Preparing for entry-level roles in investment banking. Would love quick tips on which firms to target, key skills to build, and how to break in and grow. Thanks in advance!

Question

Hi everyone,

I’m a BBA graduate (Top 3 in batch, 3.7 GPA) and CFA Level 1 cleared, currently preparing for entry-level roles in investment banking. I’ve been actively building my skills through academic projects, financial modeling coursework, and certifications. Over the next 2–3 months, I want to focus on the most impactful steps to strengthen my profile and skill set.

I’d be very grateful for your thoughts on the following:

1. Target roles/firms: For someone with my background, would you suggest starting with boutique firms, mid-market banks, Big 4 corporate finance teams, or other entry routes to gain relevant IB exposure?

2. Skill-building: What 1–2 technical or analytical skills (e.g., Excel, financial modeling, valuation methods) proved most useful or differentiating for you or your peers when breaking into IB?

3. Breaking through & growing: What advice would you offer to break into this industry and continuously grow within it? Any additional suggestions on building excellence and staying ahead in such a demanding field would mean a lot.

Any input from your experience would be incredibly valuable - even a short note would be appreciated.

Answer 1

Hi there, sounds like you’re already putting a lot of the right pieces in place, which is great.

Target firms: Many people I’ve seen start with boutique or mid‑market banks or even Big 4 corporate finance teams to get that first deal exposure. Those roles can be excellent stepping stones into larger IB platforms later.
Skills: Solid Excel and financial modeling skills really stand out. Being quick and structured with valuations (DCF, comps) makes a big difference on the desk.
Breaking through & growing: Keep networking. Reach out to analysts and associates for insights, and stay close to market trends. Once in, focus on being reliable and curious; that reputation helps you get staffed on better deals and build experience fast.

Hope that helps a bit!

Wishing you all the best as you prepare!
Simon

Answer 2

You’re clearly putting in the work already, and that matters more than people sometimes realize. It’s great that you’ve got a solid academic base and are already building technical skills.

On target firms, I’d say start where you can get real hands-on exposure. Boutique and mid-market firms, or even Big 4 corporate finance teams, are great starting points if they give you a chance to work on live deals or modeling tasks. What counts is learning by doing.

In terms of skills, Excel and modeling are definitely key, but what really makes a difference is how quickly and clearly you can think through numbers and communicate your logic. Even being able to walk someone through a DCF or comps calmly and confidently makes a strong impression.

To break in and grow, keep showing up. Reach out to people, ask smart questions, and stay genuinely curious about deals and markets. Once you’re in, being reliable, proactive, and low-ego goes a long way. You don’t need to be perfect, just present, focused, and open to learning.

You’re already doing a lot right. Keep going! 😊🚀