16 Comments
 
  1. Don't take any job without getting paid.
  2. If you're not getting skills to do something you really want to in the future, then you're wasting time.
  3. Be networking your ass off right now. Use all this free time for sketching phone call in the middle of the day (be discreet)
  4. Focus on building modeling experience/resume experience outside of work. Buy a modeling self-study course, start studying for the CFA, or see if they'll pay for you to take accounting courses.
  5. Jump ship when you're ready and not a second later. LIfe's too short man.
 

I don't think it looks bad to switch into something else after one year. Especially if you've been networking and someone good comes up.

If you want to pursue MSF or MBA, it might look better to either 1) jump ship now and work a couple solid years in a new gig so you have some good recs, or 2) stick it out one more year just for recs at your current gig. It depends on timing when you want to go back to school. If soon, then probably not worth moving jobs now. But later, it might be better to jump ship quickly and establish relationships.

 
Best Response

I went through this recently. I graduated with a role in December, but landed an RE role in Jan. Realized within a month I wanted to go back into IB (Did a SA/Part-Time IB role before RE role). I networked with people when I could and was fortunate that I interviewed for and landed a solid MM IB role for FT 2013 class. As much as I worried about staying in RE role, it only was six months (if that), but you are never sure until you can land that next opportunity. I would say continue to networking and apply to roles you come across. Also, see if you may know someone who could push your resume for FT recruiting at an IB. All it takes is for someone to give you an interview opportunity and then it is up to you take it from there. Good Luck!!!

Authored by: Certified Corporate Development Professional - Director
 
JBanksohn

I went through this recently. I graduated with a role in December, but landed an RE role in Jan. Realized within a month I wanted to go back into IB (Did a SA/Part-Time IB role before RE role). I networked with people when I could and was fortunate that I interviewed for and landed a solid MM IB role for FT 2013 class. As much as I worried about staying in RE role, it only was six months (if that), but you are never sure until you can land that next opportunity. I would say continue to networking and apply to roles you come across. Also, see if you may know someone who could push your resume for FT recruiting at an IB. All it takes is for someone to give you an interview opportunity and then it is up to you take it from there. Good Luck!!!

JBanksohn, I remember reading your success story. Congrats on making the move.

I've been reaching out to MDs/VPs/Associates at boutiques and studying while at work/home. I'm just incredibly grateful that the paychecks (despite the dullness of MO work) are coming in, just in case.

 

Thanks for the Congrats. It is good to hear you are making the right moves in networking while also doing your best in current role. Keep pushing and you will make it!!!

Authored by: Certified Corporate Development Professional - Director
 

Thanks for the encouragement, fellow monkeys.

My family lives in NYC, hence why it's been a bit easier for me to hold onto most of my salary. However, they're pressuring me to stay at least 1 year here in this role (they think everything in finance is the same).

Of course I'm not listening to them, but how do you guys recommend I approach this? Should I make it known to people that I'm currently in MO or that I'm "unemployed"? I just don't want prospective firms to think that I'm a flake.

Thanks!

 

Hey now...

Under my tutelage, you will grow from boys to men. From men into gladiators. And from gladiators into SWANSONS.
 

Hey guys, just an update: I've been interviewing around, but most firms are giving me the thumbs up for only internship positions.

What do you recommend I do? Is it wise to quit a full-time position for internships (with very little chance of a full-time offer)?

 

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