5 Comments
 

To get back into high finance roles, here’s a structured approach based on the most helpful WSO content:

  1. Networking is Key:

    • Network relentlessly. High finance is a relationship-driven industry, and networking can open doors that your resume alone cannot.
    • Focus on building connections across all levels, not just senior bankers. Analysts and associates often play a significant role in recruiting.
    • Be creative in your networking efforts. Reach out to alumni, attend industry events, and leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your target roles.
  2. Master Your Technicals:

    • Brush up on your technical skills. Knowing your technicals "chapter and verse" is crucial to silence any skepticism about your abilities.
    • Study technical interview guides and practice extensively to ensure you’re prepared for any technical questions thrown your way.
  3. Craft a Strong Narrative:

    • Develop a compelling story about why you want to return to high finance. Highlight your previous experience, what you’ve learned during your time in corporate, and why you’re passionate about re-entering the industry.
    • Show how your corporate experience has added value to your skill set and how it positions you uniquely for high finance roles.
  4. Target Entry Points Strategically:

    • If you’re struggling to land a direct high finance role, consider roles that provide transaction experience, such as credit research, corporate banking, or FP&A. These can serve as stepping stones to your ultimate goal.
    • Alternatively, explore MBA programs if you’re open to further education. A top MBA can provide credibility and access to high finance recruiting pipelines.
  5. Stay Persistent:

    • Breaking back into high finance can be challenging, especially in a competitive job market. However, persistence is key. Keep networking, refining your skills, and applying to relevant roles.

By combining relentless networking, technical mastery, and a strong personal narrative, you can position yourself effectively to re-enter high finance.

Sources: Transitioning from tech to a serious finance job (yes, you read that right), graduated may 2019 and recently laid off first job, Ask CompBanker, Some Thoughts on Networking, Looking for Recruiting Advice

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 
Funniest

Given your thorough explanation of your background, strengths, and weaknesses, here is a step by step plan to get back into high finance:

1.

2.

3.

"If you always put limits on everything you do, physical or anything else, it will spread into your work and into your life. There are no limits. There are only plateaus, and you must not stay there, you must go beyond them." - Bruce Lee
 

Molestias officia itaque pariatur quos. Sed et voluptatum omnis aut. Quia dolores quisquam quia quibusdam et aliquid. Perspiciatis sapiente nulla necessitatibus neque quos fugiat eum.

Blanditiis quisquam atque laborum. In assumenda et itaque est adipisci sunt alias. Qui pariatur maiores repudiandae itaque sed ut neque. Neque dolores veritatis ratione ea commodi nihil amet. Ipsum nulla alias sit dolorum et. Omnis sapiente occaecati sint tempore officia ipsum blanditiis.

Voluptas necessitatibus accusantium laboriosam quia. Enim incidunt nihil atque est in delectus cum. Qui autem molestias molestiae sequi nulla. Placeat perspiciatis neque non ut aut iste. Quos asperiores saepe dolor quia at magnam fugit.

"If you always put limits on everything you do, physical or anything else, it will spread into your work and into your life. There are no limits. There are only plateaus, and you must not stay there, you must go beyond them." - Bruce Lee

Career Advancement Opportunities

October 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.4%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.9%
  • Guggenheim Partners 01 97.4%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

October 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.5%
  • Morgan Stanley 02 98.9%
  • Evercore 01 98.4%
  • Banco Santander 02 97.9%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.4%

Professional Growth Opportunities

October 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 98.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.9%
  • JPMorgan No 97.4%

Total Avg Compensation

October 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (16) $429
  • Associates (57) $264
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (28) $184
  • Intern/Summer Associate (16) $161
  • 1st Year Analyst (84) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (76) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
3
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
4
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
5
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
6
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
98.9
7
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
8
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
9
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
10
bolo up's picture
bolo up
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”