How To Become An Investment Banking Analyst In Demand

The typical investment banking analyst is a recent college graduate with a talent for investing. Investment banking teams rely on these analysts to assess various investment opportunities. These opportunities range from stocks to bonds to securities. As a student preparing to take on this role, you also need to have a clear understanding of debt and equity. Many corporations expect their analysts to assess their investment potential as well. Prepare to take on these tasks by reading this post on how to become an investment banking analyst.

Ensure The Job Is A Good Fit

Before you pursue a career in investment banking analysis, ensure that it is a good fit for you. Many students who enjoy investing in stocks and trading futures assume that this is a great position for them. While you can apply these skills to the job, the position is not for the average investor. It requires much longer work weeks than most other positions. Several investment analysts work 80 hours a week. In turn, many investment banking analysts struggle to maintain work-life balance. It can be difficult to make time for friends, family and hobbies with such a demanding role. Learn what is investment banking first. Then, weigh the pros and cons of the career before you pursue it. That way, you can be sure that you want to pursue a banking analysis job.

Complete Education Requirements

Students who decide that they truly want to become an investment banker need to get an education. To qualify for investment analyst positions, you need to attend an accredited college or university. There, earn a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant major. Most investment analysts get degrees in finance, accounting or business administration. Since employers prefer candidates with advanced computer skills, minoring in computer science can be beneficial as well. Select your college major wisely to prepare for the investment banking analyst responsibilities.

Apply For Internships

Next, apply for internships within the field. In order to become an investment banking analyst, you need relevant experience. Visit your college or university’s career services office. Ask your resources if they know of any opportunities in your desired field. Consider reaching out to your professors as well. Many professors who teach about the subject also know people working in investment banking positions. After you exhaust all connection possibilities, turn to the Internet to find internship opportunities. Apply to the positions that can give you insight into the work environment. You also want to work for a team that can teach you new skills. Choose an opportunity that opens doors to jobs in the future as well. Then, you can successfully become an analyst.

Use Your Experience To Find A Job

After you complete an internship and graduate with your Bachelor’s degree, find a job. Use your internship experience to prove that you qualify for open positions. Highlight the interpersonal skills that you gained from working in a similar environment. Explain how you are prepared to take on longer work weeks. Practice answering interview questions beforehand so you can respond properly. Focus on problem-solving and analytical reasoning questions. Many employers also question interviewees on investment risk analysis and banking business model comprehension. Use your past experience to show employers that you can fulfill the investment banking analyst duties properly.

Seek Licensing From The FINRA

Finally, seek licensing from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) to become an investment analyst. The FINRA provides licensing to individuals working within the securities industry. However, you need to work a full-time job in the field before you can receive certification. Most of the licenses that the FINRA provides need sponsorship from employers. Thus, finding the right position post-graduation is key to obtain beneficial licensing. Take this step to fulfill your dream of becoming an investment banking analyst.

You need more than a few investing skills to pursue a career in investment banking analysis. Before you begin this career path, determine whether the role is a good fit for you or not. If you decide to continue, earn your Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting or business administration. Then, apply for internships to gain experience in the field. Use that experience to find a job post-graduation. Lastly, ask your employer to sponsor you for licensing from the FINRA. The FINRA offers certification to professionals involved in securities fraud and other components within the industry. Follow this guide to become an investment banking analyst.