What did you to get promoted?

Incoming associate at a large LO with a ~25% promotion rate to Analyst. In my program, the associate role is basically a support role to the entire sector (analysts and PMs) and was described as essentially "university for investing."

From those that have been able to secure to promotion from associate to analyst in one of these LO programs, what are some of the things you felt you did to stand out and make that jump to Analyst?

 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some strategies that individuals have used to stand out and secure a promotion from Associate to Analyst in large LO (Long Only) programs:

  1. Demonstrate Exceptional Performance: Consistently deliver high-quality work and go above and beyond your role as an associate. This means not only supporting the analysts and PMs effectively but also showing initiative by bringing new ideas or insights to the table.

  2. Build Strong Relationships: Forge strong connections with analysts and PMs. Being seen as a reliable and indispensable team member can make a significant difference when promotion opportunities arise.

  3. Showcase Analytical Skills: Even in a support role, find opportunities to demonstrate your analytical abilities. This could involve volunteering for projects that require deep dives into data or presenting your own research findings.

  4. Express Interest in Advancement: Communicate your desire to move up to an analyst position. Make sure your superiors are aware of your career goals so they can consider you when an opportunity comes up.

  5. Seek Feedback and Improve: Regularly ask for feedback on your performance and show that you are actively working to address any areas of improvement. This demonstrates your commitment to personal and professional growth.

  6. Learn Continuously: Treat the associate role as an "university for investing" by absorbing as much knowledge as possible. This learning mindset can help you develop the skills and expertise necessary to succeed as an analyst.

  7. Take Initiative: Don't wait for tasks to be assigned to you. Proactively look for ways to contribute to the team, whether it's through streamlining processes, conducting unsolicited research, or finding ways to improve efficiency.

  8. Be a Team Player: Collaborate well with others and be someone the team can rely on. Being a good team player can often be as important as individual achievements.

Remember, each organization may have its own specific criteria for promotion, so it's also important to understand the unique expectations and culture of your firm.

Sources: MBA vs direct promotion, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/equity-research/career-ladder-equity-research-vs-investment-banking-a-definitive-guide-part-3?customgpt=1, Incoming Associate - Advice, Q&A: Emerging markets investment analyst, Some Observations from an MD

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

Qui officiis dicta fugit quibusdam vel et aut. Alias fugit ipsa tempore facere sapiente. Et sit voluptatem repellendus ea. Velit consequuntur nemo ea ab. Est quis consequatur nisi. Voluptatem qui eveniet perferendis sit est nihil voluptas neque.

Voluptatem pariatur nesciunt architecto in unde quam suscipit. Fugiat labore nihil dolore aliquam eius eum sit. Similique placeat dolores vel eos necessitatibus fuga facilis aperiam. Tempora temporibus explicabo labore ut neque ut. Quam voluptate omnis vero voluptatum et rerum. Quidem iure saepe delectus ut deleniti.

Cum quia veritatis sed vitae id quis numquam. Laudantium corporis exercitationem et unde quasi. Et consequatur repudiandae nemo maiores.

Qui et totam velit sit. Quae ipsum et ut eaque libero sed. Repellat quidem inventore nobis eum praesentium et et iste. Est iste reprehenderit ullam ipsam fugit qui. Hic ea commodi eos perferendis est dolores. Nisi aut mollitia ducimus voluptatum iusto nemo laboriosam doloremque.

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...”