Future of Nontargets
Curious where this forum thinks the future of IB recruiting is going to go.
Seems a lot of banks are realizing that post-affirmative action, school name is no longer the best way to screen candidates. Well-known, but non-target schools are placing pretty well in SA2025, and seems like this trend is going to continue.
Don't think this will hold true for the true top seats (PJT RX/Q etc.) as they can get the cream of the crop from targets which is always going to be top tier, but seems like the GS/MS/JP's of the world might change their minds.
Nobody cares, stupid post
Then why comment?
The landscape of investment banking (IB) recruiting is indeed evolving, reflecting broader changes in the industry and society. The shift towards a more inclusive and diverse recruitment strategy is becoming apparent, with banks increasingly recognizing the value of talent from a wider range of backgrounds, including those from well-known, but non-target schools. This trend is likely to continue as the industry seeks to diversify its workforce and tap into a broader pool of talent.
However, it's important to note that the most prestigious positions within the industry, such as those at PJT Partners in Restructuring (PJT RX) or similar top-tier roles, may still predominantly draw from target schools. These firms have the luxury of selecting candidates from the very top of an already elite pool, where the brand of one's education can still play a significant role.
For the larger banks like Goldman Sachs (GS), Morgan Stanley (MS), and J.P. Morgan (JP), there's a growing openness to candidates from non-target schools who demonstrate exceptional skills, experiences, and potential. This shift is partly driven by the recognition that talent and capability are not solely confined to target schools and that diversity in thought and background can contribute significantly to a firm's success.
Candidates from non-target schools should focus on distinguishing themselves through outstanding academic performance, relevant internships, strong networking skills, and a clear demonstration of their passion for investment banking. Leveraging platforms like Wall Street Oasis for insights, networking opportunities, and resources can also be invaluable in navigating the recruitment process and maximizing one's chances of breaking into the industry.
In summary, while the prestige of target schools will likely continue to hold sway in certain top-tier IB roles, the overall trend towards more inclusive recruiting practices is expected to open up more opportunities for talented individuals from non-target schools, especially at large, well-known banks.
Sources: Future of Non-Target Recruiting, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/m7-ib-associate-full-time-recruiting?customgpt=1, A target student's observations from the 2022 IB Recruitment Cycle, IB Associate Recruiting Will Be Virtual (for Summer 2021), 2019 Full Time IB Recruiting
Vel animi est voluptas assumenda. Ad eaque accusantium ut a corrupti occaecati quam voluptatem. A commodi est est consequatur cupiditate.
A molestiae ex dolores rerum eum. Suscipit vel est velit debitis molestiae nesciunt.
In voluptas exercitationem voluptatem corrupti. Minima pariatur rerum excepturi ut explicabo molestiae. Nulla eos quasi et et minus sint. Cupiditate et reiciendis aut placeat inventore.
Corrupti nihil eveniet enim sint ullam assumenda. Vel deserunt alias illum incidunt. Sapiente eum voluptas mollitia enim consectetur mollitia.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...