I need advice - RE Credit analyst
I’m about five months into an analyst role at a real estate credit shop, and I’m honestly not sure how I feel about the job right now.
The head originator on my team isn’t in my office, so we don’t talk much day-to-day. Most of what I do feels pretty admin-heavy (tracking docs, updating internal systems, etc.), and I don’t get much guidance or feedback. It’s hard to tell if I’m actually learning or just staying busy.
Even though I’ve been told I’m doing good work, I feel like I’m not developing or getting the kind of exposure I expected when I started. Some weeks, like this one, I have big pockets of downtime where I’m bored out of my mind just trying to find things to do or ways to be useful. It’s frustrating because I want to be engaged and learning, but there just isn’t much direction or structure.
With year-end reviews coming up, I’m trying to figure out the best way to handle it. I technically report to the MD, who runs our group and does reviews, but the head originator is who I work with most closely. Should I:
• Bring up how I’ve been feeling and ask for more feedback/responsibility during my year-end with the MD,
• Talk directly to the originator (even though we don’t have a ton of facetime), or
• Just keep my head down and wait until I’ve been here longer before saying anything?
Not trying to sound ungrateful ,I know I’m early in my career and there’s a learning curve, but I’m just not sure if this lack of structure and development is normal or something I should address sooner rather than later.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s how you can approach your situation strategically:
Bring it up during your year-end review with the MD:
Year-end reviews are the perfect opportunity to discuss your concerns in a constructive way. Frame your feedback positively—emphasize your eagerness to learn and contribute more meaningfully. For example, you could say:
"I really appreciate the opportunity to be part of this team and the feedback I’ve received so far. I’d love to take on more responsibility or get involved in projects that would help me develop my skills further. Are there areas where I could add more value or take on additional challenges?"
This approach shows initiative without coming across as overly critical.
Engage with the head originator directly:
Even though you don’t have much facetime, it’s worth reaching out to the originator to build rapport and seek guidance. A simple email or message like:
"I’d love to get your perspective on how I can better support the team and grow in my role. Are there any specific areas or projects where I could contribute more?"
This not only shows proactiveness but also opens the door for more meaningful interactions.
Don’t just keep your head down:
While it’s tempting to wait it out, addressing your concerns sooner rather than later is key. Lack of structure and development can lead to stagnation, and it’s better to take control of your growth early. However, balance is important—be patient and realistic about the learning curve, but don’t let your concerns fester.
Use downtime wisely:
During slow periods, focus on self-improvement. For example:
Set clear goals for the next year:
During your review, ask for specific goals or milestones to work toward. This will give you a clearer sense of direction and help you measure your progress.
Remember, many WSO threads highlight that early roles in CRE can feel admin-heavy, but they’re also foundational. By taking initiative and seeking feedback, you can turn this into a valuable learning experience.
Sources: Unemployed and living in parents' basement, losing hope, Help. Feeling Lost, Selfish Ask for Help in Situation, Q&A - Commercial Banking Credit Risk SVP in Southeast USA
Sed fugiat sequi et est. Et rem corporis assumenda ut occaecati atque soluta et. Omnis rerum et libero nihil neque corporis. Exercitationem veniam nihil qui.
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