What would you do?

Currently contemplating two offers and would appreciate any insight from people...

Offer 1: T1 City (NYC/SF/Boston/Chicago) probably ~$160K all-in. Hours 70-80. Farther from family and friends. Probably wider variety of opportunities to jump to, but would need to put in a few years. 

Offer  2: Also T1 City (NYC/SF/Boston/Chicago) probably ~$120K all-in. Better hours, likely 50-60. Closer to family and friends. Likely less opportunities to jump to, but higher/quicker chance for internal mobility. Not sure what future comp progression would look like though. 

12 Comments
 

If this is banking probably comes down to whether on not you’d want to exit.

I think having a life is more important than making money, and 120k all in w the ability to ride in the ranks seems like a good deal

 

OP here. Forgot to mention that second opportunity isn't IB. Investing role, just a bit worried that it isn't technical enough. 

 

160k all in vs 120k all in; I will feel the difference of the 40k. For starting with no exp I would take the 160k because I always tend to look upwards in the near future. If I am 160k now, I will want to look towards 200k next gig. If I was 120k then I would look towards 150-160k as a realistic jump. Since its' T1 city then the more money I earn the more comfortable I can live/save there due to HCOL.

 

People are always gonna say take the comp/brand name when you start your career - and they are probably right. You are building the foundations of your career and have the rest of your life to find a lot cushy role near family.

However, in this day and age, no one will fault you for choosing role 2. I would even pick role 2 if I were in your shoes. It’s nice having time outside of work (if you are being productive with it) as well as being near family. After tax, the 40k difference may not seem as large as you think it is.

 

You make a good point. Though it feels like a huge decision, I have a lot of time ahead of me to pivot if needed. 

 
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