How much do you have to like the job? Can it just be a job you punch in and out of?

Background is PE and now interviewing at a top LO. I don't actually like looking at stocks that much, it kind of stresses me out because I don't get all the accounting, was at a growthy buyout place (think like $200-$500mm EV growing 25-30% EBITDA from 10-40%) so never got too in the weeds past cash flow and debt. However doing publics is like this weird beast I don't understand, all the metrics don't really translate from LBOs. Maybe just laziness or fear of learning something new. Anyway I really want to do late stage venture but that job market is fried to shit. Wondering if I should take my superday at the LO. It would be kind of tough to disappear for a day. But if the consensus is "it's a good job and tolerable compared to any others just swallow your pride and a job is a job" then I know I should, but I just don't love looking at random ass stocks in random sectors. If I wasn't in investing I'd start a venture backed software startup.

 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, it seems like you're in a bit of a pickle. You're not alone in this, many people find themselves in a similar situation. It's important to remember that it's okay not to love every aspect of your job. However, it's equally important to not be in a position where you're constantly stressed or unhappy.

If you're not passionate about looking at stocks and it stresses you out, it might not be the best fit for you. It's not just about swallowing your pride and accepting any job, it's about finding something that aligns with your skills, interests, and long-term goals.

On the other hand, it's also important to consider the opportunities that this role might open up for you in the future. It could be a stepping stone to something you're more interested in, like late-stage venture.

In terms of the superday, it might be worth taking it just to keep your options open. You never know, you might end up liking it more than you think.

Remember, it's not just about finding a job, it's about finding the right job for you. So take your time, weigh your options, and make the decision that feels right for you. And remember, it's okay to not have all the answers right now. Sometimes, you just have to take a leap of faith and see where it leads you.

And hey, if you ever decide to start that venture-backed software startup, I'm sure you'll do great! You've got the experience and the drive, and that's half the battle. Good luck!

Sources: Post-MBA Recruiting At Top Asset Managers / LOs, beyond bored - can't even motivate to change jobs again, Losing "The Edge" Post-IB, Superday Related Advice

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 
Most Helpful

Sunt laboriosam incidunt vel voluptatibus aut illum dolorem. Non autem enim quis minus sequi natus. Qui repudiandae nihil cum. Sequi iste earum possimus repellat quaerat.

Career Advancement Opportunities

May 2024 Investment Banking

  • Jefferies & Company 02 99.4%
  • Lazard Freres No 98.8%
  • Harris Williams & Co. 25 98.3%
  • Goldman Sachs 17 97.7%
  • JPMorgan Chase 04 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

May 2024 Investment Banking

  • Harris Williams & Co. 18 99.4%
  • JPMorgan Chase 10 98.8%
  • Lazard Freres 05 98.3%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.7%
  • William Blair 03 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

May 2024 Investment Banking

  • Lazard Freres 01 99.4%
  • Jefferies & Company 02 98.8%
  • Goldman Sachs 17 98.3%
  • Moelis & Company 07 97.7%
  • JPMorgan Chase 05 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

May 2024 Investment Banking

  • Director/MD (5) $648
  • Vice President (21) $373
  • Associates (91) $259
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (14) $181
  • Intern/Summer Associate (33) $170
  • 2nd Year Analyst (68) $168
  • 1st Year Analyst (205) $159
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (146) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”