I think a lot of people on wso are so tunnel-visioned on banking and pe that we often forget that many, if not most people achieve success off the beaten path. For those of you who have been out of college for a while and are a bit deeper into your careers, what did the most successful people you know from uni do both after graduation and throughout their careers to become successful?
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Based on the most helpful WSO content, success often comes in many forms and isn't confined to traditional paths like banking or private equity. Here are some insights:
Non-Traditional Career Paths:
Many successful individuals took unconventional routes. For example, some transitioned into niche industries or entrepreneurial ventures. One user shared their journey from a sub-3.0 GPA in Political Science to becoming a development manager in real estate after a winding path of self-improvement and networking.
Networking and Alumni Connections:
Leveraging alumni networks and career fairs (e.g., NABA, ALPFA, ASCEND) has been a game-changer for many. Alumni often provide mentorship, share experiences, and even pass along resumes to hiring managers, opening doors to opportunities that might not be accessible otherwise.
Adaptability and Resilience:
Success stories often highlight the importance of adapting to setbacks. For instance, one professional reflected on how career failures and external shocks (like economic downturns) forced them to pivot and ultimately find greater success in unexpected roles.
Graduate Studies and Career Pivots:
Some of the most successful individuals pursued further education, such as MBAs or PhDs, to reinvent themselves. Others transitioned into roles that aligned better with their long-term goals, such as moving from consulting to leadership roles in boutique firms or even non-profit work.
Focus on Results and Efficiency:
In fields like corporate sales, success was achieved by honing skills, maximizing client-facing time, and focusing on results rather than grinding long hours. This approach allowed individuals to work smarter, not harder, and achieve financial and professional growth.
Luck and Timing:
Several contributors emphasized the role of luck and timing in their careers. For example, taking advantage of a hot lateral market or avoiding industries during hiring freezes played a significant role in their success.
Ultimately, the key takeaway is that success is highly personal and often involves a mix of strategic planning, adaptability, and leveraging available resources. While traditional paths like banking and PE are popular, many find fulfillment and success by forging their own unique journeys.
Sources: Comparison of College Athletes to Investment Banking, Q&A: From Corporate Finance to Corporate Strategy (Supply), Some thoughts about luck in your career, Finished 1st Year at HBS - Ask Me Anything (Q&A), Career Paths/Exit Opportunities
Created a dating app for a niche ethnic community (I know at least one couple who met on it, he did a good job marketing it as a place for serious dating and a decent alternative to solid apps like Hinge). Sold it for ~$50M. Started another company in a different field that's valued around ~$150M now. He worked at some social media startup for 2 years before going out on his own.
I think I know exactly who you're talking about lmao. I don't know him but I know people that do through the same fraternity. He was smart to capitalize on that market so early. I wish I did but I was a senior in highschool at the time he made it.
Yes, I think we're thinking of the same person haha.
The answer for me is universally entrepreneurship. The most successful people aren't working for W2s.
Started a VC backed company and sold it for $300M to a public tech company. Just started a new company and raised a $40M seed.
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