In July, I quit investment banking after just a year once my bonus hit my bank. I have been unable to land another job (obviously I haven't tried IB or PE)... I feel like I ruined my life by going into IB. If I had gone the corporate route post graduation, id be employed. I don't know if it's because I'm still unemployed, but I'm starting to wish I was back in IB... Not sure what to do career wise. Is anyone able to share advice?
| +25 | Whats the point in even trying to get into this industry | 5 | 8h |
| +24 | Thoughts on unseriously applying to jobs/interviewing? | 4 | 5d |
| +17 | Am I cooked? | 5 | 2d |
| +15 | Frustrations with Lateraling? | 1 | 3d |
| +9 | What Services Do Animation Outsourcing Companies Typically Offer? | 0 | 2d |
| +9 | Feeling Lost | 3 | 8h |
| Choosing between | 8 | 2h | |
| +9 | Final-Year with no offers | 4 | 9h |
| +9 | Interview Peocess for Lateral VP hire in IB | 2 | 6d |
| +9 | Senior Summer vibes | 1 | 5d |
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Based on the most helpful WSO content, it's not uncommon to feel a sense of regret or uncertainty after making a big career change, especially when it involves leaving a high-intensity field like investment banking. Here are some steps and considerations that might help you navigate through this challenging time:
Reflect on Your Decision: First, it's important to remember why you left investment banking in the first place. Was it the work-life balance, the nature of the work, or something else? Understanding your reasons can help clarify what you're truly looking for in your next role.
Broaden Your Search: If you haven't already, consider expanding your job search beyond the fields you've already ruled out. Many skills you've acquired in investment banking, such as financial modeling, analysis, and client management, are highly transferable to various industries and roles.
Networking: Leverage your network. Reach out to former colleagues, alumni from your school, or even professionals in the fields you're interested in. Networking can often open doors to opportunities that aren't advertised publicly.
Skill Development: Use this time to further develop your skills or acquire new ones that align with your career interests. Whether it's taking online courses, obtaining certifications, or even doing freelance work, these activities can make you a more attractive candidate.
Consider a Career Coach: Sometimes, having a professional to guide you through your career transition can be incredibly valuable. A career coach can offer personalized advice, help you identify opportunities, and even assist with resume and interview preparation.
Stay Positive and Persistent: Job searches can be long and challenging, especially in uncertain economic times. It's important to stay positive and keep pushing forward. Remember, every rejection is a step closer to the right opportunity.
Reflect on Your Long-Term Goals: Finally, take this time to really think about what you want in the long term. Sometimes, a step back can lead to a great leap forward in your career. Consider what industries, roles, and company cultures align with your values and career aspirations.
Remember, your career is a marathon, not a sprint. It's okay to take detours, and it's never too late to redirect your path towards something that fulfills you both professionally and personally.
Sources: Advice From an Advisor to Senior Wall Streeters, To Those Who's Had A Successful Career In CRE, What Advice Do You Have For Younger Generations?, Advice From an Advisor to Senior Wall Streeters, Job Advice?
Have you tried reaching out to your old team to see if you can come back?
I'd rather that be a closed door
You can’t find a job anywhere is finance? No way that’s true
Plenty of things to apply to but I haven’t been able land anything… I always get told they’re looking for someone with more experience
Is the job market that bad? I was always told that if you do IB you can do anything. And you become super valuable. Consulting? I mean you are competing with college kids, and I bet other IB firms will see a red flag if you dipped after first year. You would probably be good reaching out to alumni?
Why did you quit your IB gig before you could secure another job? I would never suggest voluntarily leaving your job without knowing what your next move is.
I was naive in thinking I'd be able to land something else relatively quickly and I was unbearably miserable.
Who told you to quit?
My bonus
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