Considering Lateral into Sales (S&T) — Equity vs. Debt Products: Lifestyle, Comp, and WLB?

Hey everyone,

I’m currently an analyst doing slower-paced, more banking-style work, but I’ve been thinking about making a move into Sales within S&T. I’ve always wanted to be in a more market-facing and personable role, and the hours in S&Tdefinitely seem better suited to the kind of balance I’m looking for long-term.

I’m trying to get a clearer sense of what the day-to-day, lifestyle, and compensation actually look like in Sales, especially between Equity vs. Debt products. A few specific questions:

  • How different are the client interactions and learning curves between equity and fixed income sales?
  • What’s the typical work-life balance like compared to investment banking or trading?
  • How does compensation evolve over time in sales roles (analyst → associate → VP), and are there big differences between equity and credit desks?
  • Any desks that are particularly strong or growing right now?

Would also love to hear from anyone who’s made the banking → S&T switch — what skills actually helped you stand out, and how the transition played out.

Appreciate any insights

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