Some people make it to their career and lifestyle objectives, while others abandon their quest halfway through. All of these folks, however, get a peek at the dark side of their chosen profession
Unpredictable Fortunes
Investment banking (IB) is a never-ending party for a select few, according to Joseph Stone Capital. To others, it’s best a roller-coaster trip. As each trade or transaction, is dependent on circumstances, many of which are external, an exciting high is nearly always followed by a fall. A bargain can be made or broken by a movement in one of the parties’ minds or a change in their commercial situation. In the long run, there are also economic cycles and markets to worry about, with their ups and downs.
Salary
The biggest draw of IB for people seeking financial careers is the salary. However, pay in the IB profession fluctuates a lot, as they do with the peaks and valleys of the banking industry. Recruits sign up for uncertainty and instability since corporations hire heavily during the boom season and fire employees during the lean season.
Sustainability
Getting into IB is difficult, but keeping your job is complex, according to Joseph Stone Capital. You may be intelligent, have a good interview, and get hired. However, while on the job, you may discover that you are not a wizard and cannot do everything perfectly or always meet your organization’s expectations.
Tasks that Must be repeated
Junior bank analysts search for complex work, such as sophisticated analysis, when they first start. However, after six or eight months, individuals may discover that they are simply doing the same chores. Frequently, the client’s name is the only thing that changes. Then they reach a point when they no longer expect to learn anything new on the job.
Colleagues
In general, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a sea of overachievers who appear to be pushed by some supernatural, money-motivated force in IB. That’s OK, except that some of these people have large egos and are selfish and complex to work with, as many disillusioned investment bankers admit and complain anonymously about internet forums. You may think you’re ambitious, but after seeing how some of your coworkers look out for themselves, you’ll reconsider. You could become lost amongst all those Type-As.
Culture
The IB atmosphere does not promote a nurturing culture because of the abundance of go-getters and Type-A personalities. No one has time to coach or train you. You must be a self-starter and learn independently. Some institutions are looking for methods to keep their personnel pleased. A handful, for example, has implemented parental leave and a system that allows couples to take time off jointly. Other banks may have a culture with no sensitive HR management practices.
Work-life Balance is Crucial
It’s no secret that most i-bankers struggle to strike a good work-life balance. Weekend plans get frequently canceled, and live tasks may arrive one after the other, preventing you from re-planning. Longer holidays may remain a pipe dream for the time being. Finding “quality time” or any time for your life partner is equally important.