So many qualified applicants for so little jobs?

Just come off a post made 4 years ago saying the LSE basically guarantees any front office job if you are studying a non-joke subject (Finance/Accounting/Econ/Maths/Data Science or one of those as a dual degree) and put in the effort.

Looking around LinkedIn, it seems that there are 100s if not 1000s of LSE students with strong backgrounds looking to break into (mainly) IB. This doesn't even account for the other targets in the UK, let alone the semi-targets, let alone the whole of Europe.

Do these students have a solid chance, or is it mainly down to luck seeing which qualified applicant gets the role? I know finance is big, but EVERYBODY seems to be an 'Aspiring Banker' now.

And from a student POV, is it basically just apply for everything and take what you are given, or do you actually have the opportunity to 'choose' which area you want to work in?

3 Comments
 

It's true that there are many qualified applicants vying for a limited number of roles in investment banking, especially from prestigious institutions like LSE. However, it's not just about luck. Here are a few things to consider:

  1. Networking: It's crucial to build relationships within the industry. This can help you stand out from the crowd and potentially lead to opportunities that aren't widely advertised.

  2. Experience: Having relevant internships or work experience can give you an edge. It shows that you're not only interested in the field, but also have some practical knowledge and skills.

  3. Resilience: The recruitment process can be tough and rejections are common. It's important to stay resilient, learn from each experience and keep trying.

  4. Specialization: While it's good to keep an open mind and apply broadly, having a clear idea of the area you want to work in can be beneficial. It allows you to tailor your applications and interview responses more effectively.

Remember, everyone's journey is unique. Some may land a role straight away, while others may take a more winding path. The key is to stay focused, keep learning and never give up.

Sources: International Student - Chance of getting an IBD internship in London?, European Master in Finance programmes (pre-experience), Resilience in the face of rejection, Intro to Investment Banking

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