Five Things Not to Do on Your I-Banking Internship

5. Be Late

Coming in late is the worst disservice a  summer analyst can do to his career. You must be the first person to come in, in the morning and the last one to leave in the evening. Also make your presence felt greet people as they come in appear busy through the day especially evenings. Tell people how much work you plan to put in before leaving for home. Project a Busy image.

4. Crib

No one likes a cry baby! No matter what, absolutely do not whine. If your work sucks, your boss is mean or you are homesick, just grin and bear it. There were times I would be cursing people in my mind but I would put in a smile and even say ‘Thank You’! Even if you have to run errands such as ordering breakfast/lunch or make coffee for your boss be at your most congenial self.

3. Submit Work with Errors

Apart from coming in and not crying you are also expected to work! Make sure you double check what you submit. Do not rush to your MD for clarifications all the time. Make good use of all the Analysts, Associates and VPs around you in that order. Most of them are the smartest people around and would be ready to help you. Mail them your query before you approach them. Even phone chats with the friendlier ones is a great option because physically going to their desks might disturb their rhythm during the trading hours. This is not to say that do not reach out to other people, exercise your judgment, try to be sensitive what would be suitable when.

2. Get Drunk

Ok its important to bond with people on your desk and others as well. My desk regularly took me out for breakfasts, lunches and even evening snacks. Be as energetic as possible. Always say yes to any such suggestions! Make it a point to grab a beer or two with your team. Drink heartily it reminds them of when they were young, do anything but DON’T GET DRUNK. I suppose all interns would be tested on this, not once but many times over. Clear this one to prove that your tongue doesn’t loosen with a few drinks and are a man (or woman) who can be trusted.

1. Not Circulate

The worst thing that you can do is to not build connections. I Banking is much more fluid than it ever was. Nobody is secure including your boss. You might be the blue eyed boy at your desk, but what would you do if the entire desk was to be dissolved. Seek out people who would be friendly to you. Establish strong ties. Trust me you’ll need them.

All the Very Best !

~The author of this article has worked for bulge bracket I-Banks besides having an MBA from a top College

Related Read: 10 Simple Tips to crack CFA Level 1