I’m considering applying to Aegis Capital because I’m struggling to break into the bigger names. Is it worth doing a year or two at a smaller US boutique like that to build experience?
Smaller firms can be a good way to get real hands-on experience early on, especially if you're struggling to break into the larger names right away. Just make sure to do your homework on the specific team and the kind of deals they work on. Culture and training can vary a lot at boutiques.
Also, even if it’s not your long-term destination, spending a year or two building your technical skills and getting deal exposure can help you lateral later or pivot to other roles like PE, corp dev, or VC.
So yes, it can be worth it, just go in with eyes open.
Simon
Hey there,
I personally haven’t worked with Aegis, but starting at a smaller boutique can be a great way to gain experience and build your network. It might not have the big-name recognition, but it can still be a valuable step for your career. Just make sure it aligns with your long-term goals.
Let me know if you need any support on the way and wishing you much success!
Hey
Working at a smaller boutique like Aegis Capital can definitely offer valuable hands-on experience that might be harder to get at larger firms, especially early in your career. You’ll likely have more direct exposure to deals and client interactions, which can accelerate your learning and build practical skills. However, the trade-off is that the brand name and network might not carry the same weight as bigger bulge brackets, so you’ll need to be proactive in leveraging your experience to move forward.
If your goal is to eventually transition to a larger firm or a different area of finance, spending a couple of years at a boutique can be a smart stepping stone, provided you focus on building strong technical skills and relationships. Just make sure you understand the culture and workload upfront, as smaller firms can vary widely in their environment and resources.
