IB isn’t for me, and I think S&T is for me
Currently a 2nd year analyst working at a non-BB balance sheet bank in coverage. I find the work interesting, and I’ve accepted that, as an analyst, the brunt of the mindless and menial work falls on me. I’m a junior. I get it. But thinking long-term, the idea of long hours, no “fully disconnected” vacations, a fucked WLB, honestly, at risk of sounding soft, triggers anxiety within me. I don’t want that life. Not to mention the personalities I’ve come across in IB, the hardos and ego and prestige whores, quite frankly, turn me off.
I’ve been exploring other avenues, and S&T has really caught my attention. Some of my favorite parts of the job are the client interaction and the macro focus aspects. I really believe I’d flourish in a sales role, and something like Cross asset or rates derivatives sales caught my attention. The problem is, I have 0 experience, no relevant internships, no math/CS background, so just really looking for guidance here. This past week I sent 30+ LinkedIn requests to chat to salespeople. Can anyone offer additional guidance, or just straight up tell me I’m wasting my time. Thank you all
PM me
Hey there, it sounds like you're in a bit of a pickle! But don't worry, you're not alone. Many people in the finance industry have been in your shoes, wondering if they're on the right path.
First off, it's great that you're taking the initiative to reach out to people in the S&T industry. Networking is key in this business, and you're doing the right thing by trying to learn from those who are already in the roles you're interested in.
As for your lack of experience and relevant background, don't let that discourage you. Yes, having a math/CS background can be beneficial in S&T, but it's not a hard requirement. What's more important is your ability to understand complex financial products and markets, and your ability to build strong relationships with clients.
In terms of transitioning from IB to S&T, it's definitely possible. I've seen it happen. You might have to start at a lower level than you're currently at, but if S&T is truly where your passion lies, it'll be worth it in the long run.
As for whether you're wasting your time, only you can answer that. If you're truly unhappy in IB and you think S&T is a better fit for you, then pursuing this path is definitely not a waste of time. It's your career and your happiness at stake, after all.
So keep networking, keep learning, and keep an open mind. You never know where your journey might take you. And remember, it's not about the destination, it's about the journey. So make sure you're enjoying the ride!
Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/trading/sales-in-st-dead-end-career-path-in-2020?customgpt=1, S&T to IBD?, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/should-i-pursue-st-or-ib?customgpt=1, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/trading/st-analyst-derivatives?customgpt=1
Do you think you'll need a MBA/MFin to make the switch or just start out from scratch on a desk w/o going back to school?
Prob try to get into a good financial engineering masters program
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