IDK how to date with this job...

I don't have the time, plain and simple. Dating apps take effort and energy, and I'm not out at bars or parties enough on weekends to make personal moves. Anyone else feel this way? If so, how are you dealing with it?

8 Comments
 
Most Helpful

If you’re a guy, my recommendation is you date a guy who’s also in finance. Much easier than swiping right on art girls on Hinge in Bushwick who don’t even know what MOIC is.

 

Balancing dating with the demands of an IB job is a challenge many face, but there are strategies to make it work. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some actionable tips:

  1. Maximize Your Free Time: Even with a packed schedule, you can carve out small windows for socializing. A quick coffee date, lunch, or even a short walk can be enough to connect with someone. As one user pointed out, "You can't grab a coffee for 20 minutes? Can't go out for lunch or dinner for an hour or so? Never? Well then you don't deserve to be dating."

  2. Leverage Serendipity: Increase your chances of meeting people by spending your limited free time in places where you're likely to encounter potential matches. Think gyms, yoga classes, volunteer events, or even hipster wine bars. These environments are more conducive to organic connections than late-night bars.

  3. Use Dating Apps Strategically: While dating apps can feel like a drain, they’re a practical tool for busy professionals. Focus on apps like Hinge or Bumble, which tend to attract people looking for meaningful connections. Avoid apps like Tinder if you're seeking something serious, as one WSO user noted, "If she’s on Tinder, she’s a whore." (A bit harsh, but the sentiment reflects the app's reputation for casual encounters.)

  4. Develop Yourself: If you feel like you’re not interesting outside of work, take steps to change that. Explore hobbies, read books, or engage in activities that excite you. This not only makes you more appealing but also gives you something to talk about beyond your job.

  5. Prioritize Fitness and Confidence: Hitting the gym and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can boost your confidence and energy levels, making it easier to put yourself out there. As one user shared, "Being in better shape will boost confidence. It’s a snowball effect."

  6. Plan Ahead: If your schedule is unpredictable, try to plan dates or social outings during quieter periods. Communicate your availability clearly to potential matches to manage expectations.

Ultimately, the key is to be intentional with your time and efforts. Even in a demanding career, small, consistent actions can lead to meaningful connections.

Sources: How do you manage dating / meeting women in IB?, Please help! - burnt out and depressed despite having my dream job and not sure how to fix it, Selfish Ask for Help in Situation, IB + Long Distance Relationship, I'm lonely

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

"That's what the money's for." 

What do you think there are so many balding, ponchy guys in finance on their second or third wives? (who totally don't hate them) 

Commercial Real Estate Developer
 

Dating apps take effort and energy, and I'm not out at bars or parties enough on weekends to make personal moves.

You can always try dating men instead! 

 

If you think dating apps require effort or energy maybe you're just a bit of a loser and aren't ready to date anyone? Seriously how hard is it to swipe on a phone and text lol 

"If you don't have any enemies in life you have never stood up for anything" - Winston Churchill | "It's a testament to the sheer belligerence of the profession that people would rather argue about the 'risk-adjusted returns' of using inferior tooth cleaning methods." - kellycriterion
 

Qui assumenda sunt ut totam ut et dolorem. Qui recusandae ipsum iusto voluptate a adipisci itaque. Rerum numquam quis autem non at aliquid eos. Quis expedita quis quam. Ducimus sint iure maxime omnis eum minus.

Odio omnis dolor velit ipsa aut veniam quasi. Autem velit alias rerum natus accusantium provident repellat. Enim temporibus eos maiores voluptas suscipit maxime. Eos voluptatem id repudiandae ut sit. Est ipsum qui dolore rerum. Sit iusto sint dolorum tempora voluptatem.

Career Advancement Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.8%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.2%
  • Guggenheim Partners 01 97.7%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Morgan Stanley 01 98.8%
  • Evercore 01 98.2%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.6%
  • Banco Santander 01 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Evercore No 98.8%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 98.2%
  • JPMorgan No 97.7%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (14) $434
  • Associates (43) $259
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (22) $179
  • Intern/Summer Associate (13) $156
  • 1st Year Analyst (75) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (66) $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

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
3
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
4
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
5
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
98.9
6
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
7
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
8
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
9
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
10
bolo up's picture
bolo up
98.8
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...”