Working in the same IB as S/O, problematic?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, working in the same investment bank as your significant other, especially in a smaller office of around 40 people, can indeed present challenges, particularly when it comes to office politics, HR policies, and professional boundaries. Here are some key considerations:

1. Office Politics and Perception

• Office politics can be a significant factor in investment banking, as highlighted in WSO threads. Even if you and your boyfriend maintain professionalism, others in the office may perceive favoritism or conflicts of interest, especially if you end up working under him or on the same team.
• In smaller offices, where everyone knows each other, personal relationships are more visible, which can amplify scrutiny and gossip.

2. HR and Compliance Concerns

• Many firms have strict policies regarding relationships between employees, particularly when one person could potentially have authority over the other. If you could be staffed on his team or work under him temporarily, this might raise red flags with HR or compliance.
• Disclosure is often required in such situations, but even with transparency, some firms may prefer to avoid the potential complications altogether.

3. Professional Risks

• As noted in WSO discussions, being involved in office politics or perceived as part of a "situation" can harm your career progression. The example your boyfriend mentioned—where a couple was fired due to office politics—illustrates the potential risks.
• Even if you both handle the situation professionally, the perception of impropriety or favoritism could impact your reputation and rankings, which are critical in IB.

4. Alternative Options

• While the other middle-market bank may not align perfectly with your preferred vertical, it could offer a safer environment to build your career without the added complications of navigating a relationship in the same office.
• Consider whether the long-term benefits of working at the stronger firm outweigh the potential risks to both your relationship and career.

5. Manageability

• If you decide to proceed, maintaining strict professionalism is essential. Avoid discussing work-related matters outside the office, and ensure that any potential overlap in work is handled transparently and ethically.
• However, even with these precautions, the situation may still be challenging due to the nature of the industry and the dynamics of a small office.

Ultimately, while it is possible to manage such a situation, the risks—both personal and professional—are significant. Carefully weigh the potential benefits of working at the stronger firm against the complications it could introduce to your career and relationship.

Sources: Landed Your First Job? EXTREMELY Important Thread: Office Politics, Landed Your First Job? EXTREMELY Important Thread: Office Politics, Investment Bankers - Career Mistakes, Guide to Office Politics (Part I)