What Type Of Person Thrives In Investment Banking According To An Investment Banking Associate At A Middle Market Investment Bank
Jonathan, an Investment Banking Associate, believes success in investment banking, like many industries, depends on "motivated individuals" willing to work hard and climb the hierarchy. At the highest levels, strong relationship-building skills are crucial, as directors and managing directors "maintain relationships with so many different parties," requiring extensive networking and client service.
Motivated, Strong People Skills, Relationship-Oriented, Hardworking, Ambitious
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Jonathan Freeman
Investment Banking Associate
Middle Market Investment Bank
CWRU
UCSD Master of Finance, UCLA FTMBA
Economics
Finance (Banking, Fintech, Investing)
Finance
Student Athlete
Video Highlights
1. Individuals with diverse backgrounds and personalities can thrive.
2. Strong work ethic and ambition are key to advancement.
3. Exceptional relationship-building skills are crucial for senior roles.
Transcript
How would you describe people who typically thrive in this industry?
Wherever you go and whatever company you work for, you'll find people from all walks of life. They'll have different backgrounds, personalities, strengths, and weaknesses.
This is true in investment banking, which is an extreme career due to the hours involved. You'll encounter motivated individuals, but also all kinds of personalities, similar to other industries.
Common themes include people motivated to work hard and move up the hierarchy. If you're not motivated to take on more responsibility and potentially reach a director or managing director level, it's difficult.
Maintaining relationships with many different parties is crucial. These individuals travel extensively and speak with hundreds, if not thousands, of people annually.
They maintain relationships at all levels within companies, private equity firms, and with investors. At the director and managing director level, it's a relationship-based job.
To climb the ladder and become a managing director, you'll need strong people skills. It comes down to individuals willing to work hard and motivated to maintain relationships by helping others. This is likely similar across many client service industries.