This industry is cut throat and I haven’t even started

Right now I have two full-time offers in WM- #1 and #2. #1 offer is better because I'll be working with corporate/institutional clients, which will make me slightly more attractive when trying to make my move to IB/AM upon graduation this December. They also said an interview in their IB/AM division is possible. #2 only does WM so #1 is the offer I want. Passed onboarding at #2 they want to start me Next week, #1 can't start me until August. comp, location, benefit factors are the same.I need to start work ASAP to pay my bills, I told #1 that and they told me this: Proceed w #2 and work for 2 months then start working for them in august. Directing manager said it was fine, I checked my offer letter at #2 and see nothing addressing this unlawful or contingent. I think the plan is sort of diabolical but from what I've read on here, most things in this industry are.This is my only option right now so I plan on following through with it. I'm wondering if the community sees any flaws or can offer me any advice/tips along this journey. I've only been able to get in contact with the firms talent acquistiioners (on both ends) and they seem to be oblivious.this is my first post, please cut me some slack I'll get better as time rolls on

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I'm sure they're not being sarcastic, yes. I talked to the woman on the phone and her tone was serious.

Something I didn't mention above was the location is Phoenix, AZ. I'm assuming talent is more scarce out here. I obtained my SIE on my own while in school, I think that's making me more desirable especially for the location.

 

I would definitely not do that and agree it sounds like they were being sarcastic. It's going to be a huge question mark down the road why you worked somewhere for 2 months...

Also you will likely end up owing ML a significant amount of money. If they paid for your training materials and exams (ballpark $1k per exam) they will ask for that money back if you leave immediately. Additionally, any signing bonus you get will be clawed back pre-tax - i.e. if you have a $10k signing bonus, they will want $14k back, and the $4k difference you will get back next spring when you file your taxes. MS will only cover these expenses if you're lateraling, not in your situation.

IMO you're better off getting a retail job for the summer than being dubious like this, and as mentioned above this may put you in an even worse financial decision

 
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