Banking is so f**king Sh**ty sometimes
Banking feels impossible to tolerate sometimes. It’s not even the work itself, it’s the constant politics that wear you down. I’m working under a senior associate who has a strong reputation in the group (good for her), but I recently promoted A2A I often feel like her personal assistant. She obsesses over minor things because I get it lol she’s known for being thorough in the group but I’m the one stuck spending hours scrubbing whatever non important work that seniors don’t give a fuck. What choice do I have? If she decides to throw me under the bus, I’m done. Meanwhile, she controls all the direct communication with seniors and it’s a matter of time before I got cut I’m sure because they think I’m not doing anything blah blah blah. At a bank / group that’s going through heavy attrition atm. The group was already tough for a woman to be in but look at the women in the group, just as toxic. Just fire me now lol.
It sounds like you're in a tough spot, and the combination of politics, micromanagement, and lack of recognition is taking its toll. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some strategies to navigate this situation:
Build Relationships Beyond the Associate:
If your senior associate is controlling communication with the higher-ups, find ways to subtly showcase your work to VPs or MDs. Volunteer for projects or tasks that allow you to interact with them directly. This can help them see your value and bypass any misrepresentation.
Document Your Work:
Keep a record of the tasks you’ve completed, especially the ones that go unnoticed. This can serve as evidence of your contributions if you ever need to defend yourself or highlight your efforts.
Proactive Communication:
Politely but assertively communicate with your associate about prioritization. For example, you could say, “I want to make sure I’m focusing on the most impactful tasks. Can we align on what’s critical versus what’s less urgent?”
Leverage the Attrition:
With heavy attrition in your group, you might have more leverage than you think. Banks in such situations often value those who stick around. Use this as an opportunity to position yourself as reliable and indispensable.
Thick Skin and Long-Term Perspective:
Toxic environments can be draining, but as some WSO threads suggest, banking teaches resilience. Focus on the bigger picture—whether it’s a promotion, a lateral move, or transitioning to the buyside. This is a stepping stone, not the endgame.
Consider a Neutral Conversation:
If the relationship with your associate is salvageable, try a one-on-one conversation in a neutral setting. Express your willingness to support her but also share your perspective on how certain dynamics are affecting your ability to perform optimally.
Explore Exit Options:
If the environment is truly unbearable, start networking discreetly and exploring lateral opportunities. Toxicity isn’t worth your mental health, and there are plenty of other firms or groups that might be a better fit.
Remember, you’re not alone in feeling this way—many analysts and associates have faced similar challenges. Keep your head up, focus on your goals, and don’t let the politics define your worth. You’ve got this!
Sources: My Associates Hate Me, How to manage bad 1st years?, How to deal with that associate??, Just missed out again...regretting my analyst experience
In the same spot - working with a team full of woman and it just feels like everyone is so passive aggressive / attention oriented. Worked with a team that was more balanced and while we still had shitty comments to turn, the guys / seniors at the top would be more detail oriented. Definitely a top down kind of thing
I really don't think this is a woman's issue; some associates are just like this. I have worked with a male associate who does the exact same thing; some people get off on claiming credit and gaining "visibility".
Reason why we need bi-directional reviews that are taken seriously. Nobody rewards an associate for unnecessarily grinding the juniors and it gets to a point where your professional development means learning how to effectively delegate and holistically review work to coach your juniors into improving performance. It just sounds like she’s a shitty micromanager who is failing to see the big picture
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