How to Become a Investment Banker

Investment bankers advise clients on how they can protect and grow their financial assets. They typically are expected to develop, present and implement wealth-building strategies for clients, but investment bankers also perform other duties, such as issuing bonds or arranging for stocks to go public.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Determine if you have the skills needed to become an investment banker. In addition to being good in math, you also should have good analytical and sales skills and be able to communicate clearly and work with people.

2. Earn a bachelor's degree from an accredited college in a finance-related field. Investment bankers typically hold bachelor's degrees in finance, economics, accounting or business administration.

3. Apply for an entry-level position as an analyst. Analysts prepare spreadsheets, keep schedules, answer client phone calls and provide support for the associates, who work directly with clients and prepare and implement their financial strategies.

4. Earn a Master of Business Administration (MBA). Firms require that you hold an MBA from an accredited university before you can be considered for an associate position.

5. Choose one or two industries or financial areas you'd like to focus on and do your homework. There are many specialized fields in finance, and you should be able to impress an interviewer with your knowledge of the areas in which you're applying.

6. Apply for open associates positions in your selected areas of expertise. The New York Times classifieds and the job board on a Bloomberg terminal are good places to start.

References

• Princeton Review

Resources

• Indeed.com

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