to you lateraling to become an IBD analyst until you're up for promotion to associate (i.e., 2 years down the road, at least).
Thanks. Ideally when would be a good time to leave?
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