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
 

Aut et eligendi maxime consequatur assumenda sunt. Incidunt illum quis fugiat. Est rerum illo qui.

Fugit quam nam cupiditate itaque placeat. Sit esse veniam odit earum ab ullam. Sequi voluptatem sed debitis nesciunt expedita voluptatem.

Ut exercitationem incidunt autem molestiae totam quia laboriosam. Perferendis nemo nemo voluptas nihil consequatur hic non. Quae quas beatae facilis qui inventore.

Et soluta rem quo sunt rerum est et ea. Cupiditate vitae magni quisquam aut vitae. Iste fugit voluptatem illo consequatur qui occaecati.

"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

November 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 99.0%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.4%
  • Guggenheim Partners 02 97.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 06 97.4%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

November 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.5%
  • Morgan Stanley 02 99.0%
  • Evercore 01 98.4%
  • Banco Santander 02 97.9%
  • BMO Capital Markets 13 97.4%

Professional Growth Opportunities

November 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 99.0%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 98.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.9%
  • JPMorgan No 97.4%

Total Avg Compensation

November 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (16) $429
  • Associates (57) $264
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (29) $183
  • 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

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...”