How to Become a High-End Investment Banker
Becoming an investment banker requires dedication, a serious work ethic, a comprehensive education, skills and experience. Rising to the top of the investment banking industry and securing a high-end job is not an easy task. Those who wish to become high-end investment bankers must first educate themselves and then break into the industry. They can expect years of hard work and networking before that promotion to a high-end investment banker job becomes available.
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Instructions
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Earn your undergraduate degree and obtain a Master's of Business Administration graduate degree. While some entry-level jobs are available with an undergraduate degree, an MBA is essential for those who wish to become high-end investment bankers. Focus on finance during undergraduate and MBA studies, and earn a specialized MBA in finance, if possible.
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Network with fellow students and maintain contact with them for future job opportunities. Many students get their foot in the door of the financial services industry based on whom they know. Establishing and maintaining relationships with your classmates, some of whom will be the next generation of investment bankers, is helpful after you graduate. Establish relationships and network with others in the banking industry as well. Attend trade events and school-sponsored events featuring these professionals. Reconnect with them periodically throughout your education; the day will soon approach where you might need help securing a job.
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Secure an internship position, during school or soon after you graduate. Many firms recruit their full-time staff from their pool of interns. Internships are often paid positions, which make them even more attractive. For many investment bankers, an internship with a firm is the best chance for entry into the world of investment banking.
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Work hard and continue to network once you secure a full-time, entry-level job at an investment firm or bank. Firms differ on how they promote employees and have specific requirements for reaching the next rung on the career ladder. Working hard, committing to long hours and continuing to reach out to financial professionals are some of the best ways to make yourself known at your company and attract attention from other firms.
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Secure an associate position. Within many investment banks, the associate level is somewhere in the middle of the career ladder. As an entry-level employee, always have your eye on associate-level positions. These positions are stepping-stones to high-end jobs. Those who secure an associate position can expect to work four to five years at the associate level before even receiving consideration for high-end, executive level investment banking positions. When that day comes, if you've shown consistent results, a stellar work ethic and know the right people, you may receive a promotion to a high-end investment banking position.
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