What else outside of finance / big corporate?

Hi everyone,

What other careers are there outside of finance / F500? I worked for just over a year in IB at a top BB (GS/JP/MS), then moved onto a family office. Prior to that, I had internships and roles in sales, trading, data. I interned at prop trading shops, private debt funds, big corporates and even international organizations (UN and others).

Nonetheless, I am now 26 and going through a quarter life crisis. I am really not sure on what to do and have left finance for the time being (with great recommendations, etc). I am planning to travel now to clear my head a bit but wanted to ask for advice? What other careers / paths / experiences would you recommend ? I am not necessarily seeking a high-comp per se but rather something that I enjoy on a daily (if possible, some prestige would be nice too). I obviously work very hard and I am fully flexible (lived in London, New York, Geneva and other countries too).

Any advice would be very appreciated !

Thanks

2 Comments

WSO Monkey Bot

O

3mo

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some alternative career paths and experiences you might consider outside of traditional finance or F500 roles:

1. Entrepreneurship

Starting your own business can be incredibly rewarding, offering both flexibility and the chance to work on something you're passionate about. Real entrepreneurship (beyond small businesses or contracting) can also provide prestige and financial upside if successful.

2. Tech Industry

Transitioning into tech roles like product management, business development, or even data analytics could be a great fit given your background. Tech offers exciting opportunities to work on innovative projects, and companies often value diverse experiences like yours.

3. Social Impact and Nonprofits

With your international experience (e.g., UN), you might explore roles in social enterprises, NGOs, or impact investing. These paths allow you to contribute to meaningful causes while leveraging your finance and analytical skills.

4. Consulting

If you enjoy problem-solving and working across industries, consulting could be a good fit. Boutique consulting firms or specialized practices (e.g., sustainability, strategy) might align with your interests.

5. Alternative Investments

Venture capital, private equity, or even niche areas like real estate investing could be worth exploring. These roles often combine finance with strategic thinking and exposure to innovative businesses.

6. Creative Industries

If you're looking for something completely different, consider roles in media, entertainment, or even luxury goods. These industries can offer prestige and a refreshing change of pace.

7. Education and Academia

Teaching, mentoring, or even pursuing further studies (e.g., an MBA or specialized master's) could help you reset and explore new opportunities.

8. Agriculture and Sustainability

As highlighted in WSO threads like "Tomato Jos," alternative careers in agriculture or sustainability-focused businesses can be fulfilling and offer unique leadership challenges.

9. Travel and Exploration

Taking time to travel and reflect is a great idea. You might also consider roles that combine travel with work, such as international development, consulting, or even remote-friendly startups.

10. Corporate Strategy or Internal Innovation

If you still want to leverage your corporate experience, roles in corporate strategy, innovation labs, or intrapreneurship within companies could provide a mix of stability and creativity.

Ultimately, the best path depends on your interests, values, and long-term goals. Use your travel time to explore what excites you most and network with people in industries you're curious about.

Sources: Tech As An Alternative to Finance, Tech As An Alternative to Finance, Lesser known MBA career options? Looking for advice on what to do post-HBS., Tomato Jos: The “Extra” Alternative Career for Top MBA Grads

Reply

Quote

Report

Other

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

IB

Analyst 1 in IB - Cov

3mo

Rerum ipsam est totam molestiae cupiditate quas ipsam officia. Tenetur voluptas error corporis voluptatum qui ea. Quae sapiente voluptas tempora et. Voluptatem eligendi explicabo et culpa. Consequatur porro eveniet voluptatem maiores rem voluptatem. Temporibus accusantium fugit veritatis.

Pariatur quis eveniet pariatur quod et delectus aut illum. Vero aut et nobis aliquid autem. Hic officiis ut aut id mollitia.

Quis possimus quo sed soluta sed. Qui reprehenderit cumque aperiam sed ut excepturi non ipsa. Amet fugit maxime repellat et odit.

+20	Everyone here is fighting over IB seats while ignoring the most underrated way into the industry. Ten years in middle office, ask me anything.	5	2d
+19	I suck at coffee chats.	5	1d
+10	Buy-side (~15 yrs) trying to pivot into investor relations — how would you play it?	3	3d
+9	Can I put case studies in my CV	3	2d
+9	UK spring scheme advice for a humanities student going to a target	1	1d
+9	Integrated Master Of Arts in Law for Spring Week	1	14h
+6	How long are your interview processes?	1	5d
+6	Returning back to New York in this job market?	1	4d

1	redever	99.2
2	kanon	99.0
3	Secyh62	99.0
4	BankonBanking	99.0
5	dosk17	98.9
6	GameTheory	98.9
7	DrApeman	98.9
8	CompBanker	98.9
9	Betsy Massar	98.9
10	numi	98.8

Elite Career Bootcamp. Top Job Offer Guaranteed.

Elite Career Bootcamp. Top Job Offer Guaranteed.