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Dealing with a non-meritocratic workplace can be frustrating, especially when it directly impacts your growth. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some actionable steps to consider:

1. Assess the Long-Term Viability of Your Role

   • Reflect on whether the firm aligns with your career goals. If your contributions are consistently undervalued and growth opportunities are stunted, it might indicate a systemic issue within the organization.
   • Consider whether the firm's culture and leadership prioritize meritocracy or if this is a recurring pattern.

2. Evaluate Your Current Position

   • Quantify your learning experience, the stability of the fund, and the quality of the team. Ask yourself: Is the lack of meritocracy a temporary issue, or is it ingrained in the firm's structure?
   • If you feel your contributions are capped due to the experience gap or internal politics, it might be time to explore other opportunities.

3. Strategic Networking

   • Networking is crucial in the buy-side industry. Use your connections to gauge the market and identify firms with a stronger meritocratic culture.
   • Share your resume with trusted headhunters and specify your criteria for a new role. Ensure they don’t share your resume without your consent.

4. Focus on Your Value Proposition

   • Continue producing high-quality work and document your contributions. This will not only help you build a strong case internally but also serve as leverage when exploring external opportunities.
   • If possible, seek feedback from your PM or senior analysts to understand how your work is perceived and whether there’s room for improvement.

5. Consider the People Factor

   • As highlighted in WSO threads, the people you work with are critical. If the leadership or team dynamics are not conducive to your growth, it might be worth considering a move.
   • Look for teams where the founder or leadership values teaching, process, and investment acumen.

6. Plan Your Exit Strategy (If Necessary)

   • If the situation seems irreparable, start preparing for a transition. Target funds or firms that align with your investment philosophy, offer stability, and have a reputation for rewarding performance.
   • Be open to taking a step down in title or pay if it means joining a team with better long-term prospects.

Ultimately, if the lack of meritocracy is hindering your career progression and personal fulfillment, it may be time to explore other opportunities. As one WSO thread suggests, "Going to a fast-growing fund and sticking it out till the end is literally the most common way I've seen people rise to the top."

Sources: Life decisions...buy-side equity analyst, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/private-equity/where-is-the-industry-going-for-young-professionals?customgpt=1, Q&A and Yet Another Post On How To Break Into The Buy-side, Q&A: Buyside women, A2A - what has been your experience ?