The Little Careers Book

XX Financial services jobs are jobs for life; once you’re in, it’s easy to stay in. XX You will earn enough to buy a Ferrari by age 25 and retire by age 35. XX You will enjoy long (boozy) lunches and have a generous expense account. ࢚࢚ You have to be a flexible, adaptable, resilient person who can cope with changing work circumstances and professional setbacks. ࢚࢚ There’s plenty of scope for travel, which can be good or bad depending on your viewpoint. ࢚࢚ Long hours and high stress are part of the job, particularly early in one’s career (first ten years); this is particularly true of investment banking. ࢚࢚ Because of work demands, which are often unpredictable, it is very difficult to keep up a sport or hobby to a serious level. ࢚࢚ If you are successful, financial rewards can be substantial (especially in investment banking), but the salaries and bonuses for most provide a comfortable living (despite media coverage of unwarranted excesses). MYTHS TRUTHS XX Bankers are duplicitous, type-A, ultra-aggressive, commission-hungry lone wolves. ࢚࢚ Being confident is a big asset, but arrogance (especially if based on social class, background or education) can hold back career progression. ࢚࢚ Honesty, diligence and integrity are valued personality traits. You need to build client trust; they earn your company money. ࢚࢚ Having professional contacts helps a lot, so being at ease and engaged in business networking opportunities is important. ࢚࢚ Good manners and humility go a very long way. ࢚࢚ The industry attracts a diverse range of people with all sorts of personalities, from the introverted and analytical, to the outgoing and sociable. ࢚࢚ Despite increased regulation, there remains room for entrepreneurialism. ࢚࢚ You must be able to form independent views and be comfortable speaking up. MYTHS TRUTHS REWARDS AND SACRIFICES PERSONALITY TRAITS